Science & Mathematics

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.

In the early nineteenth century, lighthouses in the United States were considered inferior to those in France and England.
Description
In the early nineteenth century, lighthouses in the United States were considered inferior to those in France and England. American mariners complained about the quality of the light emanating from local lighthouse towers, arguing that European lighthouses were more effective at shining bright beams of light over long distances. While American lighthouses relied on lamps and mirrors to direct mariners, European lighthouses were equipped with compact lenses that could shine for miles.
In 1822, French scientist Augustin-Jean Fresnel was studying optics and light waves. He discovered that by arranging a series of lenses and prisms into the shape of a beehive, the strength of lighthouse beams could be improved. His lens—known as the Fresnel lens—diffused light into beams that could be visible for miles. Fresnel designed his lenses in several different sizes, or orders. The first order lens, meant for use in coastal lighthouses, was the largest and the strongest lens. The sixth order lens was the smallest, designed for use in small harbors and ports.
By the 1860s, all of the lighthouses in the United States were fitted with Fresnel lenses. This lens came from a lighthouse on Bolivar Point, near Galveston, Texas. Galveston was the largest and busiest port in nineteenth-century Texas. Having a lighthouse here was imperative – the mouth of the bay provided entry to Houston and Texas City, as well as inland waterways. The Bolivar Point Light Station had second and third order Fresnel lenses over the years; this third order lens was installed in 1907. Its light could be seen from 17 miles away.
On 16-17 August 1915, a severe hurricane hit Galveston. As the storm grew worse, fifty to sixty people took refuge in the Bolivar Point Light Station. Around 9:15 PM, the light’s turning mechanism broke, forcing assistant lighthouse keeper J.B. Brooks to turn the Fresnel lens by hand. By 10 PM, the vibrations from the hurricane were so violent that Brooks began to worry the lens might shatter. He ceased turning the lens, trimmed the lamp wicks and worked to maintain a steady light through the night. The next morning, Brooks left the lighthouse to find Bolivar Point nearly swept away by the water.
Bolivar Point Light Station used this Fresnel lens until 1933. It was donated to the Smithsonian Institution by the National Park Service.
date made
1822
late 1800s
all United States lighthouses outfitted with Fresnel lenses
1860s
lens used during a severe hurricane at Bolivar Point
1917-08-16 - 1917-08-17
donated to Smithsonian
1933
inventor
Fresnel, Augustin Jean
ID Number
TR.335567
catalog number
335567
accession number
1977.0626
This German silver and steel instrument has a white celluloid measuring wheel and vernier. It is in the general style of an Amsler fixed-scale planimeter, but it has no registering dial.
Description
This German silver and steel instrument has a white celluloid measuring wheel and vernier. It is in the general style of an Amsler fixed-scale planimeter, but it has no registering dial. The 4" tracer arm and 6" pole arm are connected by a hinge and form a circle around the measuring wheel when the instrument is closed. The cylindrical weight is screwed to a short revolving arm that is screwed on top of the pole arm. The lengths of the arms are not adjustable.
A wooden case covered with black leather is lined with black velvet. White trim is around the inside edges of the case. A small piece of paper glued inside the bottom of the case is marked: 0.01 [square] in.
There is no mark for a maker or distributor, but this instrument closely resembles a planimeter sold by the Eugene Dietzgen Company in 1926 as model 1800 for $17.75. Compare to MA.318485.
The instrument was received at the Smithsonian in 1989.
Reference: Catalog of Eugene Dietzgen Co., 12th ed. (Chicago, 1926), 180.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
ID Number
1989.0305.01
accession number
1989.0305
catalog number
1989.0305.01
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one.
Description
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one. This model is the seventh in a series of kinematic models sold by the German firm of Schilling to show a mechanical method for generating mathematical curves.
The cycloid solves the 17th-century problem posed by Swiss mathematician Johann Bernoulli known as the brachistochrone problem. This problem asks for the shape of the curve of fastest decent: the path that a ball would travel the fastest along under the influence of gravity.
