THE EGYPTIAN DIARY of ELIJAH BRENTNALL.

1852 ~~~~~ 1853

Contents: Preface Part One LETTER FROM ELIJAH TO HIS WIFE dated 13th March 1853 Part Two ELIJAH'S DIARY covering the months of November 1852 to December 1853. Part Three LETTER TO WALTER H. BRENTNALL FROM JOHN GODDARD written 4th March, 1896 Part Four NOTES WRITTEN BY HIRAM BRENTNALL. 12 March 1860. PART FIVE NOTES ENDNOTES THE EGYPTIAN RAILWAYS PREFACE ELIJAB BRENTNALL BIOGRAPHY He was born on March 17, 1803, in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, eldest son of John Brentnall (1779 - 1848), bricklayer, and Hannah Hickton Brentnall (1785 - 1864.) He married Hannah Aldred on May 4, 1823. They had seven children; Mary, George, Edwin, William, Hiram, Thomas and Charles. In 1832 to 1835 he lived at Stapleford, Nottingham. He was a successful builder of houses and hotels until 1844, when he was declared bankrupt, and his property which was sold at auction included two substantial "genteel residences" with valuable land in Brixton and Camberwell, sufficient to build six others. In the 1851 census he was shown as a bricklayer and journeyman, living at 3 Clive Terrace, Birmingham, with his wife and sons George, Tom and Charles, the elder two also bricklayers. His wife Hannah died in January 1855. Elijah and Hiram did not return to England until 1856. Hiram married Elizabeth in May 1852 and on his return to England, they emigrated to Australia in 1856. (see The Diary of Hiram Brentnall at Scribd.com for further details.) On his return from Egypt he built the Anchor Inn in Ilkeston and lived there with his daughter Mary and her husband, John Goddard. In 1871 he was at 1 Market Street, Ilkeston. He died March 6, 1875 aged 71 and was described as a Publican and Builder. When his will was proved on May 3, 1875 his effects amounted to less than twenty pounds. He is buried in the Birmingham General Cemetery.

Part One LETTER FROM ELIJAH BRENTNALL TO HIS WIFE (Note from original transcriber: 'This letter was copied as written. Elijah was a Derbyshire man with a north of England accent and spelt phonetically and old English).

Top of the Pyramid of Cheops Gezha Edypt March 13th, 1853 Dear Wife, This is written on the top of the Highest Pyramid in this Country. I can count nine large ones besides a number of small ones 3 sides as far as you can see is like a sea of sand it is truely a desert and one side is a fertile country Transversed by the Nile. I cannot describe it but I wish you could see it the Prospect is unaccountable. This day is six years since I left London to go to the Potteries. I will finish this letter when I get back to Cairo. EB

Wood engraving by Pannemaker 1860.

March 17 At the Citidal situated at the top of a high rock outside the city of Cairo is a large deep Well called Joseph's Well it is a square deep hole about 12 Ft square and 300 ft deep which supplies the place with water it is raised by a wheel turned round by 2 Bullocks an endless rope runs over the wheel and down to the water then about 3 ft apart earthenware jars which will hold about a gallon is tied with a string, of course one side of the rope is going down and one side up the jars goes down

with the mouth down through the water and up full then as they pas (pass) over the wheel emptys (empties) themselves into a trough and runs where it wants. The whole country is irrigated by means of these simple machines. Shallow Wells supplied from the Nile 'in all directions except at the time of the flood it is lifted '. out of the Nile by the same means. (Here was a handdrawn illustration of this apparatus.)

Une Sakieh, wood engraving by Pannemaker. 1860

Jubb Yussef (Joseph's Well)

Yesterday I went to a place called Heleopolis 3 seven miles from here and got my lunch under the tree where the Virgin Mary rested with our Infant Saviour in her flight from the Land of Egypt it is called the land of Oz in the Scripture the surrounding country and part of which we past is the lend of Goshen where Joseph and his Bretheren fed their flocks when they came for corn to Egypt

It is a beautiful fertile country covered now with Smiling Corn and by such time as you recieve this it will be fit to cut. Where the above named tree is situated is on the skirt of the desert but is a garden now belonging the Pasha and kept in good order the large Orchards around as well as the garden is full of fruit and other trees but the oranges in Full Blossom is delicious the lemons also some ripe some Green and covered with Blossoms at the same time. A beautiful sight besides oranges and lemons there is growing roses Geraniums Peppermint the Convolvulos Privot Figs Jassamine fennel the Vine Scotch Kale apples rosemary hedges Dates Radishes water mellons and Pumpkins Burmantly (sic) Cactusus high as our house Plumbs and Apricots lettuce and Spinnage merigolds and stursion in full bloom Cucumbers Kidney Beans and Garden Beans ripe asparagus and many other things I cannot mention. I had Kidney Beans for Dinner yesterday the radishes and lettuce is very fine and large and carrots and the lettuce is 2 to 3 ft high so very fresh in a garden close to the desert is an Oblisck at least 60 ft high standing and 6 ft square all in one piece of Granite and covered almost all the way outside with the honeycombe formed by the wild bee.

Heliopolis, steel engraving,c. 1850 The Al-Masalla obelisk, the largest surviving monument from Heliopolis. (Wikipedia)

1 had two gentlemen to smoke a pipe with me on Tuesday evening one his name is Mr Walker from Coventry he and a Mr Geach of Birmingham MP married two sisters the

other was an Arab gent but received his education in England and can speak as good English as I can so we had a fine crack the first I have had since I left home. I have been down this evening with Mr Walker to Sheppards Hotel and they was going to bury a little daughter the hearse was at the door. Mr Sheppard fetched me a pair of gloves and asked me to go in the carriage with them having nothing else to do I went and the English have got a fine burying ground walled in with a high wall on the sight of old Cairo about a mile off the present City.

I intend going to the Petrified forest tomorrow but the worst of it is not having comp (company) except my Dragoman. I will bring some of the Petrification away with me if all is well. I don't know when I shall get from here I am waiting to get some timber away they have agreed for 300 Baulk and I have 400 more pieces in transit but fast for water in the Canal and Nile and all the timber will have to be carried on Camels Backs arje (agree) they carry scaffold poles and timber 30 ft long on a Camels back 10 or12 large poles at a time why I've seen a Camel get up and make away with 14 qut (hundredweight) appearently easy I would not have believed it if I had not seen 4 bags of 420 lbs (pounds) each on one camel.

There came a Wedge lady 2 servants and Mr Parson all Scotch in the same boat from Alexandria and have been staying at the same Hotel I am but they started across the desert this morning intending to biset (visit) the Holy Land twill take 6 or 7 weeks they has 12 Camels all loaded with provisions. Baggage Tents and 2 Dragomen and a dozen Arabs. I am now all alone tonight just dined by myself 3 waiters 1/2 past seven I shant be long before I am in bed but the India Mail is expected to night so I must send this as soon as they come in the morning. My love to all of you and I hope your Mother is better. I will write you again as soon as I get to Benka by the next mail. I have never recd (received) but 2 papers Just see to it. Yours affy E Brentnall ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Steel engraving by A. Carse, c. 1850. (Note: is it curious that he does not mention seeing the Sphynx, perhaps still largely buried by sand at the time.)

Cover of a Letts Diary of the same era, kindly provided by Claire Donnelly of letts.co.uk.

ELIJAH'S EGYPTIAN DIARY.

written INSIDE FRONT COVER OF DIARY

E. BRENTNALL 3 Clive Terrace Holloway Terrace, Birmingham

NOVEMBER, 1852 November 21, Sunday Left Birmingham for London by 7.30 train arrived Euston 1.30 2 hours late. Saw Josh Gibbs in Gray's Inn Lane. Dined with him. Met Mr. Warwick at the Wellington Wytch Street London in evening left after 12 oclock. Monday 22 Saw Mr Price at 6 Delchay Street agreed to salary of 400 pound per annum but if job done satisfactory in 2 years or less I have 1000 pound. Tuesday 23 London to Southampton by express 7.30. Arrived 10 am slept at Heath's Temperance Hotel Oxford Street Southampton. Wednesday 24 Rained all day. Thursday 25 Received letter from 6 Delchay street from Mr Rummins says we sail 4th December. Met Mr Marshall of Belper Derbyshire and his wife - letter received from wife. Friday 26 Wrote to mother, Bentley, brother John. raining since yesterday. Saturday 27 Sent Wm Brentnall a Hampshire paper from Southampton wrote a few lines - a fine day. Sunday 28 Wrote to Mr Cope Draycot, Mr Warwick, Mr Rummins, Hiram Brentnall - went to Unitarian Chapel in evening. Monday 29 Went to see Mr & Mrs Marshall of Belpar at Southampton had tea and spent evening with them. Tuesday 30 Have bad cold and pain in side, stayed indoors. Wednesday December 1 Got no satisfaction at Southampton of shipping selves and materials to Alexandria via Laid Gilash.
{This was incorrectly transcribed - it was the Faid Gihaad, the yacht of the Viceroy of Egypt, illustrated below.}

Went to London by express saw Mr. Price, Mr Rummins, went to Orintate Company Office ( Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company)in Leadenhall street and business of shipping set right returned to Southampton by mail train arrive 11.30.

DECEMBER 1852 Thursday 2 Got the plant shipped most of them in fine style after getting telegraphed orders from Leadenhale Street. Mr Rummins arrived here 1.15 Friday 3 Got the remainder of plant and materials on another ship, left the dock about 2.15 pm went down the river and anchored for the night. Mr Rummins left for London 11.30. 11.30 am left the Southampton dock in small steamer for the Laid Gilish * all passengers luggage put on board when the small steamer went back to Southampton for despatches. Returning at 2 pm at 2-7 pm. This fine steamer sailed down river as far as opposite Portsmouth and Ryde to try her spied over measured mile proved at 1 mile in 5 minutes 4 seconds returning in 5 minutes 51 seconds then sailed up river to anchor for the night off Calshot Castle, becoming rough and windy proporting to start on our journey voyage on Sunday 5th. wind blowing very hard. Roast Beef and Plum Pudding for dinner sailing delayed. 11.45 am sailed from Southampton water past the Needles 1.30 wind blowing hard. Crossed the Bay of Biscay - wind blowing hard. Ill all the time in bed. Wind still blowing hard but feel better on deck all day after Breakfast. Fine day moderate wind off the coast of Portugal past Lisbon Rock on deck all day cough & cold nearly left me. wind blowing hard warm and fine - crossed Bay of Trafalgar passed 2-3 decker men of Warships in full sail in the bay. Arrived in the Harbour of Gibraltar dropped anchor 3 pm ship taking on coal 2 first rate men of war 2 frigates lying at anchor (all very interesting to me). Went ashore at Gibraltar up to the top of the rock visited 0'Hara Towers, the Signal House the town and fortifications, weather very warm, Oranges growing as well as blossoming accasias, cactuses, Fig trees, geraniums Roses, etc, etc, etc in bloom and all growing fast. The fragrance so powerful as to be oppressive. A delightful day, much pleased with the place. Sherry wine 1/3 a bottle. At the Signal House had some wine cheese and bread for lunch. 7.30 evening just finished taking on 420 tons of coal since 7.30 pm last night. Saw swallows flying about.

