Mechanick Exercises: Or The Doctrine Of Handy-Works, was written, printed and published by Joseph Moxon between 1683 & 1685 and reprinted in 1703. Breaking away from Guild restrictions, Moxon wrote of what he knew from his experiences as a practitioner of skilled trades. A mathematician, writer, printer, publisher and maker of maps, globes and scientific instruments, Joseph Moxon was also the first tradesman to be awarded membership in the Royal Society of London.
Mechanick Exercises popularized the secrets of the skilled trades of Smithing, Joinery, House Carpentry, Turning and Bricklaying, along with the making of Sun Dials.
Mechanick Exercises is as important a reference today as a description of early skilled trades as it was in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.