The cycloids are drawn by tracing the location of a point on the radius of a circle or its extension as the circle rolls along a straight line. Cycloids are members of the family of curves known as trochoids, curves that are generated by tracing the motion of a point on the radius of a circle as it rolls along another curve. The curve generated by a point on the circumference of the rolling circle is called an epicycloid, and a ball rolling on this curve (inverted) would travel faster than on any other path (the brachistochrone problem). Points either inside or outside the rolling circle generate curves called epitrochoids. The cycloid also solves the tautochrone problem, a curve for which a ball placed anywhere on the curve will reach the bottom under gravity in the same amount of time.
An example of the application of the cycloid as a solution of the tautochrone problem is the pendulum clock designed by Dutch physicist Christopher Huygens. As the width of the swing of the pendulum decreases over time due to friction and air resistance, the time of the swing remains constant. Also, cycloidal curves are used in the shaping of gear teeth to reduce torque and improve efficiency.
This model consists of a toothed metal disc linked to a bar that is toothed along one edge. A radius of the circle extending away from the bar has a place for a pin inside the circumference, a pin on the circumference, and a pin outside the circle. Rotating a crank below the baseplate of the model moves the circle along the edge of the bar, generating a curve above each point. The curves are indicated on the glass overlay of the mechanism. The curve generated by the point on the circumference of the circle is an epicycloid, depicted in blue on the glass; that generated by the point outside the circle is a prolate (from the Latin to elongate) cycloid, depicted in orange; and that generated by the point inside the circle is a curtate (from the Latin to shorten) cycloid, depicted in green. The German title of this model it: Erzeugung von Cycloiden (to produce cycloids).
References:
Schilling, Martin, Catalog Mathematischer Modelle für den höheren mathatischen Unterricht, Halle a.s., Germany, 1911, pp 56-57. Series 24, group II, model 7.
Online demo at Wofram Mathworld: http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Cycloid.html
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Schilling, Martin
ID Number
1982.0795.05
catalog number
1982.0795.05
accession number
1982.0795
This German silver instrument is a curved bar with a short arm, on which a short cylindrical weight is placed, and a longer arm, to which a tracer point is screwed. The middle of the bar has a thin cross-rod, on which a measuring wheel rotates against a wedge-shaped vernier.
Description
This German silver instrument is a curved bar with a short arm, on which a short cylindrical weight is placed, and a longer arm, to which a tracer point is screwed. The middle of the bar has a thin cross-rod, on which a measuring wheel rotates against a wedge-shaped vernier. The wheel is numbered from 0 to 14, with each unit divided into five parts. The vernier is corroded and may be a different type of metal from the rest of the instrument. The bar is marked: THE ASHCROFT MFG. CO. (/) — SOLE MANUFACTURERS. — (/) COFFIN'S PAT. JUNE 6. 1882. The underside of the bar is marked: No. 1423. The serial number suggests this object is not as old as MA.323705.
A wooden case is covered with dark brown leather and lined with purple silk and velvet. The top of the case is marked: MADE BY (/) THE ASHCROFT MANF'G CO. (/) NEW YORK & BRIDGEPORT.
John Coffin of Syracuse, N.Y., applied for a patent on this variation on a planimeter in July 1881. He designed his "averageometer" to calculate areas in diagrams of work performed by steam engines. The Ashcroft Manufacturing Company of New York City and Bridgeport, Conn., was the first of several American firms to make the device. Ashcroft, best known for making pressure gauges for steam engines, often sold the arm for Coffin's planimeter separately from its base, as in this example. In 1910, Frederick C. Blanchard, Ernest B. Crocker, and Philip G. Darling, who all probably worked for Ashcroft, patented an improvement to Coffin's planimeter so that it could be clamped in place. The planimeters made by Ashcroft after 1910 utilized this improvement, so this example was made between 1882 and 1910.
In 1912, company founder Edward H. Ashcroft sold his interest to Charles A. Moore, who renamed the firm Manning, Maxwell, and Moore (MM&M). Dresser Industries, Inc., purchased MM&M in 1964. Ashcroft survived as a brand name.