Saturday 4

Sunday 5 Monday 6 Tuesday 7 & Wednesday 8 Thursday 9 Friday 10 Saturday 11

Sunday 12

Gibraltar, pictured in the late 18th Century at around the time that it provided the first overseas posting for the 82nd (Prince of Wales's Volunteers) Regiment http://www.lancashireinfantrymuseum.org.uk

DECEMBER. 12 Monday 13 On board all day tired with walking so much on Sunday. Rainy morning evening lightening and rain fine in the middle of the day. Tuesday 14 Went on shore returned from dinner, went through markets fine raddishes, like carrots french beans and all sorts of vegetables, cheap. After went to the extent of the British lines on the Ithmus next Spanish Boundaries. On shore again invited by Mr Staples the ships steward who went on ships business. Six them of ware laying in Harbour, The Brittiania (Admiral Dundas). The Trafalgar, Ballorophon (Bellerophon b. 1824) Arethun (Arathusa) . the Albion and Ampheors (Amphion) steam screw Frigate.

The Britannia flying the flag of Rear admiral Dundas. 1852. National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

Wednesday 15 Sailed from Gibraltar 12 oclock noon for Malta. Fair wind all sails set weather bright and warm. Took on board a Mahomidian Pilgrim going to Mecca says he is a decendant of the Prophet. Thursday 14 Weather still warm fair wind saw coast of Africa (Alerean coast) Friday 17 Weather fine and warm fair wind. Some of the ships men having lost several articles on the voyage on some pretence, all hands, officres and men were called on the Quarter Deck tyhe Capptain ordered that every mans kit and hammock should be brought there and Searched to see if the missing articles or any of them could be found but after a rigid search nothing could be discovered but what belonged to their proper owner. The Captain then offered a reward of five pounds for the person who had taken any of the aforesaid articles unlawfully. If the man who had been guilty of purloining any of the mens things had been found out he would have been put in irons and as soon as our arrival at Malta handed over to the civil authorities to be dealt with. The above named occurrence took place from 12 to 1/2 past 1 in the day and caused a good deal of expentancy. Saturday 18 Weather find and warm until past 3 pm when it came on a storm and continued to blow hard now 7 oclock wind fair. Passed the Islands of Gaeteia and Limbla(?) of the coast of Barbary. Sailed 110 miles from 7 oclock this morning till 3 this afternoon 8 hours 14 3/4 miles per hour expects to be in Malta tomorrow morning if all is well. This morning between 2 & 4 oclock a young first officer came down into the after Gun rooms and said something to the steward's pantry man. He being half asleep did not understand him - he returned in a few minutes and said if he had to tell him again to do anything he would punch his b ---- y head for him.- Dear a me he ought to have a birch rod applied. I wish I was the doctor compelled to apply it to his Bare Back Front

DECEPBER 1852 Sunday 19 Arrived in Malta from Gibraltar at 1/2 past 10 oclock in the morning went ashore after Dinner. Wether very fine. Visited St John's Church a fine old place saw in the vaults the tombs of the first Knights of Malta went up to the Belfry a fine view of the town round the different Harbours from that elevated situation heard the Band of the 78th Regiment in the Gardens Governors House and the building used as officers quarters is very large square. Edifices in the Italian style. 1/2 past 5 evening returned to the ship in a small maltese boat.

View of St. John's Church, Malta, from Badger's guide book 1838.

Blowing a hurricane and rain, I believe we never should have got to the ship if 2 English men of wars men had not happended to have got into the same boat and assisted the natives to row us to our destination. In their way to their own ship as it was we got a good soaking, the steward and 2 other officers belonging to our ship was ashore the same night and could not wether it they was obliged to drop, under a man of war, who took them on board and gave them accommodation for the night, they told me they must have been drowned had they further attempted to gain their own ship. I wonder how we got there. Myself, Hiram, Tom, the ships carpenters 2 Newcastle men thanks to the 2 British tars and Providence, was on our side, sincere thanks.

Monday 20 Ship started from Malta for Alexandria at 4 oclock afternoon. Been waiting all day for the wind going down as it has been blowing a gale all last night and all day today sea running high but the Laid Gitaad rides nobly a magnificent ship took in stores coals and provisions Sunday and Monday morning. A many naval and military officers ladies and gentlemen visited the ship all astonished at her size and beauty.

The Steam Frigate "Faid Gihaad"' built for the Pacha of Egypt.

Tuesday 21 Evening. A fine day a nice breeze. Right ahead but we have been sailing from 12 to 13 miles per hour - been looking all over the engine rooms and engine. 800 horse power what a ponderous machine but works as smooth and steady that I hardly perceive the vibration. Boiler with 24 furnaces all roaring together what a place below. The Mohomedan Priest awful sick. Wednesday 22 Wether fine and hot in the middle of the day and now 1/2 past nine a warm clear moonlight night like summer in England. Expect to be in Alexandria tomorrow.

Alexandria, from a steel engraving by W. H. Bartlett 1837.

Thursday 23 Arrived at Alexandria at 1/4 pas 2 oclock in the afternoon. Mr Oldham sent a person on board to fetch us on shore (he being ill in bed) a carriage' was waiting to take us to the Uropian Hotel. Went up to look at the Wharehouses to see if they would suit for stores, etc. Surprised at the place and eastern customs Camels, Donkeys Arabs (stink in abundance) etc. DECEMBER 1852/JANUARY, 1853 Friday 24 Took Mr 0ldham's horse and trap and drove round the timber yards to the Railway office to ask Mr Pringle concerning an order on the Egyptian Government for Timber for Beli frames Piling engines and trucks or trolleys. Did not see him - left word to call on Mr Oldham which he did but no official from Cario(Cairo) Instructions at present to give an order. Saw Mr Thurburn said the materials on board the ship would be discharged on Monday morning 27th Dec. Saturday 25 Christmas Day. Been round the timber yards found plenty of good timber suitable to our purpose for the railway nothing to be done about landing the material from the ship Lots of English sailors riding donkeys they having a holiday being Christmas day the weather very hot and roads dusty - got very little sleep last night from pain of the mosquito bites on the back of my hands the preceeding night. Noises donkeys

braying dogs barking and howling, cats squealing. Music playing Arabs and Portegese hollering and shouting all night a perfect pandenonium of noise. Went to look at Cleopatras needles

Attributed to Joseph Schranz (German, 1803-1853) View of Cleopatra's Needle in its original position outside Alexandria, Egypt pencil, pen and brown ink and brown wash, on paper.

Sunday 26 1/2 past 10. Received notice unexpectedly that 200 Arabs were sent to get our materials cleared out of the ship. 1/4 past 4 just finished landing the whole of the Plant and getting it safe into the store. These fellows work hard and if they flinch thi (?) .....
THIS ENDS ENTRY FOR 1852
(The writing changes, much neater - had he been sea sick or were diary entries made by son Hiram ?)

1853 January 1, Saturday No sawyers this morning finished 1.2 of frame Beli commenced a new frame 20 ft long cut up canvass for 2 inside top sheets for tents. Sunday 2 Rained nearly all day could not get out at all very dirty Monday 3 Had Tempory bank leveled commenced the second frame for Beli. Leveled ground for smithy went with Mr Oldham to Mr Beles to see after castings saw his lathe. Mr Bale at Constaninople Stafford and Whitworth arrived in Egypt by the Ripon from London.

JANUARY, 1853 TO MARCH 1853 Tuesday 4 Practiced the men at the Beli frames for Piers way on Tempory bank Cutting out canvas for Arabs to make tents. Started 2 sawyers. Saw 3 steamers standing into the Harbour went down to the wharf expected Mr Rummins not any English Ship. Had 16 Keeps and 16 Cotters from Railway Stores. Wednesday 5 Looking after sawyers joiners masons at Smithey. After sawyers went to the " Ripon" for 20 bars of Iron was sent into Customs. Commenced 2 more 20 ft frames by Maltese Carpenters. Bought 2 mat Baskets or 3 porters to carry Grub. Weighed 4 coils of cords and 1 of small sash cord 45 Okers. Thursday 6 Finished Smithey on the line finish 1 top sheet for large tent. Picked out boards for Smithy 20 in number applied at Railway office for a pass for 2 Bales and 20 Bars of Iron in Customs. Capn. Effendi promised one directly. Wrote home by the "Ripon" mail steamer s hip also few lines to Mr Bently. (note on "Ripon": 1846 sold 1870 to Caird & Co converted to
sail.)

Friday 7 January to Wednesday 9 March Alexandria. Thursday 10

No entry in diary.

Appears they were pre cutting timber and preparing all the materials in

Left Alexandria per steamer to Cairo on route to Benka 9 oclock this morning. Friday 11 Arrived at Cairo at 3 oclock put up at Noletes Uropion Hotel. (European?)

The Mail Packet from Alexandria, off Marseilles -- The Indian Mail on Board

Cairo. Engraving . 1863.

Saturday 12 Waited upon Mr Swinbourne at the railway divan. Sunday 13 Visited the Pyramids climbed to the top of the Highest was much pleased with the excursion. (See letter started by Elijah to his wife on 13th March, in very neat writing.)

Steel engraving by W. Finden 183

Monday 14 - Tuesday 15

No entry

Wednesday 16 Went to Heliopilis dined under Joseph and Mary's Tree it is in the midst of a beautiful garden now. Enjoyed the excursion much delighted with the orange orchards in full bloom.

Thursday 17 Friday 18

No entry Spent the day at the Island of Rhodes Curshard Effendi dined together at Nolte Hotel. Mr Walker spent the evening with us. No entry MARCH. 1853

Saturday 19 - Sunday 20 Monday 21

Saw Mr Swinbourne said he was ashamed at having to give me such unsatisfactory answers respecting timber for Binka. I went to Bolac Assaneen Effendi having orders to get Pontoons or Barges ready for Binka (Mr Borthwick with Pasha). Evening Can hear nothing of supply of timber I am disgusted at the continued delay will start to Benka tomorrow

Tuesday 22 Wednesday 23

Left Cairo 10.30 arrived at Benka 4.30 afternoon, 6 hours hard ride on a donkey dined with Mssrs Fowler & Vaughan. Assisted the Engineers to set out ground for the works yards etc, started 400 men to get tha ground removed from the dock to raise the Yards Assisted in setting

out the East Abutment for excavation. Breakfast and Dinner with the Engineers. Thursday 24 Went with the Engineers to the Pashas Palace to look at some Piles and Piling Engines.

