Mariners began to use barometers in the 18th century to predict changes in the weather, but it was in the 19th century that their use at sea became widespread. This English stick barometer has a mahogany case and brass fittings, including a suspension ring. Both the barometer and thermometer use mercury and have silvered brass scales. The maker’s name appears above the barometer scale, which is marked from 27 to 34 (inches of mercury) with 0.1 inch divisions, and a vernier that allows reading to 0.01 inches. The thermometer is graduated from 10° to 130°F.