The instrument was found in the collections in about 1981.
References: John Coffin, "Averageometer, or Instrument for Measuring the Average Breadth of Irregular Planes" (U.S. Patent 258,993 issued June 6, 1882); N. Hawkins, Hawkins' Indicator Catechism (New York: Theo. Audel & Co., 1903), 140–142; James Ambrose Moyer, Power Plant Testing (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1911), 73–78; David R. Green, "Coffin Planimeters," June 16, 2008, http://www.planimetervault.com/coffin.html; Richard Oliver, "Ashcroft Manufacturing Co. History," http://www.clockguy.com/SiteRelated/SiteReferencePages/AshcroftManufacturingCoHistory.html.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1882-1910
maker
Ashcroft Mfg. Co.
ID Number
1987.0107.03
catalog number
1987.0107.03
accession number
1987.0107
This paper, brass, and wood cylindrical slide rule has 20 sets of A, B, and C scales, with each set 47 cm in length.
Description
This paper, brass, and wood cylindrical slide rule has 20 sets of A, B, and C scales, with each set 47 cm in length. The scales are printed on paper that is glued around a sliding brass drum (with wooden handles) and on brass slats that are attached to a round brass frame on either end. The frame is screwed to a wooden base. A sheet of instructions for THACHER'S CALCULATING INSTRUMENT is glued along the top front of the base.
The right side of the paper on the drum is marked in italics: Patented by Edwin Thatcher [sic], C.E. Nov. 1st 1881. Divided by W. F. Stanley, London, 1882. Made by Keuffel & Esser Co. N.Y. A small silver metal tag affixed to the front right of the base is engraved: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (/) NEW-YORK (/) 663. Wayne Feely has suggested that K&E began manufacturing (as opposed to simply distributing) Thacher cylindrical slide rules in 1887, indicating 1887 is the earliest date for this example of the instrument. The latest date for the instrument is 1900, because K&E changed the design of the brass frame at that time.
The object is contained in a wooden case that bears no identifying marks. According to the accession file, the rule was found in a Smithsonian collections storage locker in the Arts & Industries Building about 1964.
See also MA.312866.
Reference: Wayne E. Feely, "Thacher Cylindrical Slide Rules," The Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 50 (1997): 125–127
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1887-1900
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
1987.0107.08
catalog number
1987.0107.08
accession number
1987.0107
In 1851 Scottish civil engineer John Sang (1809–1887) exhibited a form of rolling planimeter at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London.
Description
In 1851 Scottish civil engineer John Sang (1809–1887) exhibited a form of rolling planimeter at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London. He called the instrument a "planometer," which he changed to "platometer" when he described the instrument to the Royal Scottish Society of Arts a few months later. Like all planimeters, this object measures the area bounded by a closed curve. Sang's device is also significant because it inspired James Clerk Maxwell to work on planimeters, which in turn gave James and William Thomson ideas that helped them develop a mechanical integrator.
This example is an improved version of Sang's original instrument. A brass cone is on a steel rod that connects two brass rollers. An open brass frame surrounds the rod. It has four brass rollers that slide along a brass base to which the rod is anchored. The frame has a tracer with an ivory handle, a silver measuring wheel that rolls against the side of the cone, and a small magnifying glass. The handle on the tracer arm and the construction of the measuring wheel are changed from Sang's original design.
The measuring wheel rotates only when the tracer arm's movement is perpendicular to the axis of the cone. The rate at which the wheel moves depends on its distance from the vertex of the cone. For example, when the tracer arm moves a distance S perpendicular to the axis, its reading changes by an amount equal to the area of a rectangle with sides equal to S times the distance from the vertex. The instrument is in a wooden case.
This object was received at the Smithsonian in 1983.
