National Gazette

We hear from the town of Paterson, in New Jersey, that a mechanic of that place has invented a wheel to work by wind, in a horizontal position, which bids fair to become of great public utility; the construction, in most parts, differs materially from any hitherto attempted for this element, and is in all points applicable where wind, water, steam or horses are necessary. It is calculated to receive the wind without the least change in the position of the wheel, let it come from whatever point it may, which totally removes the objection to the European vertical wind-mills, which require turning or setting at every change of wind that takes place; and it is well known that nearly two thirds of the wind acting against the sails of one of these mills is totally lost in point of power, being exerted in a line of direction with the axis, while the construction of the horizontal wheel admits without the least diminution of power the whole force of the wind to act upon it, and from its capability of compression in a peculiar manner during its revolutions, nearly all counter resistance is done away, and this machine upon its horizontal principles, is fully equal to the European vertical wheels, with only one third of the same quantum of canvass; and in case of gusts or sudden squalls, the attending person, can in a moment, with the utmost ease throw it out of gear, and totally stop the wind from having the least effect upon the wheel, and consequently, prevent all those damages which at such times too frequently happen, to the very great detriment of the mill and injury of the owner.