| RefNo | MS/257/1/359 |
| AltRefNo | Sa.359 |
| Previous numbers | ES1/53/359 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from Charles Chambers, Colaba Observatory [Mumbai] Bombay to Captain Hoskins |
| Date | 16 February 1871 |
| Description | Chambers acknowledges receiving the letter Geographical No. 1 dated 5th. Updates Hopskins regarding the organisation of a system for the collection, reduction, and discussion of accurate meteorological observations from various stations in [Mumbai] Bombay. Reference to the 1968 resolution from the government of India.
Discussion on the aims of meteorological observations. Remarks on the best means of carrying out meteorological observations in India. Chambers divides the meteorological character of a country under four separate headings. Discussions on the means necessary to achieve this objective, the staff needed to be employed, and details of maintaining a principal store office.
Details of meteorological observations taken at principal stations of the Royal Engineers in 1851, and 31 observatories were set up across the world as a result, as well as the admiralty establishing a system at four other stations, and the East India Company setting up 30 observatories in [India]. Discussion on the labour of computation and the immense number of observations recorded. Chambers discusses the role of the district controllers, and the directors of the observatories.
Based on his experience at Kew Observatory, Chambers suggests the general stores and testing office be placed under his superintendence at the Colaba Observatory. Reference to the meteorological reporters, system of inspection and general control of districts. Discusses meteorological observations more specifically in the [Mumbai] Bombay region as opposed to regarding India in its entirety. Refers to the transmission of results to the India office.
Chambers discusses his immense workload which affected his health. To show he has not been negligent in his duties Chambers includes a list of writings he has completed. Suggests that a full set of the [Mumbai] Bombay magnetical and meteorological observations from 1854 to 1864 should be placed in the library of the meteorological department in London.
Includes a precis of this report to ensure notice of important points are discussed in it. |
| Extent | 11p |
| Format | Typescript |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA2784 | Chambers; Charles (1834 - 1896) | 1834 - 1896 |