References: John Sang, "Description of a Platometer, an Instrument for Measuring the Areas of Figures Drawn on Paper," Transactions of the Royal Scottish Society of Arts 4 (1852): 119–129; "Description of Sang's Platometer, or Self-Acting Calculator of Surface," Journal of the Franklin Institute 23 (1852): 238–241; Charles Care, "Illustrating the History of the Planimeter" (Undergraduate 3rd Year Project, University of Warwick, 2004), 39–44; Charles Care, "A Chronology of Analogue Computing," The Rutherford Journal 2 (2006–2007), http://www.rutherfordjournal.org/article020106.html.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1850s
maker
Sang, John
ID Number
1983.0474.02
accession number
1983.0474
catalog number
1983.0474.02
This instrument is in the shape of a hollow octagonal prism. A pair of dividers (measuring 10.6 x 1.3 x 1.2 cm) screws into one end. One leg of the dividers may be removed and placed in a hole at the other end of the scale.
Description
This instrument is in the shape of a hollow octagonal prism. A pair of dividers (measuring 10.6 x 1.3 x 1.2 cm) screws into one end. One leg of the dividers may be removed and placed in a hole at the other end of the scale. A slide then moves the leg back and forth for use as a scriber.
A scale appears on each face of the instrument: inches (divided to 1/10" and numbered from 1 to 6); chords; sines; tangents; equal parts of 30, 25, and 20 to the inch; and "calibre." Many of these scales appeared on sectors; like those instruments, this object would have been used for surveying, architectural drawing, and artillery positioning.
The face with the calibre scale is marked: G. Adams LONDON. In 1734, George Adams Sr. (1709–1772) established a workshop on Fleet Street. From 1756 the firm fulfilled hundreds of commissions as instrument maker to His Majesty's Office of Ordnance. George Adams Jr. (1750–1795) took over the business after his father's death, with help from his mother, Ann, for the first couple of years. Although he retained the ordnance commissions, these became less profitable over time and the firm was in debt when he died. George Jr.'s wife, Hannah, sold the remaining stock and tools in 1796. Father and son both used the signature "G. Adams," so this instrument cannot be dated precisely.
References: Gloria Clifton, Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550–1851 (London: National Maritime Museum, 1995), 2–3; John R. Millburn, Adams of Fleet Street: Instrument Makers to King George III (Burlington, Vt.: Ashgate, 2000); Adler Planetarium, Webster Signature Database, http://historydb.adlerplanetarium.org/signatures/.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1750–1795
maker
Adams, George
ID Number
1987.0379.01
accession number
1987.0379
catalog number
1987.0379.01
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one.
Description
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one. This model is the eighth in a series of kinematic models sold by the German firm of Schilling to show a mechanical method for generating mathematical curves.
Many machines need to produce a back and forth motion, such as the back and forth motion of the rods of a locomotive that drives the wheels. This back and forth motion is achieved by converting circular motion (produced by the pistons of the steam engine) to linear motion (of the rods). One way of achieving this in a smooth way is through a quick return mechanism. This model uses two ellipses that are held in constant contact, producing an “elliptical gear.”
As one ellipse rotates around the other, the distance between the fixed focus of one ellipse and the free focus of the other remains constant. This can be seen in the model by the placement of the arm. As the ellipses rotate about each other, the speed of rotation increase as the ellipses move towards a side-by-side orientation, and slows as the ellipses move towards an end-to-end alignment. Thus the velocity increases and decreases periodically as the ellipses rotate. The velocity ratio of the rotating gear is the portion of the length of the top arm over one ellipse divided by the remaining length (over the other ellipse.) Mathematically this velocity ratio varies from e/(1-e) to (1-e)/e where e is the eccentricity of the (congruent) ellipses. The cyclic nature of the velocity of this motion is known as a “quick-return” mechanism, which converts rotational motion into reciprocating or oscillating motion.
This model employs two identical elliptical metal plates (major axis 8 cm, minor axis 5 cm). Both ellipses were fixed to the baseplate at their right foci (though one ellipse is now detached) while the other foci are free. This allows the two ellipses to rotate around each other while remaining in contact. An 8 cm rigid arm connects the fixed foci of one ellipse to the free foci of the other.
