William A. Harris Steam Engine Co.

Builders of the Harris-Corliss Steam Engines: Works, Park and Promenade Streets. William. A. Harris, President and Treasurer.

      The improvements introduced in the construction of steam engines have secured a perfection which is as great, possibly, as can be obtained with our present knowledge, and unquestionably the best modern steam engine is the most perfect piece of mechanism which human ingenuity has evolved. This improvement has been a process of growth, as it is with the results of all human labor which accomplishes desirable ends, and in the future as in the past, no single individual can claim to have reached the highest possible perfection, since another may, with past achievements in mind, still further improve the work as he finds it. These facts are aptly illustrated in the widely celebrated HarrisCorliss steam engines made in this city, which combine all the valuable features of their predecessors and many improvements peculiar to themselves as well in general construction, besides which they are made of the very best materials and are invariably the product of superior workmanship. These engines are built in different forms, such as non-condensing, condensing and compound condensing, and among the many improvements embodied in their construction which made them the most perfect of their type are an entirely new and simple releasing gear, noiseless dash-pots, crosshead with the gibs located centrally over and under centre of connecting rod wrist, and are removable from the crosshead without disturbing it. Wrist is made of steel and also removable. Crank-pins enlarged, both as to length and diameter; increased surfaces in main bearings; new designs of bed-plate and pillow-blocks. All wearing surfaces lubricated from oil-cups that are stationary, whose sides are glass and have sight feeds. All the small parts are made interchangeable and are kept in stock for the convenience of repairs and filling orders for new work at short notice. These engines are made with Harris' patented improvements, in sizes ranging from 25 to 2,000-horse power, and they are to be found in active and satisfactory operation in all parts of the United States, Cuba, Mexico, and other foreign countries. The works of the company were erected in 1864, since which time they have been greatly enlarged; they are thoroughly equipped with machinery and tools invented and constructed specially for the uses of the business, and employment is here given to about three hundred skilled workmen. This enterprise was founded by Mr. Wm. A. Harris in 1864, since which time its growth has been commensurate with the perfection of its products and the energy, industry and progressive ideas of its projector. It is now one of the leading engine building establishments of the country, and its future attainments give every promise of greater proportions.

Information Sources

• The industrial advantages of Providence, R. I. page 155 by Jason P. McKinney 1889