Originally published in 1895 and revised in 1900, Practical Hot Water Heating, Steam and Gas Fitting: Acetylene Gas—How Generated, How Used was written by James Joseph Lawler and George Tilden Hanchett.

The book served as an illustrated reference for plumbers, steam fitters, heating professionals, builders, and engineers. It covers hot-water circulation, steam-heating systems, boilers, radiators, pipe sizing, valves, gas fitting, system testing, and other practical aspects of installing and maintaining heating equipment.

A significant portion of the book also examines acetylene gas. Produced by combining calcium carbide with water, acetylene created a bright flame and became an important source of lighting around the turn of the 20th century, particularly in locations without access to electricity. The authors discuss how the gas was generated, stored, distributed, and used while also addressing the precautions required for its safe handling.

Displayed in the Power Mechanical Steam Museum, this book illustrates the relationship between steam, heating, piping, and early gas technology. It also preserves the practical knowledge used by the tradespeople responsible for installing and maintaining these systems more than a century ago.