Page:Pyrotechnics the history and art of firework making (1922).djvu/166

 CHAPTER I

SIMPLE FIREWORKS—ROCKET CLASS

In the preceding chapters we have been dealing with displays of fireworks, that is to say; fireworks in the mass. We will now turn our attention to the firework units composing those displays, and endeavour to trace their gradual evolution from the crude originals.

Fireworks may be divided into two classes, simple and compound. The first of these include fireworks which are a complete item in themselves, as the rocket, shell, or Roman candle; also the units which, fitted on a framework, go to compose the set pieces and devices of a display, and the small shop goods not used in displays. We will consider this class first.

The two oldest forms of fireworks known are undoubtedly the cracker and the rocket. As we have already noted, both of these—or at least primitive forms—are mentioned by Marcus Graecus, Albertus, and Roger Bacon. The description by the former is sufficiently clear to leave no doubt in our minds that he is describing a rocket; although the description of a cracker is not so explicit as to enable us to say that he is actually describing a jumping cracker, yet his mention of folding and tying would certainly give colour to that belief. In fact, some writers have endeavoured to find a connection between the words "Graecus" and "Cracker."

Greene, in "Orlando Furioso" (1599), uses the words, "Yes, yes, with squibs and crackers brauly," John Bate, in his book previously mentioned, under the somewhat misleading heading, "How to make Crackers," says: "It is well knowne that every boy can make these, therefore I think it