| RefNo | MS/119/2/2 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from Charles James Buchanan Riddell, Toronto, Upper Canada to Humphrey Lloyd, Trinity College, Dublin |
| Date | 8 October 1839 |
| Description | Riddell informs Lloyd that he has had to postpone the building of the Toronto observatory until the spring. Riddell reports on the reasons for the delays in the building, and the difficulties he has had working with the Commanding Engineer, Colonel Oldfield. The Commanding Engineer did not send Riddell the necessary authority as requested. The site [Montreal] previously chosen by Riddell was not suitable for a magnetic observatory. According to Riddell a memorandum was sent by Colonel Oldfield stating that Riddell disapproved of the site chosen by him, and that the observatory should be built where Riddell wishes.
Riddell notes that this time last year the bay was frozen, and now there is no frost on the ground.
Riddell expresses his disappointment at the delay in the building., but he now has possession of a wooden barrack. Description of the building including dimensions, and work intended to be completed to occupy the magnetic instruments. One room either side of the same dimension will be left vacant, and the magnetometer will be 30 feet clear from moveable iron. Description of Riddell and detachments quarters. Riddell hopes that this temporary observatory will function well.
Discussion on the instrument’s arrival on 24th November. The bulb of the maximum thermometer is broken, and the minimum thermometer has broken components. All the instruments had to be removed during a gale of wind. Riddell notes the damage and broken instruments.
Riddell asks Lloyd if the magnetometer should be placed in a position that the deflecting bar when in use should be at right angles to the meridian. Discussion on Lloyd's formula.
Enquiry on the way Lloyd would like observations to be entered, as Riddell may enter his observations differently from the other observatories.
Plans for commencing the building works, and discussion on the materials to be used, in consideration of the weather.
Discussion on Lefroy’s letter to Riddell. Lefroy is about to arrive at St Helena. |
| Extent | 6p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| PhysicalDescription | Ink on paper |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA7327 | Riddell; Charles James Buchanan (1817 - 1903) | 1817 - 1903 |
| NA8252 | Lloyd; Humphrey (1800 - 1881) | 1800 - 1881 |