Mylor Bridge (click on photograph to bring up bigger/better version).

An unusual one at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall, and it's a design which I don't think we've seen anywhere else. Looking at it a bit more closely now that we've got better photos, it's readily apparent that the handle is connected to the operating rod via a pulley wheel which runs between two guide rails. This forms an unusual compound lever mechanism, providing a degree of mechanical advantage. (It makes it easier to pump water.) Our best guess as to the function of the spherical device mounted on the cap is that it's an air vessel, designed to even out the flow of water, in other words to reduce the natural pulsing effect of a simple pump. Others have researched the name "Gilbert" and have come to the conclusion that it's the name of the benefactor. Philosopher Squire Davies Gilbert of Trelissick died well before the date on the pump, but it could well have been donated by his family. Photographs exist of it still in use in the 1930s, and it must have remained in use until mains water was brought into the village in 1944. Thanks to Sarah Davis for the photos. Markings: "GILBERT 1852". Manufacturer: Unk.

Also at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall. Thanks to John Hurst for the photo. Markings: Unk. Manufacturer: Unk.

Also at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall. Thanks to John Hurst for the photos. Markings: "PATENT" on the handle. Manufacturer: Unk.

Also at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall. Thanks to the Mylor Local History Group for the photo. Markings: Only the welded letters "MPC" on its barrel. (This we are told shows that it's the property of Mylor Parish Council, and we've seen the same on a pump at nearby Flushing.) Manufacturer: Unk.

Another at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall. Thanks to the Mylor Local History Group for the photo. Markings: A shield with "LLEWELLINS & JAMES BRISTOL" and the welded letters "MPC" on its spout. Manufacturer: Llewellins & James of Bristol.

Yet another at Mylor Bridge, Cornwall. Thanks to the Mylor Local History Group for the photo. Markings: Unk. Manufacturer: Unk.

On the outskirts of Mylor Bridge, Cornwall, this one is still in use. Thanks to the Mylor Local History Group for the photo. Markings: Unk. Manufacturer: Unk.

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