Citadel of Cairo, the residence of the Pasha. http://www.musicksmonument.com/EGYPT_%26_NUBIA_VOL._III/CITADEL_OF_CAIRO,THE_RESIDENCE_OF_THE_P ASHA..html

Friday 25 Received a letter from Mr Swinbourne wishing me to return to Cairo to look to the Pontoons and Boats being properly strengthened for Benka Bridge. Started from Benka at 6 pm in the Diabehew. Saturday 26 Arrived at Bolac from Benka saw Mr Swinbourne who procured me an order from the divan for 18 Boats which was sent the same evening to Bolac and Asseneen Effendi received his instructions from the Dock yard Divan on Sunday morning. Sunday 27 Monday 28 Dined with Mr Walker and took Tea with Mr & Mrs Asseneen Effendi. First Officer in the Viceroy of Egypts Dockyard at Bolac. To the Railway Divan (Cairo) procurred from the divan appointing myself to Superindendent. The Pontoons and boats repairing and authorizing Asseneen Effendi to make such alterations and additions as I might require for the purpose intended.

Curshard Effendi took lunch with me at the Europion Hotel had it not been for him would not have got the above letter. Asseneen Effendi says the above letter is satisfactory and he will order to be done all that I require. Tuesday 29 To the Railway Office Mr 'Swinbourne wrote for 4-4 oared boats for Mr Prices use at Benka also the house that was taken down from the deck of the Bath Barge. Mr Price arrived at Cairo from Alexandria at 1/2 past 12 pm. MARCH 1853 T0 APRIL. 1853 Wednesday 30 Work at the Boats progressing well. Thursday 31 April, Friday 1 Mr Price started from Cairo to England Mr Walker came and dined with me on board the Diabehea. Saturday 2 Sunday 3 Assorting and measuring timber. Sailed up the Nile to Gezha with Hassanee Effendi. Dined with Mahmoud Bey. Mr Price came to Bolac and smoked a cigar with me and Asseneen Effendi. Commenced measuring timber for Benka.

Portrait of Mohammed Bey, fr.academic.ru

Palais de Mohammed Bey, engraving by Pannemaker 1860 (from website Le Voyage en Papier - Marc Dechow, Antique prints, Maps and rare books.)

Monday 4 Tuesday 5 Wednesday 6 Thursday 7 Friday 8

Selected and measured Timber to Gazha in the evening with Hassanee Effendi. Selected and measuring Timber to Gazha and dined with Mahmoud Bey and Hassanee Effendi. Selecting and measuring Timber Selecting and measuring Timber At Cairo dined with Mr Walker and spent the afternoon at Sheppards Hotel

from Smithsonian Libraries www.sil.si.edu "Nile Notes of a Howardji / American travelers in Egypt."

Saturday 9 Sunday 10 Monday 11 Tuesday 12

Assorting and measuring Timber. Spent the evening with a few English friends at Sheppards Hotel Cairo - the first social evening since I left home. No entry Selecting timber all day. Mr Rummins arrived at 2 oclock in the morning. Stopped all last night at Sheppards Hotel as went with him to Bolac before breakfast, in the afternoon to the Railway divan arranged with Mr Swinbourne for 250 sailors, 1 comp (company) of soldiers, ship, carpenters and riggers.

Wednesday 13 Mr Rummins started for Benka early, I started at 9 oclock in the evening by water after having been in Cairo all day with Mr Walker laying in stores for my own (?0) all agreed with A cook and general servant for 120 piasta per month 20 pia's to be kept back 12 months and if he leaves before that time or misbehaves himself to forfeit the same. Ihursday 14 Friday 15 No entry 6 am arrived in Benka from Cairo in the Diabehea

(Dahabeah: "The dahabeah .. was the proper way to do the Nile trip ...it had a native captain and crew and its passage was made
subject to local customs and conventions." Consuming Tradition, Manufacturing Heritage: Global Norms and Urban Forms in ... By Nezar AlSayyad (Google Books) Colonial Nostalgia and Cultures of Travel)

arranged for the commencement of the works with Mr Rummins after witch he left for Alexandria via Cairo at 1 oclock pm. APRIL 1853 Saturday 16 Sunday 17 with Mr Fowler & Vaughan to look at Piling engines made a sledge to remove large stones for abutment on east side the Nile. Morning with the Engineers removing stones with the sledge full rate Mr Souley at my tent to Dinner with wife Mr Fowler & Vaughan. Slept for the last time thank God in the Diabehea. Monday 18 Engaged 4 Arab Carpenters commenced making a piling engine building a carpenters shed and blacksmiths forge. Complained to Abdelrahman Effendi that the men was doing nothing. Sailors and Carpenters wont work because they can get no bread from the authorities the Effendi warned all the Nazars to see the work was pressed on Mr Fowler wrote to Cairo complaining also and wished them to send someone to see after it the men worked better. Tuesday 19 Sorting and cutting timber for Dock framing work at the Carpenters shed and smiths forge also at the piling engine. The Fellahs does not work so well today as yesterday I cannot wonder considering what they get for it. Slept last night for the first time in the tent started the Diabhea for Caffer Lais for Mr Rummins 9 oclock in the morning fair wind. Wednesday 20 Work at the Carpenters shed Smiths forge and preparing timber for Docks. Received 2 newspapers from home, letter from Mary (xxxx) and one from wife. At work making piling engine Mr & Mrs Scully and children paid me a visit in my tent. Thursday 21 2 pair of Sawyers arrived from Cairo. Removing our own machinery at work at the Carpenters shed Smiths Fore and piliny engine. Over the water to tea with Mr & Mrs Scully they are truelly hospitable people we ammused ourselves talking about home and abroad until not being aware of it after 12 Mr Sully accompanied me over the water to my tents (thanks to him). Friday 22 Checking the machinery which came by the first boats from Alexandria found it all correct they was given in charge of the Rais on the 12th & 13th February. At work at the Carpenters shop and piling engine and Smiths forge. Abdel Duachman Effendi wants me to give an acct (account) of all timber I use and what for. I will leave the job first I told him to send a clerk or to do the job himself for I was not a servant of his Highness and there was an end of that I will never do it.

A dahabeah. Steel engraving by W. French, c. 1850

APRIL. 1853 Saturday 23 Checking the remainder of the machinery which came by the second boats from Alexandria found it (space) these were put on board the 14th February. At work at Carpenters shop and Piling engine finished Smiths forge made Mr Fowler a maul with 2 Handles true Egyptian. Mr Scully came over brought me 6 bottles of Ginger Beer wood bells for fly prevention in the Glass of Grog invited me to spend Sunday with them, this is better than having nothing but Arabs for neighbours. Sunday 24 Checking remainder of Machinery all correct the Circular Saw in the Govt. Magazine to dinner with Mr & Mrs Scully afternoon sailed up the river in a Diabhea. xxx Hiram and Tom arrived from Alexandria xxx Monday 25 Mr Hedge arrived from Alexandria commenced fixing the bellow in the Smithey and got to work in the evening. At work at the Piling engine. Made Mr Fowler a maul with 4 handles also a one handled maul both wall ? hooped. Tuesday 26 Smith and Carpenters at work at the Piling Engine. Commenced laying down sills for Dock framing. Wednesday 27 Mr Rummins arrived at Benha from Coffer Lais 4 days in the Diebhea. At work at the Piling engine at the Docks.

Thursday 28

Making Piling engine etc. with Mr Rummins making plans for Docks and reviewing them. Timber taken Return made 205 Balto Scarlo, 13 Bartoom, 185 Shabook, 581 Loack

Friday 29

Making Piling Engines & Stopt (stopped) the men by Mr Rummins orders from proceeding with the Dock work. with Mr R revisiting and making plans etc. Mr Scully a carpenter to work for me.

Saturday 30

Morning over the water Mr Scully sent a person to Cairo and Coffer Lais at one o'clock sent of (off) the Diabhea same afternoon. MAY. 1853

May , Sunday 1 Laid the first stone for the abutment of the east side of the Nile. Abdel drahnia Effendi a Turkish dinner on the occasion. Went to Cattarawar (cataracts?) to look at Mr Fowlers bridge pit. 6. Sent Albert Stoltzman to Cairo to see after the doors and windows for the Bath house. Monday 2 Tuesday 3 Only one carpenter beside Hiram making Piling Engines, etc. Finished the first Piling engine and fixed it in the pit of the West Abutment of Benka Bridge. Set 3 Carpenters to make Tie rails. Timber taken return made May 4. 4 Corvish, 1 Bartoom, 12 Lan, 8 Balto Searlo, 19 Loack. Wednesday 4 11 oclock Mr Scully just been over tells me went Cairo for Carpenters has returned without any and that Mr Rummins would not see him on Sunday and on Monday was gone to Alexandria. There is no sawyers arrived as yet. My cook and Dragomans Tent been robbed by the Arabs last night. The cook of 65 piastres and all his clothes. Received the Durra for top of shops. The first pile for the west abutment of the Benka Bridge was driven this afternoon. Received a letter from Mr R dated lst Cairo shod the first pile for Mr Fowler with strong Hoop Iron. Thursday 5 3 pair of sawyers has arrived from Cairo altering and repairing old iron work for Piling engine Cost more than new. At work with what Carpenters I have 1 & 2 of Mr Fowlers at the Piling engines. No men to work at the Docks either Carpenters or sailors yet, a sad loss of time all excavated ready the first day of this month for both docks. Friday 6 Making new Clip and Eye for Piling engine. Monkey 2 men severly hurt with Piling engine making new Piling engines 2 & 3.

(Timber used, May 7) 206 Balto Searlo, 7 Cutlea, 16 Shabook, 13 Latha, 1 old oak, 1 Conith, 4 Bartoom, 2 Shars. Saturday 7 Making stage and Fixing pontoon for piling engines to Docks. Commenced laying down sills for North Dock - 4 Gig boats arrived from Alexandria. No carpenters arrived yet made a pile hoop for Mr Fowler.

The Palace of Abbas Pacha at Benha, Nile, 1853.

