EVANS, Oliver (1755-1819). The Young Mill-Wright & Miller’s Guide. Philadelphia: for the author, 1795.

First edition of "the first American book on mills and milling machines and a landmark of early American technology" (Federal Hundred). Evans, who grew up working at his family's Delaware flour mill, designed and implemented a series of machines which greatly reduced the manpower necessary to operate a mill. "Millers were at first universally opposed to Evans' improvements. In 1795 he incorporated all of his innovations into this book. Written in a simple and straightforward style, with clear and detailed plates, the book soon revolutionized flour milling" (ibid). Evans later became America's first steam engineer. Evans 28644; Kress B2928; Federal Hundred 50.

Octavo (204 x 126mm). 26 engraved plates, 2 of which folding (title page extended at outer margin, some light spotting to plates). Contemporary calf/sheep (rebacked). Provenance: Wadsworth Athenaeum (inscription and blindstamps).