Mine Pumping in Agricola's Time and Later   By: Robert P. Multhauf (1919-2004)

In "Mine Pumping in Agricola's Time and Later," Robert P. Multhauf delves into the fascinating world of mine pumping and its history. This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the evolution of mining techniques and the significant role pumping played in this industry.

Multhauf starts the book by offering a comprehensive overview of mining during Agricola's time, a period that witnessed some of the earliest attempts at draining mines. He discusses the methods used by Agricola, a renowned German scholar and the author of the influential book "De Re Metallica," to remove water from underground mines. This section acts as a solid foundation for the subsequent chapters, setting the stage for the advancements and challenges faced by mine pumping throughout history.

One of the book's strengths lies in Multhauf's ability to present complex technical concepts in a way that is accessible to readers of various backgrounds. He manages to strike a balance between providing sufficient technical detail and avoiding overwhelming the reader with jargon. This makes the book an excellent choice for both experts in the field and those simply seeking to broaden their knowledge.

Furthermore, Multhauf's extensive research is evident throughout the book. He delves into a diverse array of sources, including historical documents, scientific papers, and previous research, to present a comprehensive picture of mine pumping throughout different time periods. While the author primarily focuses on European mining, he also touches on developments in other parts of the world, acknowledging the global nature of this industry.

Multhauf also highlights the impact of mine pumping on other industries, such as agriculture and infrastructure development. By discussing how mining techniques evolved over time, he underscores the interconnectedness of various fields and its importance for technological advancements in society.

However, one potential drawback of this book is its heavy focus on technical aspects, which might not appeal to readers seeking a purely historical narrative. Additionally, the lack of visuals, such as illustrations or diagrams, could make it challenging for some readers to grasp certain concepts.

Despite these minor shortcomings, "Mine Pumping in Agricola's Time and Later" is an impressive and informative work. Multhauf's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book an engaging read. It not only sheds light on the evolution of mine pumping but also offers valuable insights into the broader context of technological advancement and its impact on society.

First Page:

The habit of heavy reliance on a single source for the substance of the history of Medieval and Renaissance mining techniques in Europe has led to a rather drastic over simplification of that history, a condition which persists tenaciously in the recent accounts of Parsons, Wolf, and Bromehead.[1] Our preoccupation with Agricola, who has been well known to the English language public since the Hoovers' translation of 1912, seems to have inhibited the investigation of the development of the machines he describes so elegantly. More seriously, the opinion that mining techniques remained essentially the same for a century or two beyond his time appears to have hardened into a conviction... Continue reading book >>