MAY. 1853 Sunday 8 Mr Scullys engine house near the palace Benka burnt out early in the morning. Commenced putting up the old Bath houses for my own residence went over twice to see Mr Scully the fire has not injured materialy the engine. Will soon get to work again. 250 more sailors has arrived from Alexandria but no carpenters. Monday 9 Working at the North dock with 3 ships Carpenters. A few fellahs. No carpenters arrived yet Mr. Scully has started his engine again after the fire. Went over in the evening after tea to see how he was getting on found he was getting his damage repaired exceedingly fast. Mr Swinbourne arrived at Benka. Tuesday 10 Just started 50 sailors to work in the Docks and 2 ships Carpenters in each. What a start ought to have 20 in each Dock. Penny wise and pound foolish. Plenty of material and no men provided. At work at the Piling Engine No.2 Mr Swinbourne and Fowler called at the office in the afternoon (Timber) 33 Balto Searlo, 3 shabook

Wednesday 11 At work at the Docks laying siles and making the stage for Piling engine. Mended a large Monkey Bolt broke at the Bridge Pit. Made a masons scabbling tool for Mahomet Effendi. Laying floors of my house. Moored the large pontoons for fastening guide chains to for staying piling engine. Evening Mr & Mrs Scully came over on a short visit. 8 old oak. Thursday 12 At work at the docks and making piling engine No. 2. Not any carpenters arrived. Yet I have got the remainder of the Bathhouses (or rather all that I can get toward it) 2 more large boats arrived today from Bolac. Friday 13 Finished and Fixed No. 2 Piling Engine at the jetty ready to commence pile driving. Finished laying floors of my house. Mr Rummins arrived here at Benka from Capper Leis told me had sent Oldham about his business. Saturday 14 Making Pile Hoops, Crow Bars and commenced driving piles for Jetty between Docks. To Mr Scullys twice to see the Palace foreman respecting carpenters. Mr Scully and the Foreman came over to my tent in the evening the man would either contract to find labour and build the Docks or superintend the work for Mr Price. MAY, 1853 Sunday 15 The Pasha sent Solly Pasha over to see when the bridge would be finished and if we wanted any men they should be supplied. Mr Rummins wrote for Carpenters, Borers, Smiths and the foreman to superintend the men under my directions. Put the roof on my house. Monday 16 Morning. Well? Hedge taken ill. Mr Rummins lent the engineers a pump and ordered me to make a new Monkey Bolt for them - they broke the pump spout off lowering it into the well and I mended it myself. Hedge being ill. (Timber) 8 Bartoom, 6 Couish, Q7 Balto Scarlo, 2 Sarry, 4 Lan Shan. Tuesday 17 Morning 5 oclock. S aw Mr Rummins in bed. Told him I could save a great deal of time and labour also a large quantity of timber if he would make an alteration to the plan of the docks after due consideration the plan was altered and I commenced pile driving in the afternoon for the north Dock. Mr R tells me that he does not think we will get the carpenters from the Pasha as he was indignant

at the application for his foreman to come with them Fudge only one Piling engine at work wanted Mr Rummins a time to let me make them at Alexandria when I had little else to do and when I had plenty of carpenters but he would not. Timber taken 13 Bartoom, 14 Couish Wednesday 18 Morning saw Mr R in the Diabhia bad eyes suddenly and obliged to stay in doors. Tells me that his Highness will send the carpenters we required as well as Borers, Turners, Sawyers just as I expected I can now get the Docks ready if I can be supplied with Blacksmiths work but only one smith and one pile engine and not one job of Iron work ready. Wants spikes to start with has repeatedly applied to Mr R to get them. Thursday 19 Saturday 21 Mr Rummins started for Cairo. 2 Carpenters at the house. 2 Carpenters at the house. Removed into the house from the tents and very glad. I hope never to live in tents again. MAY 1853/JUNE, 1853 Sunday 22 Monday 23 Received a letter from Mr Rummins then could get no donkeys or any other conveyance. Started to Cairo with Albert Stoltzman on 2 Bad donkeys arrived there at 4 oclock sometime walking sometime riding. Saw Mr R very ill had got some carpenters and a person name King an Englishman. I spent the evening with Mr Oldham and a few English friends at Sheppards Hotel and slept at Noltes Hotel. Tuesday 24 9 oclock Mr Rummins very ill engaged 13 carpenters and King to go to Benka went to Bolac to see after men and Iron. Wednesday 25 1/4 past 5. Saw Mr Rummins finally settled with the men and advanced them. Money to go with went to Bolac selected Iron Saw King and all his or our men on board a Diabhea and started them for Benka at 3 oclock PM saw Asseneen Effendi much better of his illness. Mr Walker and Mr Loria came and spent the evening with me at my Hotel. Thursday 26 Friday 27 Saturday 28 Sunday 29 Monday 30 Saw Mr Rummins for the last time in Cairo. Went with Mr Walker to Bolac to see Hassannin Effendi. 5 oclock. Started for Benka after hard ride arrived there at 1 oclock. The men I started Wednesday last has arrived except King who they lost or missed the first night or next morning. No entry Commenced making ladders measuring No. 2 straight edges gauge rods, etc. Friday 20 Saturday 21

Tuesday 31 Wednesday 1

No entry JUNE 1853 Well, King whom I started with carpenters from Bolac last Wednesday fell overboard of (off) the top of the Diabhea when asleep it is supposed and was drowned so that he never reached Benka.
(buried Cairo May 28. Will Hedge died 1855)

Thursday 2

Timber taken. Return made. 26 Couish, 18 Shabook, 30 Balto Scarlo, 17 Bartoom, 1 Tempory Iron Rail l5ft, S coils 3 in Rope, 26 of White bark 2 in, Q Canten of Coarse thin Scaffold ropes. Commenced fixing cross shores at the jetty. 4 Arabs on one side, 4 Maltese on the other.

Friday 3 Monday 6 Tuesday 7 Wednesday 8 Thursday 9 Friday 10 Saturday 11

I hear Will King was found at the Barrage on the Nile, dead of course. Will Hedge removed & fixed his anvil, Bellows etc in his new shop. Timber taken. Return made. 28 Shabook, 8 Couish, 10 Zan, 6 8artoom, 23 Balto Scarlo . Commenced building huts. No entry No entry No entry No entry Mr Rummins went to Cairo to see after Carpenters. Mr Fowler went with him. Made a trial hole in the east side of river. Found the strata Satisfactory to the depth of 2 ft below surface of the Nile.

Sunday 12

Set out and commenced building Doctors room, store room, etc. Abdul Drachman Effendi offered to build an extra hut and me to give Tom one which he ordered the men to plaster and lay the floor.

Monday 13 Tuesday 14 Wednesday 15 Thursday 16

100 sailors taken from the works of Mr Price and sent to the fleet at Alexandria No entry No entry Mr Rummins returned from Cairo. Mrrs. Swinbourne, Fowler, Vaughan. Rummins and Vaughan came to my rooms and smoked a pipe. Mr Rummins ordered me positively not to apply to any divan for any one thing except sailors or Fellahs as common labour. The Arabs finished fixing shores, etc on the south side of the jetty after having been taken of (off) one whole day.

Friday 17 Saturday 18

Got the Piling Engine fixed to the first pier on the East side of the River. Timber taken, return made. 33 Balto Serlo, 5 Bartoom, 55 Couish, 15 Lan, 30 Shabook, 7 Mast timber, 25 Rotille of Nails, 2 wire nails and 140 Pots of Glue.

Plenty of Carpenters, but such things to be called carpenters I never saw. JUNE 1853/JULY. 1853 Sunday 19 Monday 20 Tuesday 21 Ihursday 23 Friday 24 Saturday 25 Monday 27 Tuesday 28 No entry No entry Timber taken. Return made 2 Heats, 6 small do, 2 Balto Scarlo Timber taken. Return made 7 Masta, 4 Couish, 2 Bartoom No entry Mr Rummins left Benka for Alexandria V England 1/2 past 7 evening. Timber taken. Return made 5 masts, 12 Balto Scarlo, 3 Bartoom No sailors at work all gone of to go to Alexandria (what shall I do!) No entry my boat. Wrote to Mr Runmins at Alexandria. Thursday 30 No entry

Wednesday 22 No entry

Wednesday 29 Every man Jack of a sailor or Carpenter taken of the works not one left to man

The Nile River.

"Every year the Nile flooded, at almost exactly the same time of the year, 15th July." http://www.aldokkan.com/geography/nile.htm

JULY 1853 July, Friday 1 Saturday 2 Sunday 3 Monday 4 Tuesday 5 Wednesday 6 Thursday 7 Friday 8 Saturday 9 Sunday 10 Monday 11 Tuesday 12 Thursday 14 Friday 15 Saturday 16 The Nile rose for the first time this year, 1 in measured at sun rise. Nile 2 1/2 in. Abdel Drachman Effendi the Mahmoon sent away Suddenly. Nile 7 in. Nile 9 in. Nile 12 1/2 inches Nile 1ft 5 ins. Nile 1 ft 8 ins Nile 2 ft Nile 2 ft 7 in Nile 2 ft 11 in Nile 3 ft 3 ins. Commenced fixing framing and guides for Cassoons. Nile 3 ft 7 in. Nile 4 ft 0 ins. Nile 4 ft 3 1/2 ins. Nile 4 ft 6 ins Mr Swlnbourne & Salim Bey came left Munqe Effendi to take stock of Timber. Hasseneen Effendi Rais arrived et Benke from Bolac. Mahoned Effendi threatened with Transportation for neglegence of duty as also an English Effendi for Do. (ditto) Ordered to take an acct (account) with Mr Fowler of all the timber. Sunday 17 Monday 18 Tuesday 19 Nile 4 ft 8 in Nile 4 ft 10 in Nile 5 ft 2 in Morning Mr Rummins returned from Alexandria to Benka along the line. Thursday 21 Friday 22 Saturday 23 Nile 5 ft 9 in Nile 6 ft 2 in Evening 11 oclock Tom started for Cairo. Attended by accounts for 290 (pound) to pay the men. Nile 6 ft 6 1/2 in Tom could not get the money until Sunday because the Jews had the money in t heir hands. Sunday 24 Nile 7 ft 2 1/2 in Tom got the money in the evening.

Wednesday 13 Nile 3 ft 9 1/2 ins.

Wednesday 20 Nile 5 ft 4 in

JULY, 1853/AUGUST, 1853 Monday 25 Nile 7 ft 10 in Mr Rummins again started from Benka intending to proceed to England if possible. Tom arrived with the money at 10 oclock in the morning. Tuesday 26 Thursday 28 Friday 29 Saturday 30 Sunday 31 Tuesday 2 Wednesday 3 Thursday 4 Friday 5 Nile 8 ft 10 in Nile 12 ft 6 in Nile 13 ft 11in Nile 15 ft 2 in Finished the traveller stage. Nile 16 ft 2 in Return made for A coils of small rope, tarred. Nile 16 ft 8 in Nile 16 ft 11 in Nile 17ft 2 in Nile 17 ft 5 in Nile 17 ft 9 in Finished taking an account of the timber both whatts in work and also that which is in stock by Mr Swinbourne & Selim Beys order on the 16th July. Saturday 6 Sunday 7 Monday 8 Tuesday 9 Nile 18 ft Return for 30 temporary rails, 122 chairs, 122 keys & 244 spikes. Nile 18 ft Nile 18 ft The Nazzer has taken all the Arab Smiths tools away so that he cannot work. Nile 18 ft The Arab Smith nor striker at work Wednesday 27 Nile 10 ft 6 1/2 in

August, Monday 1

The Pyramids from the Island of Roda (1863) F. Dillon

AUGUST. 1853 Wednesday 10 Nile 18 ft Return made for 4 coils of cable or large black rop and 1 cantar of grease. Fixed the Turntable in the yard. The Arab smith is not at work because the Nazzar has taken his tools away wants me to give a receipt for him. Return made for the following Smiths tools: 1 Anvile, 1 Vice, 3 pr of Tongs, 2 Pulleys & l Dolly tool. Thursday 11 Friday 12 Saturday 13 Sunday 14 Monday 15 Tuesday 16 Nile 18 ft Nile 18 ft Nile 18 ft No entry Nile 18 ft Finished Tram road turntable. Nile 18 ft 3 in Finished the Girder Platform. Reis Saluan moving Barges and commenced fixing shears for raising traveller. Wednesday 17 Nile 18 ft 4 in Thursday 18 Friday 19 Saturday 20 Sunday 21 Monday 22 Tuesday 23 Nile 18 ft 6 in Nile 18 ft 6 1/2 in Mssrs Fowler, Vaughan and myself went in the Diabhea to see the works at the Barrage at or over the two mouths of the Nile. Returned from the Barrage No entry No entry Started for Cairo in the Diabhea. Mr Vaughan, Hiram and myself Return for 8 Tempory rails, 32 Chairs and 32 Keys & 64 spikes.