Beneath the free foci of the left ellipse is a metal point. As the (now missing) crank below the baseplate is rotated, the point traces out a circle on the paper covering of the baseplate. Using the thumb hold at the midpoint of the arm, the two ellipses can be made to rotate around each other. A small ball-type joint at the ends of the major axis of each ellipse allows the two ellipses to join together when they are aligned end-to-end. The German title of the model is: Gleichläufiges Zwillingskubelgetriebe mit seinen Polbahnen (same shape transmitted by twin cranks with their poles).
References:
Cundy, H. M., Rollett, A. P., Mathematical Models, Oxford University Press, 1961, pp. 230-233.
Schilling, Martin, Catalog Mathematischer Modelle für den höheren mathatischen Unterricht, Halle a.s., Germany, 1911, pp. 56-57. Series 24, group III, model 8.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Schilling, Martin
ID Number
1982.0795.06
catalog number
1982.0795.06
accession number
1982.0795
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one.
Description
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one. This model is the ninth in a series of kinematic models sold by the German firm of Schilling to show a mechanical method for generating mathematical curves.
This model is an example of a Watt’s linkage. Linkages are joined rods that move freely about pivot points used to produce a certain type of motion. A pair of fireplace pincers is an example of a very simple linkage. Producing straight line motion was an important component of many machines. But producing true linear motion is very difficult and one area of research during the 19th century was to use linkages to produce linear motion from circular motion. Scottsman James Watt (1736-1819), devised linkages to create linear motion for use in early steam engines. A Watt’s linkage is a three-bar linkage in which two bars of equal length rotate to produce congruent circles. The ends of these two radii are joined by a longer crossbar. As the radii counter-rotate, the midpoint of the crossbar traces out a Watt’s Curve.
Watt’s Curve is related to the lemniscate, or a figure-eight-shaped curve. However, Watt’s Curve resembles a figure eight that has been compressed vertically so that the two lobes appear as circles that are flattened where they meet. As the midpoint of the crossbar traces the region of the lemniscate where the curve crosses itself, the motion is approximately linear.
This model consists of two identical components (“bowties”), each comprised of two rounded hyperbolic metal plates (13 cm base, 5.5 cm altitude) joined by an armature of 9 cm. One bowtie is mounted on top of and offset by 7 cm from the bottom bowtie. An armature attaches the vertex of one plate to the vertex of its corresponding plate below. A crank below the baseplate connects to one arm. When the crank is rotated, the two connecting arms rotate in opposing circular paths, causing the top bowties to follow a roughly figure eight path. As each arm rotates through 180 degrees, the bowties align first to the left, then to the right. The German title is of this model it: Gegenläufiges Zwillingskubelgetriebe mit seinen Polbahnen.
References:
Guillet, George, Kinematics of Machines, John Wiley & Sons, N.Y., 1930, pp. 217, 218.
Watt’s Curve, Mathworld, http://mathworld.wolfram.com/WattsCurve.html
Schilling, Martin, Catalog Mathematischer Modelle für den höheren mathatischen Unterricht, Halle a.s., Germany, 1911, pp 56-57. Series 24, group III, model 9.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Schilling, Martin
ID Number
1982.0795.07
catalog number
1982.0795.07
accession number
1982.0795
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one.
Description
Around 1900, American mathematicians introduced ideas to their students using physical models like this one. This model is the sixth in a series of kinematic models sold by the German firm of Schilling to show a mechanical method for generating mathematical curves.
An involute of a circle is a curve that is produced by tracing the end of a string that is wrapped around a circle as it is unwound while being kept taut. It is the envelope of all points that are perpendicular to the tangents of a circle.
As with the three trochoidal models, these curves were used in the shaping of gear teeth in the 18th century. Following that, it was discovered that shaping the teeth of gears using the curve formed by the involute of a circle also increases the efficiency of gearage. Surprisingly, there are many applications of noncircular gears, such as elliptical, triangular, and quadrilateral gears. (See model 1982.0795.06.)
In this model a toothed circular gear of radius 13 mm is mounted on the baseplate and can be turned via a crank on the underside of the baseplate. A thick piece of beveled glass is mounted above the apparatus. A dark metal toothed bar 45 mm long is attached to the circular gear so that as the crank turns the circular gear, the toothed bar is forced past the circular gear and rotates round it.
