EnigmaticBiker

http://docsouth.unc....lt/leconte.html

I reckon it's easier to buy it that leach the compost heap

In Switzerland part of the taxes were paid in nitre.

I found an extract (40 pages) from an old book entitled 'Endless amusement', online via P2P.

'A Complete system of pyrotechny'

Published: London, Thorp and Burch, and Thomas Boys [ca. 1820]

Message me and I'll e-mail you a copy in .pdf (~3.5 Mb)

The whole book can be found here in various formats:

http://www.archive.o...ement00londrich

Just found a Salvador Dali painting jpeg featuring a selection box of fireworks.

"Board of Demented Associations (Fireworks)" circa 1931 Oil on embossed tin (box?)

I guess it's probably based on a 1930's selection from Spain, France or USA.

I just saw this and thought people might be interested.
Including pyrophones and other musical pyro fun

http://www.bbc.co.uk...t_feature.shtml

Each week in NS they publish questions from readers, good answers win a £25 prize.

I found this question and thought it worth posting:

Kaboom squared
I've just got back from a fireworks display where some of the fireworks exploded into a square shape.
How do they do that?

Justin Muller
Tokyo Japan

Post answers to: lastword@newscientist.com

(Include your postal address to receive payment for answers)

This was from the 20 Jan issue but the questions run until answered.