Wednesday 24 No entry Thursday 25 No entry

AUGUST, 1853/SEPTEMBER, 1853 Friday 26 Saturday 27 Sunday 28 Monday 29 Tuesday 30 No entry No entry No entry No entry No entry

Wednesday 31 No entry September, Thursday 1 No entry Friday 2 Saturday 3 Sunday 4 Monday 5 Tuesday 6 Wednesday 7 Thursday 8 Friday 9 Saturday 10 Sunday 11 Monday 12 Tuesday 13 No entry No entry Evening. 8 oclock in the evening. Started from Bolac in the Diabhea for Benka. Arrived at Benka from Cairo in the Diabhea. Mr Swinbourne & Vaughan came with me. 18 sailors has arrived but no Boatswains as written for. No entry Commenced Decking the Square and Barges. No entry Nile 20 ft Nile 20 ft No entry Nile 20 ft 1 in Tested the old traveller up to eight tons. Nile 20 ft 2 in Byram Sacrafice, no Arabs at work. Return made, 1 Large Iron Snatch Block Brass Sheave, 4 wood snatch Blocks with Brass sheaves and snatch block to match the 3 Blocks has buckling ropes attached. Wednesday 14 Nile 20 Ft 4 in Rais Salemes first day assisting to getting up the old travelling on to the stage. "" Thursday 15 Nile 20 ft 4 in Finished fixing Traveller and Jenny.

SEPTEMBER. 1855 Friday 16 Saturday 17 Nile 20 ft 4 1/2in Commenced mooring Barges for pile driving in the river. Nile 21 ft 1 1/2 in running rapidly at the back of the offices. Reis Salame got 50 strokes on the back for neglect of work and lying. Pack one of the Simpson's Crabs together for the traveller. Making stage on Barge for piling engine. Cutting grooves and fitting 4 Large Crab Checks on to the axle bearings for two of Simpson Travellers and making tools. Mr Hedge 1 day Striker do Stoltzman 1 1/2 days and striker 1 1/2 days. Nile 21 ft 7 in. Sunday 18 Monday 19 Nearly had a pile engine barge sunk. Old boat and leakey. Nile 21 ft 8 in Moored pile engine and Barge on second pier (west side the Nile) also the distance rod fixed sent a cow ass for men and materials to repair Barges and Boats to Cairo Divan. Wrote to the Mahmoor requesting that the soldiers should remain all day in the yard unless specially ordered as going to dinner, hinders the work so much as to become very serious. Tuesday 20 Thursday 22 Friday 23 Saturday 24 Sunday 25 Nile 21 ft 9 in Nile 22 ft 3 in Nile 22 ft 5 in Nile 22 ft 10 in Nile 22 ft 11 in Wednesday 21 Nile 22 ft 0 in

Monday 26 Tuesday 27 Thursday 29

Nile 23 ft 0 in Nile 23 ft 1 in Return made for A large wood Blocks with Brass sheaves. Nile 23 ft 1 1/2in

Wednesday 28 Nile 23 ft 1 /2 in

SEPTEMBER, 1853/ OCTDBER, 1853 Friday 30 October Nile 23 ft 2 in Return made for 8 Cautay of Coals. Also requested the Nazzer and also Benka Magazim to delivery up 1 case of screws and straight edges. October, Saturday 1 Sunday 2 Monday 3 Tuesday 4 Wednesday 5 Thursday 6 Friday 7 Nile 23 ft 3 in Nile 23 ft 3 1/2 in Discharged my Dragoman Abraheem. Nile 23 ft 25 in Return made for 1 Canter of Spikes for Decking pontoons. Nile 23 ft 3 1/2 in Reengaged Albert Stoltzman as Dragoman, etc. Nile 23 Ft 2 in Tested one of the Simpsons Crabs to 9 tons. Nile 23 ft 1 in Nile 23 ft 0 in 9 o clock AM Steamer commenced fixing Barges and pile engines in the river. The steamer brought a raft of timber containing 18 large Couish with her from Bolac Saturday 8 Nile 22 ft 11 in 12 o clock Noon. Finished mooring barges in the river and discharged the steamer. The Mahmoor kept the steamer until Sunday morning because he would not give a receipt For the timber brought with her. Skirking as usual.

Sunday 9 Monday 10

Nile 22 ft 11 in Fixed the Pile engine to 3rd pier on the west side the river. Received a note & Times Newspaper from Mr Ralso a note brot (brought) from home by him. Very short of sailors for manning Barges and Boats. The 4 Boatswain has not arrived neither the men for the piling engines.

OCTOBER, 1853 / NOVEMBER 1853/ DECEMBER, 1853 Tuesday 11 Nile 22 ft 9 in Short of Sailors only men to manage one Barge and no men to man small Boats. Wednesday 12 Nile 22 ft 8 in Thursday 13 Friday 14 Saturday 15 Nile 22 ft 7 in Mr Rummins arrived at Benka on his return from England Mr Swinbourne here also. Nile 22 ft 5 in Nile 22 ft 3 in One whole week lost on one pile engine for want of sailors to man the Barges. Sunday 16 to Friday 28 No entry Saturday 29 Saturday 5 Timber taken return made. 1967 pieces also 62 couish. Receipt given to Mahmoor for 30 cantars of lime for repairing office also 148 Rottille of Bar Iron. Sunday 6 to Sunday 27 No entry Monday 28 Mr Rummins and Tom with him started for Alexandria in the Diabhea. Commenced staging to build Girders upon on the West side the river. Tuesday 29 November to Tuesday 20 December Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 No entry No entry Wednesday 21 Launched the large Dolphin at 1 o clock Sunday 30 to Friday 4 November No entry

Sunday 25 Monday 26

Christmay Day. Dined with Mssers Fowler & Vaughan First Iron arrived at Benka for the bridge the Anniversary of our discharging the first Iron and Plant out of the Laid Geehard at Alexandria. Mrs Rummins & Bayles arrived from Alexandria also Tom Brentnall with them.

Indian and Australian Mail arriving at Alexandria. antique print 1853 Illustrated London News. Letter from Elijah Brentnall October 1853.

In October 1853, the Ikeston and Erewash Gazette printed a letter from Elijah Brentnall, under the heading Railways in Egypt.
"We have been favoured with the perusal of a letter dated June 29th from Mr. E. Brentnall (formerly of this town) who is employed at the Binba Bridge Works on the Egyptian Railway, and from which we extract the following: "I have the works entirely under my management, and employ more than 1000 men. They are mostly Arabs, who are compelled to be driven to work like donkeys, with a stick or a whip, the drivers are selected from the best of the Arabs or Turks. Amongst my carpenters I have Italians, Greeks, Albanians, Germans, Arabs and Maltese all speaking different languages. The confusion at Babel was fool to this. I know nothing of their languages, so you may guess what a job I have to make them understand me. But Hiram is getting on well with Italian and Arabic. There seems to have been no improvement in the customs and manners of these Ishmaelites since the day of the Patriarchs. The place we are at is the identical "land of Goshen". The water from Josephs well (down which I have been) is drawn everyday by the same means as it was first made. The corn is still trodden on by Oxen. Before I return I think of joining a party to make a journey to Jerusalem. Tom, Hiram and myself are getting stout. I was never better. The climate though beautiful is hot - 109 degrees in the shade. Cucumber, melon and watermelon are in the greatest abundance. I got one this morning as big as my head for a halfpenny, full of water and most delightful in slaking my thirst. All well, hope to see you in the spring of 1855. E. Brentnall"

DECEMBER, 1853 Tuesday 27 Entry crossed out. the occasion of Mrs Brentna1l's Birthday. Thursday 29 Frida! 30 Saturdax 31 No entry 2nd Boat from Alexandria loaded with Iron for Bridge. 3rd Boats from Alexandria loaded with Iron (Refer Payments expenses ...) EXPENSES AND RECEIPTS RELATED TO RAILWAY BRIDGE OVER NILE AT BENKA ON ACCOUNT OF EGYPTIAN GOVERNMENT TAKEN FROM E. BRENTNALL 's DIARY 1853Paid Railway Fares myself Tom from London to Southampton To London & Back to Southampton Cab & omnibus in London 1 9 Expenses in London Telegraph message 3rd Hiram from London to Southampton Boat & Pins Hiram 6 (total) 140 SD 110 26 30 68 2 19 5 Wednesday 28 Mrrs Fowler & Vaughan, Munsje Effendi, Mr McLaren, etc dined with me on

March 10 Passage money Alexandria to Cairo Do Stoltzman Baggage overweight Stoltzmann Waggon & Horses for luggage to boat at Alexandria 2-9 Donkey to do 11 Porters at Bolac

3-0-0 2-0 0 1-8 6 2-0-0 10 16

2 Donkeys for luggage to Cairo Nov 22 Received from Mr Price on acct of Salary Dehehey St 1853 Jan 15 Received of Mr Oldham at Alexandria 31 Received of Mr Topham Feb 12 Received of Mr Rummins Mar 2 Rec'd of Mr Topham Rec'd of Mr Rummins on acct of expenses to Cairo Benka 21 Rec'd of Briggs & Co., Cairo April 1 Rec'd of Mr Price at Cairo 4 of Briggs & Co, Cairo Mar 31 Rec'd of Mr Topham by Hiram on my acct. Apr 30 Rec'd of Mr Rummins at Benka May 26 Rec'd of Mr Rummins at Sheppards Hotel, Cairo Rec'd of Mr Rummins Rec'd of Mr Price at home June 30 Rec'd of Hr Rummins July 31 Rec'd of Mr Rummins Aug 31 Rec'd of Mr Rummins Donkey to Bolec with letter Hotel Bill 3 camels & 2 donkeys from Cairo to Benka Stoltzman Board & Lodqing April 3 Stoltzman Board & Lodging Sept Rec'd of Mr Runmins Oct 28 Dec 29

1 -0 15-0 -0 6-0-0 3-0-0 2-0-0 5-0-0 17-0 -0 5-0--0 2-0 -0 12-0 0 (total) 36-0 -0 4-0-0 10-0-0 3-0-0 10-0-0 10-0-0 10-0-0 10-0-0 10-0-0 6 4-0-0 16-6 1-4-0 10-0 10-0-0 37-0-0 25- 0-0

