The latest model from David Hulse is of another piece of engineering history, Adam Heslop’s winding engine for the William Pit. It is in 1:16 scale and was first shown at the 2015 Midlands Model Engineering Exhibition.
Heslop was a true pioneer, patenting an engine in 1790 which led the way to the later compound engines. At the time his work was not known outside the Cumberland coal field, although it was patented at at time when he was living in Coalbrookdale to gain experience. The earliest engines were built at Seaton after he moved back there. Two brothers also worked at Seaton Ironworks (Barepot). He, his brothers, and others formed the Lowca Ironworks of Heslops, Johnson, Milward and Company. At least 15 engines were built there.
One Heslop engine survives. it was built around 1795 and was used at Kells Pit, Castlerigg Pit and finally Wreah Pit in 1837. It was dismantled in 1878 and taken to the Patent Office (now Science Museum) in London for storage. It could be re-assembled if a suitable building could be found.
