Scientific American/Series 1/Volume 1/Issue 1/To the American Public

NEW-YORK, THURSDAY, AUG. 28.

To the American Public,

Patrons and Friends:

Having the pleasure of again appearing before you, though under a new title, and in new dress, we may be expected to advance some remarks on things in general, and particularly on the subject of our motives, intentions and prospects. Since the discontinuance of the "American Mechanic"—the "Elevator" of Cincinnati, "American Protector" of Hartford, and "N. Y. State Mechanic" of Albany, having previously retired,—we have been frequently solicited by enterprising mechanics, and others, to engage in the publication of a new scientific paper, for the advancement of more extensive intelligence in Arts and Trades in general, but more particularly in the several new, curious and useful arts, which have but recently been discovered and introduced. We have, moreover, received communications from various sections of the country, and especially from the South and West, expressing the opinion that a paper of this description was wanted, and would be well received and extensively patronized, if once introduced. With this encouragement, we have made arrangements to furnish the intelligent and liberal workingmen, and those who delight in the development of those beauties of Nature, which consist in the laws of Mechanics, Chemistry, and other branches of Natural Philosophy—with a paper that will instruct while it diverts or amuses them, and will retain its excellence and value, when political and ordinary newspapers are thrown aside and forgotten.

In conducting this publication, we shall endeavour to avoid all expressions of sentiment, on any sectional, sectarian, or political party subject; but shall exercise a full share of independence, in the occasional exposure of ignorance and knavery, especially when we find them sheltered by arrogance and aristocracy. We shall present no gloomy catalogues of crime and depravity, believing that the cause of neither happiness nor morality will be thereby promoted;—our object being to please and enlighten. We shall advocate the pure Christian religion, without favouring any particular sect; and shall make it a point to adhere to reason and common sense, independently of the opinions of those, whose interests and popularity depend on their rigid adherence to traditional doctrines, and church creeds.

With these sentiments and intentions, respected Friends and 'Sovereign People,' and with full confidence in your good-will and generous support—not in the least doubting, however, that you will consult your own interests quite as much as ours in the matter—we commend to your favour and patronage the to "SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN."

EDITOR.