Cash received off Mr Price from May 16 at various time to 14 Nov. 52-0

1854 Jan 24 Feby 24 March 24 May 24 June 24 July 24 Aug Sept Oct 24 Nov 15 Dec 24 1855 Jany 24 Feb 24 Mar 24 April 24 May 24 June 24 July 24 Aug 20 Deduct 60-12-10 1/2 Egypt 10 -0-0 10 -0-0 15 -0-0 5 -0-0 20-0-0 10-0-0 J 31-0-0 (total) 557-0-0 Home 770-9- 2 1/2 709-16 -4 539-8-1 20-0-0 7-0-0 10 -0-0 60-0- 0 10-0-0 20 -0-0 20 -0-0 30-0-0 20 -0-0

Deduct Query not Bal Salary Paid Travelling Exp Through France Guns

24-18-8 1249-4-5 1375 _ _ 1209- 4-5 125-15-7 7_ 2 _ 132-17-7 18-17-4 END OF DIARY OF ELIJAH BRENTNALL, WRITTEN IN EGYPT. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Elijah Brentnall left England on 4th December 1852 and he was in Egypt until at least August 1855. His son Hiram applied for consular assistance to travel through Europe in January 1856 and presumably had been there for the same period. The terms of Elijah's contract were that he agreed to "a salary of 400 pound per annum but if job done satisfactory in 2 years or less I have 1000 pound." It is not known whether he received this. ADDITION TO ELIJAH'S DIARY In addition to the diary above, the following was written in the notes section of the Letts Diary on a Bills Due Book and an Almanack for 1856 which included the Appendice for the diary and Almanack for 1856-1857. Inside the front cover of the diary is written: E. Brentnall 3 Clive Terrace Holloway Terrace, Birmingham. New information has come to light since this chapter was written. Firstly, the above is a copy of a typewritten transcription of what was his father Elijah's diary from the Egyptian years. The diary must have been in Hiram's hands, in Australia, because he write in the book the following: HIRAM BRENTNALL CROMPTON STREET WARWI`CK 1856 Coventry near Warwick the birth place of my Elizabeth. I went to see the place during the time that I was in England after I had been to Egypt and prior to my coming to Australia. Hiram Brentnall 12 March 1860. This is the worst place I ever lived in. I hope ere long to be away from this place.

(Note: Hiram and Elizabeth Bateman Brentnall emigrated to Victoria, Australia in 1856. By 1860, Elizabeth had had three children: Elijah Edwin born 1856, Charlotte Hannah b. 1858 and Aldred Alfred b. 1859. She was yet to have Walter Hiram in 1861 and Catherine Elizabeth in 1866, and sadly died within months of the birth of this baby, in December 1866. A damaged piece of paper inside diary relating to second marriage reads: * ...isa Simpson ...ram Brentnall 68 Glenelg Rev J Anderson Church of England Elizabeth Ann Bateman Church Birmingham the 26th May, 1852 (date of first marriage) Age 35

The date at the end of the first paragraph is however 12 March 1860, and was written in Australia. He refers to it (Australia or Coventry?) as 'The worst place I ever lived in. I hope
ere long to be away from this place. "

These final notes on this piece of paper inside the diary relate to a hitherto unknown marriage, to (possibly) a Clara Louisa Simpson, the address is shown as 68 Glenelg and the Rev. J. Anderson of the Church of England is mentioned. Beneath this is his first wife's name and the date of their first marriage. Then is written "Age 35". Elizabeth died at the age of 38, when Hiram was 35. Elizabeth died in 1866 on 22nd December. She had been bedridden since the birth of their daughter Catherine, and the family had been living in poor circumstances in rented rooms in Fitzroy. It would therefore be understandable that he felt that Australia was the worst place he had ever lived in.

The Shalimar, which brought Hiram and Elizabeth to Australia in 1856..

HIRAM BRENTNALL 1831 ~ 1893

ELIZABETH BATEMAN BRENTNALL 1828 ~ 1866

From details on extract of entry of death for Hiram BRENTNELL (miss spelt), it states that he had lived 33 years in Victoria and six years in South Australia. He had married a second time after the death of Elizabeth to a Clara Louisa Simpson, without issue. At the time of his death, his children were Elijah 35, Charlotte 34, Aldred 33, Hiram 31, Albert 29 and Catherine, deceased as a baby.

Letter from John Goddard, 1896

Note: Forty years later, the original of this diary was sent to Australia to Hiram Walter Brentnall on March 4, 1896 by his uncle John Goddard, who had been married to his aunt Mary (Brentnall, Elijah's daughter). (see note below regarding the reversal of the name of the recipient of the diary) The two would have never met, and it is interesting that contact had been maintained over the decades. It does seem that Hiram did not do the same, and that there had been a falling-out between himself , his father and his father's sister, Mary. It can only be surmised that this may have been due to his decision to emigrate to Australia. Hiram and Elizabeth left England within weeks of his return from Egypt. (For further details see 'The Diary of Hiram Brentnall', at www.Scribd.com)

COPY OF LETTER FROM JOHN GODDARD TO WALTER HIRAM BRENTNALL.* 13 Graham Street Ilkeston March 4th 1896 Dear Nephew, I receive your letter on Tuesday Feb 24th and was pleased to have a line from you. You recieved the paper but dont say anything about the Funeral Card. I sent one to you and one to your sister Lottie. I received a letter from her (Mrs Rich) a fortnight ago. I wrote her back on 19th March, informing her of my poor dear wifes wish that she (Mrs Rich) should have her Cameo brooch. I sugested sending what I had to send altogether to you, and for you to dispose of them as my dear Wife would have wished had she been living. I asked Lottie to consult you about it and let me know. Since then having received your symphythising letter I think I may venture to send them at wonce. The news comming to you in so sudden a manner would be a shock. Your Aunt knew this was comming for some time and was I believe quite prepared, she is buried in our Vault in the Ilkeston Church yard along with her father and whear I shall be laid. You may be sure this has been a great trouble to me, I miss her greatly but with the help of God and time the great healer I hope the burden will becom lighter. I am glad you are all well and hope all are doing well. You talk of something you never could understand between your father and Aunt Mary, she for years made many enquiries respecting your fathers whereabouts but to no purpose. At last, one of her uncles Henry Brentnall of Middlesbro I think, who had seen something in an Australian paper, wrote my wife she wrote to your Father he wrote back promising to send a long letter that letter never came. The diary your grandfather made out while in Egypt will send along with the other things. There is a small tin Box put ready for some of her jewelry to be sent in, so I will have to do as you say get a little wooden one that will old (hold) them and the diary. She intended writing on each of them had to receive them but she never did she got weaker and weaker until she passed away. Her last hours was free of pain. She wished the Lord to take her away. The Vicar came in at the time and offered a very nice discours. In your letter to me your address is: No 11 Deakin Street East Brunswick, should it not be off Glenlyon Road East Brunswick Australia I will send this and see if it finds you if so send your full address. I had better not send the things until I hear from you and oblige. Yours affectionate Uncle John Goddard

HIRAM WALTER BRENTNALL 1861 ~1930. who lived at East Brunswick, Victoria, Australia.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note: 'E.E. Brentnall' was Elijah Edwin Brentnall, who was the son of Hiram Brentnall and is a different person from the previous generation Elijah who had only one Christian name. The Diary of Hiram Brentnall (previously published on Scribd.com) follows on from this diary of Elijah, his father. The transcriber who typed the diary asked the question whether Tom Brentnall was brother or son of Elijah Edwin: it could not have been the latter, because Elijah Edwin was Hiram's as yet unborn son. Tom might have been Elijah the elder's 18 year old son or his brother, Thomas who was 38. Elijah himself would have been 50 when he began work in Egypt. The diary is ended here as the year has ended. It is not known whether there were others kept for the following years, 1854, 1855 and 1856, which would have covered the completion of the project. There is a document (see below)which covers Hiram leaving Alexandria for England on 4th January 1856, so presumably he and his father and brother had remained in Egypt for that period. Elijah's wife died on 10th January, 1855, but his mother survived until 1864. It is not known whether Elijah ever returned to England before the bridge was completed and whether he saw his wife before she died. Genealogical Notes: Elijah Brentnall was the son of John Brentnall (1779 - 1848) and Hannah Hickton (1785 - 1864) of Ilkeston, Derbyshire, England. His wife was Hannah Aldred (1797 - 1855). Hiram (b.1831) was Elijah's son, as were William (b. 1829) and Tom (b. 1835).

Their sister Mary (b. 1823) married John Goddard, and on his return to England, Elijah lived with them at 1 Market St., Ilkeston. Elijah Edwin (1856-1929) was the son of Hiram, as was Hiram Walter. (b. 1861) Walter Hiram was the son of Hiram Walter.! (b.1861 d. 1930) * " Walter Hiram" Brentnall (see photo) referred to in this letter was the third son of Hiram Brentnall, and grandson of Elijah. His name was Hiram Walter, but may have been confusedly referred to as Walter by an uncle in England whom he had never met. Hiram emigrated to Australia in 1856 and his diary is also available, as mentioned above. William Brentnall. Why didn't William Brentnall, another son of Elijah, aged 26 at the time, and also an engineer with bridge-building expertise, go to Egypt rather than Brazil, as he did in 1855? William was born March 30, 1829 and in 1855 became assistant to Edward Price, who had contracted with the Brazilian Government for the construction of the Dom Pedro Segundo Railway from Rio de Janiero to the foot of the Serra S. Anna, a distance of 40 miles. He was the Superintendent of Bridge Construction and suffered whilst there from ague and yellow fever, which proved fatal to many of the English assistants. He returned home in 1858 and by 1870 was Surveyor and Water Works Engineer to Tunbridge Wells and he is credited with designing the Grosvenor Bridge. (ref. www.kentrail.org.uk) (ref. www.gracesguide.co.uk/WilliamBrentnall, also www.icevirtuallibrary.com for an obituary.) His wife was Frances. He died in 1894.

Notes on the diary entries: retained. The name of the vessel which took Elijah to Egypt was variously written as the Laid Gilesh etc., but it was found to have been the Faid Gitaad. The places visited en route to Cairo from Southhampton included crossing the Bay of Biscay, sailed past Portugal, Lisbon Rock, the Bay of Trafalgar, Gibralta, past islands off the Barbary Coast, Malta to Alexandria, thence to Cairo and Benka. Whilst there they visited Heliopolos and Rhodes.


