Alachua Astronomy Club: FirstLight Tenth Year -- Broward 1997 December

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FirstLight is the official, monthly publication of the Alachua Astronomy Club (AAC),
Gainesville, Florida USA. Copyright © 1987-99. All rights reserved.

Introduction & Dedication

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1997

Tenth Anniversary Edition: From December 1997 FirstLight

Astronomy in Colonial America

by C.S. Broward
Long time AAC member Chuck Broward has an abiding interest in 18th Century history and participatory historical re-enactments. He is developing the persona of astronomer David Rittenhouse
When I am not playing electrical engineer, bike rider, or typical middle-aged male, I can often be found at a living history site pretending to be a 18th century soldier, enforcing the just and honorable laws of King George III. However, I recently started sneaking the ETX* and a pair of modern binoculars to events, because of the wonderful dark sky that is often a part of camping away from city lights.

I suddenly realized that I have the opportunity to develop a wonderful persona as an astronomer in the colonies! A bit of cursory study turned up two references—one in a marvelous book called the "Travels of William Bartram" first published in 1791, and another entitled "America’s Foremost Early Astronomer" found in the May 1995 issue of Sky and Telescope.

David Rittenhouse, 18th Century
American Astronomer

Bartram’s tale describes how a "caravan, consisting of surveyors, astronomers ... set forth from Augusta, Georgia to map land west of Georgia." Bartram provided this tidbit, but obviously was little interested in their efforts, rather focused on endless categorization of plants. Oh well.

The Sky and Telescope article provides a wealth of information about one David Rittenhouse—who produced some of the finest timepieces in the colonies in the late 1700's. He also was a maker of scientific and surveying instruments and produced several orreries, or models of the solar system that can still be seen today. But, according to the article, he is best remembered for his astronomical observing skills!

It is a shame that the remarkable Mr. Rittenhouse threw his lot in with those rebellious Americans.

So, meet the newest astronomer in the regions of East Florida! Disguised as my new 18th Century persona. (Ed., Is that "The Honorable C. S. Broward, Esquire?")

I have created imaginary correspondence with the remarkable Mr. Rittenhouse, and he, in turn, has forward my letters to William Herschel in England to discuss purchase of a suitable instrument for viewing with great clarity the wonders of the heavens. We have laid aside our political differences for the moment to pursue our mutual goals of advancing our knowledge of the stars. We are excited about performing observations from the most southern limits of the American colonies.

I personally am overjoyed at the possibility of putting aside weapons and turning my eyes to the skies.

So, if any of you AAC members can provide help and guidance to develop my new 18th Century image, perchance you could let me know!

*ETX A Meade ETX Astro Telescope (Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system, diameter = 90mm, focal length = 1250mm, f/13.8).

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