Perpendicular to the bar is a thin clip with three small colored balls. A blue ball is attached at the edge of the bar where the bar will touch the circle and traces the involute of the circle in blue on the glass. A red ball is placed 33mm in front of the toothed side of the bar and produces a “stretched” involute in red. A green ball is 45mm behind the toothed side of the bar traces another “stretched” involute in green. German title is: Erzeugung von Kreisevolventen.
References:
Schilling, Martin, Catalog Mathematischer Modelle für den höheren mathatischen Unterricht, Halle a.s., Germany, 1911, pp 56-57. Series 24, group II, model 6.
Online demo at Mathworld by Wolfram: http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Involute.html
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Schilling, Martin
ID Number
1982.0795.04
catalog number
1982.0795.04
accession number
1982.0795
This tarnished German silver instrument has two arms pivoted at one end. One arm has a tracer point and index marks for four ratios: 1 square D. (centimeters or meters, perhaps), 15 square inches, 10 square inches, and 10 square chains.
Description
This tarnished German silver instrument has two arms pivoted at one end. One arm has a tracer point and index marks for four ratios: 1 square D. (centimeters or meters, perhaps), 15 square inches, 10 square inches, and 10 square chains. A screw assembly adjusts the length of the tracer arm. A support for the tracer point prevents it from tearing the paper. Two numbers are stamped underneath the arm: 31, which appears to overstamp the number 33, and 690.
The other arm is jointed. A cylindrical weight may be placed in the end of that arm. Underneath the weight is marked: 35. The jointed part of the arm is marked: KEUFFEL & ESSER Co N.Y. Underneath the arm is stamped: 31. A carriage at the pivot holds a white plastic measuring wheel with vernier and a horizontal metal registering dial.
A mahogany case has dark blue velvet lining the supports. A leather pouch holds the weight. A paper chart for adjusting the tracer arm is held in the lid by black plastic edges and brass screws. The columns are labeled: Proportion, Adjustement [sic] on tracer-arm, and Value of unit of the Vernier. "Sq. units" is handwritten above the first entry in the Proportion column (1:1,000). The vernier entry for proportion 1:4,000 has been changed from 100 to 160 square meters.
Keuffel & Esser sold this planimeter as model 1102 from 1892 to 1901 and as model 4220 from 1901 to 1936. It sold for $28.00 in 1909 and for $45.50 in 1936. The serial number, 690, and lack of rectangular support for the joint in the weighted arm suggest that this example was made later than 1981.0348.01. Wesleyan University donated this planimeter to the Museum in 1984–1985 with a large collection of plaster and string mathematical models purchased in 1895 from the Darmstadt, Germany, firm of L. Brill.
This instrument was received at the Smithsonian in 1985 or 1985.
References: Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser, 33rd ed. (New York, 1909), 319; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser, 38th ed. (New York, 1936), 336; Clark McCoy, "Collection of Pages from K&E Catalogs for the 4220 Family of Polar Planimeters," http://www.mccoys-kecatalogs.com/PlanimeterModels/ke4220family.htm.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1901-1936
distributor
Keuffel & Esser Co.
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
1985.0112.218
catalog number
1985.0112.218
accession number
1985.0112
This instrument consists of a wooden cylinder covered with paper scales, wooden handles at the ends of the cylinder, and a metal sleeve lined with felt. The sleeve, which is painted maroon, holds the cylinder.
Description
This instrument consists of a wooden cylinder covered with paper scales, wooden handles at the ends of the cylinder, and a metal sleeve lined with felt. The sleeve, which is painted maroon, holds the cylinder. Running the length of the sleeve are a slot 1.5 cm wide and a paper scale.