FOOTNOTES: 1. The Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops) is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza Necropolis bordering what is now El Giza, Egypt. It is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact. 2. Joseph's Well. Jubb Yussef is located near Kibbutz Amiad in the Galilee, altitude 246 meters, at the western side of a lone rocky hill. ... It consists of a dug-out pit with a diameter of one meter and depth of about four meters, roofed by a cupola supported by four pillars, and surrounded by ancient graves. Jubb Yussef is mentioned for the first time in the middle of the 10th century, but the current structure is of a later period. According to evidence of travellers, the pit, which had been 10 meters deep, had held good drinking water up until the 19th century. Afterwards, due perhaps to the Galilee earthquake of 1837, the pit collapsed and since then has not been mentioned as a source of water. The pit and cupola were located in a quadrangle which also had a small mosque; this was still mentioned by travellers in the 19th century, though nothing remains of it today. According to the biblical story (Genesis 37:12-23), Joseph was sent from Hebron by his father Jacob, to his brothers who tended sheep in Shechem (Nablus). When he arrived there he learned that his brothers had moved on to Dothan, where he then caught up with them. ...It is still not quite clear how the tradition had originated of associating Jubb Yussef with the pit into which Joseph was cast. In the Koran, Jubb Yussef is mentioned in two verses: Surah 12 verses 10 and 15. Verse 10 says that one of the brothers of Joseph opposed killing him, and said it would be better to throw him into the bottom of a pit (jubb), so that one of processions could take him from there. Verse 15 says that when Joseph was cast into the pit, God told him that he, Joseph, would one day remind his brothers of this incident.
(http://www.triposo.com/poi/Jubb_Yussef_28Joseph27s_Well29)

3. Heliopolis ..."was one of the oldest cities of ancient Egypt, the capital of the 13th Lower Egyptian nome that was located five miles (8 km) east of the Nile to the north of the apex of the Nile Delta. Heliopolis has been occupied since the Predynastic Period, with extensive building campaigns during the Old and Middle Kingdoms. Today it is mostly destroyed; its temples and other buildings were used for the construction of medieval Cairo. ... The site of Heliopolis has now been brought for the most part under cultivation and suburbanization, but some ancient city walls of crude brick can be seen in the fields, a few granite blocks bearing the name of Ramesses II remain, and the position of the great Temple of Re-Atum is marked by the Al-Masalla obelisk. ...The only surviving remnant of Heliopolis is the Temple of Re-Atum obelisk located in Al-Masalla of the Al-Matariyyah district. It was erected by Senusret I of the Twelfth dynasty, and still stands in its original position". ...Wikipedia. 4. Shepheard's Hotel (Cairo, Egypt) "From the 1840s, when the overland route to India was established, Britons moved into Egypt in higher numbers. .. by 1852 the route to India through Alexandria, Cairo, Suez and the Red Sea was in full swing and remained so until the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. The surge of travellers encouraged the arrival of British hotel staff and entrepreneurs, such as Samuel Shepheard - founder of Shepheard's Hotel, railway engineers who built


the railroad from Alexandria to Cairo to Suez. and travel agents such as John Masn Cook, son of Thomas Cook." in 'The British in Egypt: Community, Crime and Crises 1882-1922,' p 9, by Lanver Mak. Cairo's Shepheard's Hotel figures prominently in many travel accounts. The prime stopping place for visitors to Egypt from its opening in 1845, one of its many distinguished guests was Charles Lang Freer, an American industrialist and art collector who later donated his collection of Asian art to the Smithsonian. By 1909, Freer wrote of the addition of other accommodations in Cairo:This early guidebook to Egypt, published for guests staying at the hotel, contains maps, site plans, and general tips for travellers. The original building was destroyed in 1952, and the New Shepheard's Hotel, still in operation, opened in 1957. from 'Nile Notes of a Howadji: American travelers in Egypt', Smithsonian Library. 5. RAILWAYS IN THE NILE VALLEY. Train Operation in Modern Egypt. "The total area of Egypt proper, including the Libyan Desert, the region between the Nile and the Red Sea, and the Sinai Peninsula, is about 383,000 square miles. But the cultivated and settled area consists only of the long narrow Nile Valley and the triangular delta, a total area of about 12,400 square miles. Egypt's historical importance need not be stressed on this page. The country has become a favourite winter resort of Europeans. Egypt was for many years an important part of the "overland route" to India and the East. This route was established in 1842. Mails, passengers, stores, and baggage were disembarked at Alexandria and carried across the desert to Suez. The P. & O. Company at one time owned 3,000 camels, which were employed on this service; the passengers, however, travelled in rough horse-drawn carriages. In 1851 the then Khedive of Egypt, Abbas I, anxious to encourage traffic by this important overland route, entered into negotiations with Robert Stephenson for the construction of a railway from Alexandria to Cairo. This was the first railway on the African continent, and the first section begun in 1852, was opened to Kafr-el-Zayat in 1854 ; a further section throughout to Cairo was opened two years latter. This length of 120 miles involved the construction of two bridges over the Nile, one at Kafr-el-Zayat and one at Benha. Before the construction of the former bridge through traffic was ferried across the river to Cairo. From Cairo the railway was carried on to Suez, thus completing the overland route by rail. Until the opening of the Suez canal in 1869 it was a source of considerable revenue to the Egyptian State Exchequer.
(Mike's Railway History. mikes.railhistory.railfan.net/r 050.html)


The first Egyptian Railway "Historically and internationally (Egypt was) the second country after UK to have a railways. Today from 125 years on the 16th of September 1856 Egypt inaugurated the first railway in Africa and in the East. It was during Khedive Abbas I era. The Railway was from Alexandria to Cairo 209 km. Khedive Abbas I whom we rarely remember signed an agreement with Engineer Robert Stephenson to build the railways for 56,000 Pounds in 1850. In 1851 Stephenson had accepted to be Engineer-inChief to the Egyptian Railway between Alexandria and Cairo. In 1855 Stephenson inaugurated the first two moveable bridge in Egypt at Kafr Zayat and Benha ... before finalizing the huge project in 1856. "Of course I should say that this railway was not for the sake of Egypt on the contrary, Khedive Abbas I was not like his uncle or his grand father in fact he closed the schools and factories his grand father opened and lowered the number of the Egyptian soldiers in the army,the same army that rocked the East and he fought with. Abbas I whose murder is a very classical X-File did it for the British. Already the British in 1834 proposed the same idea to Mohamed Ali Pasha ,they wanted simply to secure the way to India but as usual Mohamed Ali Pasha who refused the idea of the Suez Canal for fear of foreign dominance refused the idea of railways altogether , the man knew what their plans were . ... the first Khedive vehicle from the 1856 train ...started at Alexandria to Kafr El Zayat in 1854 then it reached to Cairo in 1856 then to Assuit in 1874 and to Luxor in 1898."
http://egyptianchronicles.blogspot.com.au/2008/09/today-in-history-first-egyptian-railway.html

The Egyptian Railways before the inauguration of the Suez Canal was one of the main sources of income. ... The Egyptian State Railways Company was very prestigious company in the past, my Turkish grandfather used to work in it as an inspector but he left it after a fight with a British Person who insulted the Egyptians in his presence.

Sources : Rosa Al Youssef Daily Today in the past Column by Mr. Shafek Ahmed Ali. Robert Stephenson trust. Railways in the Nile Valley. The official website for the Egyptian National Railways. The ENR from Wikipedia. For a detailed discussion of the Egyptian National Railways, see: http://en.wikipedia.org 183377 Robert Stephenson (180359) was the engineer of Egypt's first railway In 1833 Pasha Muhammad Ali considered building a railway between Suez and Cairo to improve transit between Europe and India. Muhammad Ali had proceeded to buy the rail when the project was abandoned due to pressure by the French who had an interest in building a canal instead. ] In 1848 Muhammad Ali died, and in 1851 his successor Abbas I contracted Robert Stephenson to build Egypt's first standard gauge railway. The first section, between Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast and Kafr el-Zayyat on the Rosetta branch of the Nile was opened in 1854.[1] This was the first railway in the Ottoman Empire as well as Africa and the Middle East.[2] In the same year Abbas died and was succeeded by Sa'id Pasha, in whose reign the section between Kafr el-Zayyat and Cairo was completed in 1856 followed by an extension from Cairo to Suez in 1858.[1] This completed the first modern transport link between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, as Ferdinand de Lesseps did not complete the Suez Canal until 1869. Ahmad Rifaat Pasha (182558) drowned when his train fell off a car float into the Nile At Kafr el-Zayyat the line between Cairo and Alexandria originally crossed the Nile with an 80 feet (24 m) car float.[3] However, on 15 May 1858 a special train conveying Sa'id's heir presumptive Ahmad Rifaat Pasha fell off the float into the river and the prince was drowned.[3] Stephenson therefore replaced the car float with a swing bridge nearly 500 metres (1,600 ft) long.[3] By the end of Sa'id's reign branches had been completed from Banha to Zagazig on the Damietta branch of the Nile in 1860, to Mit Bera in 1861 and from Tanta to Talkha further down the Damietta Nile in 1863.[1] Sa'id's successor Isma'il Pasha strove to modernise Egypt and added momentum to railway development. In 1865 a new branch reached Desouk on the Rosetta Nile and a second route between Cairo and Talkha was opened, giving a more direct link between Cairo and Zagazig.[1] The following year a branch southwards from Tanta reached Shibin El Kom.[1] The network started to push southwards along the west side of the Nile with the opening of the line between Imbaba near Cairo and Minya in 1867.[4] A short branch to Faiyum was added in 1868.[4] A line between Zagazig and Suez via Nifisha was completed in the same year.[1] The following year the line to Talkha was extended to


