III -Records of a family of engineers

In this chapter, we delve into the professional life and underlying philosophy of Robert Stevenson, an esteemed engineer known for his practical approach towards engineering challenges. Stevenson is renowned not merely for his mechanical inventions, such as the Jib or Balance Crane at the Bell Rock, but more so for his ability to project works against nature and modulate the natural environment to meet human needs. Whether it involved constructing roads, buildings, harbors, or managing river channels, Stevenson exercised a profound connection with the natural elements, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to understanding nature’s intricacies for over half a century.

A significant part of Stevenson’s excellence lay in his meticulous observation and measurement of natural phenomena, a testament to his belief in the power of mensuration. He held a conviction that engineering essentially deals with what can be quantified and measured, emphasizing the importance of experience, intuition, and an ‘exquisite sympathy’ for nature in the field of civil engineering. Stevenson’s approach to engineering was highly practical, always considering the unpredictable forces of nature and incorporating a certain ‘transcendental sense’ into his calculations and predictions.

The narrative also reveals Stevenson’s passion for chronicling his experiences and observations, albeit acknowledging the limitations of conveying such a tacit knowledge through literature. His extensive records, described as a “voluminous handy-book of nature,” reflect not only a diligent pursuit of professional expertise but also an ambitious, albeit impractical, attempt to document all conceivable knowledge relevant to engineering. Stevenson’s lifelong endeavor to capture the essence of his work and the broader scope of engineering in his writings underscores a pioneering spirit amidst the evolving landscape of engineering in his time.

Through Stevenson’s story, we come to appreciate the balance between empirical data and the inherent intuition required in civil engineering, a discipline deeply intertwined with the natural world. It highlights the indispensable role of personal experience, observation, and a nuanced understanding of nature’s laws in developing engineering solutions that stand the test of time and elements. Ultimately, Stevenson’s legacy is portrayed as a blend of innovative engineering achievements and an enduring quest to harmonize human endeavors with the unpredictable dynamics of nature.