The instrument is marked on the paper covering the cylinder: “WEBB’S STADIA SLIDE RULE”, (/) DESIGNED BY WALTER LORING WEBB, C. E. (/) MANUFACTURED BY KEUFFEL & ESSER CO., N.Y. It also is marked there: DIRECTIONS. SLIDE THE CYLINDER UNTIL ONE END OF THE CYLINDER IS SET AT THE DISTANCE MARK ON THE SCALE AND SO THAT THE GIVEN ANGLE OF ELEVATION ALSO COMES TO SOME PART OF THE SCALE. THE REQUIRED QUANTITY IS 1/10 (1/100 or 1/1000, AS SHOWN BY THE MARK ON CYLINDER) OF THE SCALE READING AT THAT ANGLE MARK.
The stadia slide rule was used in topographical surveying to determine the elevation and geographical position of points and objects. Initially, a chain and compass or transit had been used to determine geographical position, with a level employed to obtain relative elevations. Greater efficiency in these measurements was then found by using a plane-table.
In about 1864, the U.S. Lake Survey adopted a third system, first used in Italy about 1820. A stadia rod was placed at the point of interest and sighted through the telescope of a transit. The distance to this point was found by observing the portion of the graduated rod shown between certain cross-hairs of the telescope. To find the elevation of the point, one examined the vertical angle on the vertical circle of the transit when the telescope was aimed at a point on the stadia rod that was the same height off the ground as the telescope. A stadia slide rule was then used for data reduction.
Keuffel & Esser of New York introduced a 20-inch linear stadia slide rule in 1895. It sold under various model numbers (1749, 4101, N-4101) until 1952. In 1897, the firm introduced a 50-inch linear stadia slide rule designed by Branch H. Colby of St. Louis. Colby's stadia slide rule (model number 1749-3, later 4125) sold until 1903. Textbook authors such as John Butler Johnson endorsed the rule, but it was awkward to carry in the field.
Walter Loring Webb (1863–1941), a civil engineer who graduated from Cornell University and taught there and at the University of Pennsylvania, proposed a rule that had parallel scales arranged on a cylinder, reducing the length of the instrument to about 16 inches. K&E sold Webb's stadia slide rule for $5.00 from 1903 to 1923.
One end of the sleeve is painted: 1803. This may be an inventory number from the University of Missouri's Department of Civil Engineering, which donated the instrument in 1972. The university began teaching civil engineering in 1859, and its School of Engineering was renamed the College of Engineering in 1877.
See also 1983.0472.01. For circular stadia slide rules, see MA.336425, 1987.0221.01, and 2002.0282.01.
References: John Butler Johnson, The Theory and Practice of Surveying, 16th ed. (New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1908), 237ff; Walter Loring Webb, Railroad Construction: Theory and Practice, 7th ed. (New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1922), 22–23; Wayne E. Feely, "K & E Slide Rules," The Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 49, no. 5 (1996): 50–52; Catalogue and Price List of Keuffel & Esser Co., 31st ed. (New York, 1903), 308; Mark C. Meade, "A History of the College of Engineering at the University of Missouri – Columbia," Archives of the University of Missouri, http://muarchives.missouri.edu/c-rg9-eng.html.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1903-1923
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
MA.333636
accession number
300659
catalog number
333636
This is the U.S. patent model for a cylindrical slide rule invented by George Fuller (1829–1907), a British civil engineer and professor of engineering at Queen's College, Belfast. Fuller received patents in Great Britain (no. 1044) in 1878 and in the United States in 1879. W.
Description
This is the U.S. patent model for a cylindrical slide rule invented by George Fuller (1829–1907), a British civil engineer and professor of engineering at Queen's College, Belfast. Fuller received patents in Great Britain (no. 1044) in 1878 and in the United States in 1879. W. F. Stanley of London manufactured the rule from 1879 until 1975, and it was marketed in the United States by Keuffel & Esser, Dietzgen, and other dealers.
The model has a wooden handle and shaft, with a wooden cylinder that slides up and down the shaft. A paper covered with scales fits around the cylinder. The lower edge of the cylinder has a scale of equal parts. The remainder bears a spiral scale divided logarithmically. A rectangular clear plastic pointer has broken from its attachment on the handle and is tucked into a red ribbon tied around the cylinder. A paper patent tag is marked: No. 291.246; 1879 (/) G. Fuller. (/) Calculators. (/) Patented Sept 2. (/) 1879. A printed description from the patent application of April 16, 1878, is glued to the back of the tag. The tag is attached to the handle with a red ribbon.
