The passing of carriages on the street did not affect these vibrations of the column, for they continued in the same manner when those vehicles were not passing. While the oscillations were going on, I took a sledge and struck some half a dozen blows on an anvil block in the workshop, which did not make any perceptible difference in the movements of the column; after it had come to rest, the same experiment was repeated, but the column did not in any manner react to the concussion thus produced. 1861. During 1861 there has been but one earthquake recorded in the State. July 4th, 16h. 11m.—A severe shock of earthquake occurred at San Francisco. It consisted of three distinct waves following each other in very rapid succession. Its effects to the east of the city in the San Ramon Valley were more severe. Near the house of Mr. Larabie it opened a large fissure in the earth. In the vicinity of Mr. Porter’s it opened a new spring of water, and a small running stream was also caused near Mr. Hunt’s. For several days after, light shocks were repeated at intervals. 1862. September 29th, 15h. 5m.—A very smart shock of earthquake at San Francisco. This was felt at Petaluma. December 23d, 20h. 19m.—A smart shock at San Francisco. 1863. During the year 1863 we have had five earthquakes, and unmarked by any serious event. January 25th, 2h. 20m.—A severe shock was experienced at San Diego, continuing from five to eight seconds. There was no undulation in this instance, the shock consisting of a series of sharp jars. It was preceded by a profound rumbling sound. February 1st, 16h. 1m.—A very smart shock at the Mission San Juan, Monterey County. At Gilroys the shock was felt (or another) fifteen minutes later. The latter town is near twelve miles east of the Mission. At both localities the motion was undulatory. The shock was not felt at Monterey, twelve miles west of San Juan. June.—A smart shock at San Francisco. July 15th, 10h. 19m.—A smart shock at San Francisco. August 1st, 11h. 6m.—Two light shocks at San Francisco about one hour apart.