I am trying to date an early water sprinkler system. Water filled,
teardrop-shaped leaded glass globes are placed on a beam in the
attic. A thin strip of copper wire is coiled around the neck of each
globe which, in the event of a fire, would heat to such a degree that
the glass would shatter and (theoretically) the water would then
extinguish the fire. The house where this system was found is
located in New Jersey and is dated ca. 1680 with 18th and 19th
century additions. Any references to information on this type of
fire supression system would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.