Damietta on the Mediterranean coast and a branch opened to Salhiya and Sama'ana.[1] Imbaba had no rail bridge across the Nile to Cairo until 1891.[3] However, a long line between there and a junction west of Kafr el-Zayyat opened in 1872, linking Imbaba with the national network.[1] From Minya the line southwards made slower progress, reaching Mallawi in 1870 and Assiut in 1874.[4] On the east bank of the Nile a shorter line southwards linked Cairo with Tura in 1872 and was extended to Helwan in 1875.[1] In the Nile Delta the same year a short branch reached Kafr el-Sheikh and in 1876 a line along the Mediterranean coast linking the termini at Alexandra and Rosetta was completed.[1] For those interested in the actual bridge over the Nile, which may have been designed by the famous Stephenson, the following will provide some further information on its effect on history. "THE MUCH DEBATED ROYAL DEATH ON THE NILE by Samir Raafat Egyptian Mail, Saturday, June 11, 1994 In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire's distant pashaliks and Vilayet (provinces) were governed through a network of provincial governors, mostly generals holding the non-hereditary title of pasha. So when a little known solider from Macedonia by the name of Mohammed Ali, son of Ibrahim Aga, rose through rank and file to become Pasha Egypt from 1805 until 1849, he was quite naturally perceived by his peers as yet another ambitious provincial officer on the make. Like his counterparts in Basra, Aleppo, Bosnia and Cyrenaica, Mohammed Ali was expected to routinely report to his superiors in the Sublime Porte (Ottoman government) in Istanbul as well as contribute a hefty annual tribute to the Sultanic coffers. This, while making the necessary pledges of allegiance to his benefactor, the great Padishah (Sultan). But submission and allegiance were not among Mohammed Ali's (1769-1849) favorite characteristics. Instead, the new governor's ambitions took him on the hairy path of insurrection, a trjectory for which he and his eldest son Ibrahim Pasha (1789-1848) became famous for over the years. Had it not been for Europe's self-serving intervention on behalf of the panicking Sultan, Mohammed Ali would have assuredly crossed the Rubicon of defiance and toppled the Khan dynasty. Yet instead of the displacing the sultan in Istanbul (Constantinople), Mohammed Ali was eventually and reluctantly coerced in settling for the hereditary pashalik of Egypt together with the governorship of Sudan and accepting the subordinate title of Viceroy. Despite dynastic and geopolitical ambitions that prompted taxing military campaigns, Mohammed Ali implemented a rigorous program to modernize Egypt, steering it from the pits of economic and social abyss to the forefront of the 19th century. His capable reforms were unfortunately interrupted due to his advancing age and waning mental capacities. The viceregal throne thus passed on to his eldest son Ibrahim who ruled Egypt for less than a year. Ibrahim was succeeded by Mohammed Ali's grandson, Abbas son of Tousson who reigned until he was murdered in 1854 by his slaves. Because the Ottoman Law of Succession decreed that the throne should pass to the eldest living member of the dynasty regardless as to whether the sitting ruler had five or ten sons. This meant that as long as an older brother, uncle or nephew was alive, that person, and not the ruler's direct descendent was heir presumptive. If this system had its merits, it promoted clannishness with successive rulers making ample provisions to ensure their lines would never want for money and riches should their successors prove to be inconsiderate, selfish or squandered. Hence the throne reverted once again to one of Mohammed Ali's sons, this time to Mohammed Said Pasha, who reigned until 1863. It was during his reign, that the Suez Canal project was conceived by his childhood friend and latter day advisor, Ferdinand de Lesseps. Mohammed Said's heir-presumptive was the Viceroy's nephew, Ahmed (1825-1858) the eldest son of the late Ibrahim Pasha. But unlike Said the Munificent, Ahmed was known for his steadiness and frugality. Whether these traits would have been his attributes once seated on Egypt's throne, no one can tell since he died


prematurely in a drowning 'accident' at Kafr al-Eiss. The term accident is used here with reservation since many loose tongues would have it that Ahmed's death was orchestrated by an ambitious halfbrother, Ismail, who was next in order of succession. Or perhaps, it was lsmail's mother who willed his Ahmed's death -- the harem women were notorious for their ruthlessness when it came to protecting or promoting their son's interests. With Ismail on the throne, she would become Walda Pasha, the first lady of the realm. In any case, there were several versions surrounding this prequel to Death On The Nile. Whether it was fate or foul play which took Ahmed's life, his premature demise remains a subject for speculation to this day. Version 1 claims that some four years after his accession, Viceroy Mohammed Said gave a great fantasia at his palace in Alexandria. Commands were addressed to the princes of the house to attend even though most were reportedly in Cairo at the time. According to Pierre Crabites who had unrestrained access to the Royal Egyptian Archives in the 1930s, "they [the princes] all hurried by the sea except Ismail, who was not well. The Pasha put on a splendid show. When the festivities were over, two princes, with their retinue of about 25 friends and attendants, boarded a special train for Cairo. Midway between the two cities, the railway passes over the Nile at Kafr al-Zayat. There the river was spanned by a great bridge built by Robert Stephenson. It opened and shut to permit the passage of river craft. As the train bearing its viceregal freight approached the river, the driver saw to his horror that the bridge was open. He applied his brakes. But it was too late. The locomotive dashed into the a yawning chasm and fled into the raging flood fully fifty feet below, dragging all the carriages in its wake. Only one of the occupants escaped, Prince Mohammed Abdel Halim; all the rest were drowned." Crabites's version mentions that Ismail remained in Cairo. Version 2 is based on James Bland's biography of Prince Ahmed's grandson, Seif al-Dine. "As the train approached the Nile at Kafr al-Zayat, the English engine driver saw to his horror the swing bridge across the Nile had been left open. It was too late to prevent the ensuing catastrophe and the train dashed down the slope and fell into the river. Prince Abdel Halim (who was the late Viceroy Mohammed Ali's youngest son) escaped by forcing open the carriage door and jumping out at the instant that the carriages were trembling on the brink of the river. The others were not as fortunate, and almost all the passengers, together with Prince Ahmed, went into terrible death. Thus Ismail became heir to the throne." This second version talks of a drawbridge and compares favorably with Crabites. The divergence arises however where it states earlier that the train was traveling northwards implying it was bringing the princes to Alexandria. If this were indeed the case, instead of a fantasia and rejoicing in Alexandria, there would have been a court in mourning olus a state funeral. Moreover, this discrepancy contradicts the next version which sheds details on the fantasia that preceded the accident. In the Memoirs de Nubar Pasha (written between 1890-94 and published in Beirut with a preface by Merit Boutros Ghali) we learn that the Armenian Nubar Nubarian Bey (1826-99) was in charge of the Egyptian Railways during the period when the accident took place which was precisely on May 15, 1858, a date whcih coincides with the first day of the Small Bairam right after the month of Ramadan. The princes had arrived in Alexandria on the eve to present their compliments to the Viceroy. As they took leave to return to Cairo, Princes Ahmed and Abdel Halim asked Nubar to arrange it so they could remain on board as the train crossed the Nile at Kafr al-Zayat. There is no mention of a bridge. Instead, Nubar explains that because Stephenson's bridge was still under construction, the train wagons had to be ferried across the river on barges pulled by a steam tug. Nubar also explains how his own wife had at around the same period but on a different trip crossed the Nile by barge "not wishing to walk the distance from the western railway station to the ferry pier. Moreover, she would have to walk some more on the opposite bank to regain the eastern station." By


remaining in her carriage Madame Nubar had made a peaceful crossing by barge without ever leaving her train compartment. Nubar also states that the reason why Ismail did not accompany the other princes on their journey to Cairo was that because he "had been taken ill and was asked by his physician to remain in Alexandria. This request had nothing unusual to it." It is as though Nubar, in his memoirs, is denying rumors and accusations to the contrary. As a result of a telegram sent from Kafr al-Zayat to the attention of Nubar's office in Alexandria at around 15:00, the head of the State railways accompanied by his chief engineer Mr. Rouse, immediately set off by locomotive for the scene of the accident. There it was confirmed by the English quartermaster on duty that the princes had indeed remained inside their carriages to avoid the long walk and the crowds. Nubar learnt that three wagons had toppled off the barge and that Prince Ahmed together with Khorshid Pasha and another notable had drowned. That by jumping from the carriage door, Prince Abdel Halim had saved his own life. Based on witness accounts Nubar writes "that when the train arrived there was a gusty wind. The princes, who had remained on board, gave gratuities to the men whose task it was to push their carriage onto the barge. It was Bairam. Suddenly, there was an influx of alms seekers who helped push the wagons in anticipation of financial reward. As a result, the carriages were pushed some more and fell into the Nile at the opposite end of the barge." As though dispelling the malicious rumors, Nubar also writes that Viceroy Mohammed Said was above suspicion in view of his impeachable character. "No one could accuse the Viceroy of foul play." Since Nubar's wrote his account of the accident many years afterwards, one wonders if he was not trying to absolve Mohammed Said. Or was this the Armenian's crafty way of also deflecting suspicion from his latter day master and benefactor, Khedive Ismail. In 1879, Jerrold Blanchard presented his own account of the accident mentioning Stephenson's drawbridge at Kafr al-Zayat and that the fated voyage was made aboard a special train placed at the disposal of the princes by the Viceroy. A contemporary of Blanchard's also describes the accident in the same terms adding that it was "the courageous efforts of one of Prince Abdel Halim's servants that saved him." This of-course contradictis other reports which claim Abdel Halim survived because he was a strong swimmer. Meanwhile, a book on the history of railways in Egypt states that the entire 208 kilometer long, standard gauge single track line linking Alexandria to Cairo with its 12 railway stations was inaugurated in 1856, thus two years before the accident. The stations included the one at Kafr al-Zayat "where passengers took their meals while the coaches were transported across the Nile's Roseta Branch by ferries from Kafr al-Eiss to Kafr al-Zayat". No mention of a bridge. Conversely, the same book states that a railway bridge built by Stephenson already crossed the Nile's other branch at Benha known as the Damieta Branch crossing. Yet another book entitled 'Takwim al-Nil' by Amin Sami and which also dealing with bridges, states the Kafr al-Zayat bridge was still under construction during 1857-59. These conflicting versions regarding Prince Ahmed's fatal accident not only relate a pivotal turning point in Egypt's history, but also show how the public craved sensation and drama particularly when it involved royalty, power and technology the steam train being today's equivalent of the Concorde. When Said Pasha died on January 18, 1863, Ismail became Egypt's fifth Viceroy. Four years later, in June 1867, he became its first Khedive. And while Egypt was slowly bled to bankruptcy, Nubar Bey's financial and political fortunes flourished. Elevated to pasha status during Ismail's first year of reign, Nubar was appointed Egypt's prime minister in 1878.


Sensing perhaps that he would be perceived as a court favorite and in Ismail's debt for his rapid rise to fame, in his memoirs Nubar commiserates on how the fate of Egypt would have been so different had Ahmed survived "for unlike Ismail, Prince Ahmed was frugal wise and reserved. Had he lived, Egypt would not have had Ismail, whom destiny blinded and whose loss, and that of Egypt, seemed to be interwoven and premeditated." 6. Cataracts of the Nile. The cataracts of the Nile are shallow lengths (or white water rapids) of the Nile River, between Aswan and Khartoum, where the surface of the water is broken by many small boulders and stones protruding out of the river bed, as well as many rocky islets. In some places, these stretches are punctuated by whitewater and are perhaps well characterized as rapids, while at others the water flow is smoother, but still shallow. (Wikipedia) Sir John Fowler, was the designer of the Forth Bridge, the greatest railway bridge in the world. It is said that he advised on railways in Egypt, and went there for his health, but this was in 1869. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Notes on publication of this diary. The diary as shown here was transcribed by Mr. Jack Pattinson and typed up (I think) by Mrs. Joan Woods and a friend. The photocopied pages were sent to Tanya Geaghan Lyons (descendant of Charlotte Brentnall) by Margaret Wallace. There is also a journal with letters relating to bridges near Benalla and Avenal, Victoria from 1872 and 1873, which are apparently water damaged and difficult to read. After proceeding along this circuitous route, it has recently become available publicly by being uploaded to the Ancestry website. As the note of recognition on the typewritten version says, "the Brentnall family owes a debt of gratitude to the many people who have ensured the safe keeping of these diaries over many years." Jeanette Brentnall, Oak Beach. December, 2012
For this exercise, the diary was copied from photocopied pages downloaded from the internet and converted to Word by PDF PCR X software.