#2, Jan. 13, 1938, P. 13: Cobblestone Wall
Although cobblestones have been considerably used in many parts of the country in the erection of buildings, here their application to such a purpose is entirely new, --two or three buildings only have been constructed of them, and those during the present season. But if they will make a permanent wall, it is hight time they were more resorted to for that purpose, for their extreme plenty here, would render therm far cheaper than brick of flat stone -- almost as cheap as wood, in the erection of dwelling houses. What would look better, and be better, on our farm than stables, turnip houses, piggeries, etc. constructed of a material which would not perish in ages, and which could be obtained and put up at an expense within the reach of almost every independent farmer! The stone must be picked up at all events, and we might as well put them together for a building, as to cart them to some pit or put them in the road, --and we might as well employ then for some useful purpose, as to throw them away. But will these walls stand? -- and if so, how are the constructed? Will someone who feels qualified to do it, answer these questions -- giving the proper proportion of the mortar, and such details as would be useful to those unacquainted with the subject.
In response to the above, this very insightful letter to the editor appeared in The Genesee Farmer, March 3, 1838, Vol. 8 No. 9
Building Cobble Stone Houses
Mr. Tucker - I observed in the Monthly Genesee Farmer of February, a request for some one who was qualified to answer the inquiry concerning the manner of building cobble stone walls, of their durability, the proportion of the mortar, the expense of building, etc.
Having had some experience in this business, I cheerfully transmit a few facts relative to the foregoing request.
Having erected two or three buildings each season, for several years past, I shall only mention one which I built last season. It is 40 feet by 60, four stories high. The foundation is three feet high, the first story 10 8-12 feet high, the second 11 2-12 feet high, the third 13 3-12 feet, the fourth story 10 3-12 high; making from the foundation to the plates 48 4-12 feet in height, with a wing 24 by 34, one story. The whole was built of cobblestone, (not of the first quality). The outside was laid in courses of cobble stone four inches in thickness, and larger stone on the inside.
It is a steam flouring mill and has been in operation three months. It stands perfectly well - it is situated in the village of Palmyra, on Canal-street. As regards their durability, if they are laid with good materials and in a workmanlike manner, I am perfectly convinced they will stand and their solidity will increase as their age increases.
The quality and quantity of sand with the lime is very essential. The coarser and purer the sand, the stronger will be the cement and the firmer the wall. As for the proper quantity of sand with the lime, it depends on its coarseness and purity. The proportion which I generally use is from five to eight bushels of sand to one of lime in the stone. As for elegance and taste, every one who has seen a cobble stone building built as it should be, will acknowledge that it surpasses quarry stone or brick buildings.
As for the expense of building, it is cheaper than almost any other kind of building. If the above, after such corrections as you may deem expedient, will be of use to your readers, let it have a place in your paper; if not, throw it under the table; suit yourself and you will suit.
Your ob't servant,
Chester Clark
Marion, (N.Y.) Feb. 27, 1838.