Intriguing document from the archives of the North British Railway, circa 1893. This invoice letter concerns a shipment of creosote oil, a substance used in maritime construction to waterproof wooden structures. As its name suggests, the oil is derived from coal tar and is an essential component of the railroad's efforts to maintain its infrastructure.
The seller, Methil Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company, has arranged for the transportation of 100 drums of creosote oil from the North British Railway depot in Glasgow to the company's facility in Methil. The invoice details the quantity of oil, its price, and the terms of payment. It is clear that this transaction was significant, with the railway paying a substantial sum for the oil.
The document is remarkably well-preserved, considering its age and the fact that it has been stored in a dry, secure environment. As such, it offers a rare glimpse into the business practices of the time, providing valuable insight into the development of maritime construction materials.
