Science & Mathematics - Overview
The Museum's collections hold thousands of objects related to chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, and other sciences. Instruments range from early American telescopes to lasers. Rare glassware and other artifacts from the laboratory of Joseph Priestley, the discoverer of oxygen, are among the scientific treasures here. A Gilbert chemistry set of about 1937 and other objects testify to the pleasures of amateur science. Artifacts also help illuminate the social and political history of biology and the roles of women and minorities in science.
The mathematics collection holds artifacts from slide rules and flash cards to code-breaking equipment. More than 1,000 models demonstrate some of the problems and principles of mathematics, and 80 abstract paintings by illustrator and cartoonist Crockett Johnson show his visual interpretations of mathematical theorems.
"Science & Mathematics - Overview" showing 1 items.
Comptometer Section - Super Totalizer
- Description
- This model has two columns of white plastic keys and one column of green keys. Odd-numbered digit keys are concave, and even-numbered ones, flat. At the front, there are two aluminum numeral wheels on one shaft, and two on a second shaft in front of the first one. Two metal levers are on the right side, perhaps for zeroing. A shaft with a rubber handle is on the left side at the back. This is a study model of the supertotalizer motor-driven double register Comptometer. This form of Comptometer was invented by J. A. V. Turck. According to a label received with the collection, this model was built in 1943. It has no case.
- Reference:
- Accession Journal 1991.3107.06.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1943
- maker
- Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company
- ID Number
- MA*323639
- catalog number
- 323639
- accession number
- 250163
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History, Kenneth E. Behring Center