L. Leland Locke, a New York mathematics teacher and historian of mathematics, collected this patent model and intended it for the Museums of the Peaceful Arts in New York City. When that institution encountered financial difficulties in 1940, Locke gave a collection of objects, including this model, to the Smithsonian Institution.
For production models of this instrument, see 313751, 316575, and 1998.0046.01.
References: George Fuller, "Improvement in Calculators" (U.S. Patent 219,246 issued September 2, 1879); The Report of the President of Queen's College, Belfast, for the Year Ending October, 1876 (Dublin, 1877), 9, 29–30, 107–110; James J. Fenton, "Fuller's Calculating Slide-Rule," Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Victoria 22 (1886): 57–61; Dieter von Jezierski, Slide Rules: A Journey Through Three Centuries, trans. Rodger Shepherd (Mendham, N.J.: Astragal Press, 2000), 42–43.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1878
patentee
Fuller, George
maker
Fuller, George
ID Number
MA.311958
accession number
155183
catalog number
311958
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several circular slide rules were made to resemble pocket watches. Fowler & Co., of Manchester, England, was a particularly notable manufacturer of this type of slide rule.
Description
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several circular slide rules were made to resemble pocket watches. Fowler & Co., of Manchester, England, was a particularly notable manufacturer of this type of slide rule. The company was in business from 1898 to 1988 and made a large variety of calculators, although the labor-intensive nature of its manufacturing process produced expensive instruments that never sold in large numbers.
This example is the "long scale" model, consisting of a metal case with a ring, two knobs, and two rotating paper discs covered with glass. The front has a short logarithmic scale and a long logarithmic scale, laid out in six concentric circles rather than in a spiral. These scales are rotated by the knob on the left. The glass is marked with two hairlines. The interior of the disc reads: FOWLER'S (/) LONG SCALE CALCULATOR (/) PATENT (/) FOWLER & Co MANCHESTER.
The other knob rotates the seven scales on the back of the instrument: multiplication and division, reciprocals, logarithms, square roots, logarithmic sines, logarithmic tangents, and a second scale for logarithmic sines. The interior is marked: FOWLER'S (/) CALCULATOR (/) PATENT (/) FOWLER & Co MANCHESTER. There is one hairline indicator on the glass. The slide rule is with a tarnished square metal case, lined with purple velvet. The outside of the case is engraved: Fowler's (/) CALCULATOR. The inside is stamped: Fowler & Co. (/) CALCULATOR (/) SPECIALISTS (/) Manchester (/) ENGLAND.
William Henry Fowler (1853–1932) and his son, Harold Fowler, took out several British patents for improvements to circular calculators between 1910 and 1924. The first Fowler calculator with two knobs on the rim was patented in 1914. In 1927, Fowler & Co. introduced the Magnum Long Scale Calculator, which extended the scale length to 50 inches. Thus, this example is dated between 1914 and 1927.
Charles Looney (1906–1987), the donor of this slide rule, catalogued engineering drawings and trade literature at the Smithsonian after he retired from the University of Maryland–College Park, where he served as chair of the Department of Civil Engineering. He also donated his library of books and pamphlets to the Museum.
References: Peter M. Hopp, "Pocket-Watch Slide Rules," Journal of the Oughtred Society 8, no. 2 (1999): 45–51; Richard Blankenhorn and Robert De Cesaris, "The Fowler Calculators: A Catalogue Raisonné," Journal of the Oughtred Society 11, no. 2 (2002): 3–11; Museum of History and Science in Manchester, "Fowler & Co.," http://www.mosi.org.uk/media/33870536/fowlerandco.pdf; accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1914-1927
maker
Fowler & Co.
ID Number
MA.333849
catalog number
333849
accession number
303780
This undivided black hard-rubber rule is beveled along both long edges. It is marked: I. R. C. CO. (/) GOODYEAR. Scratched on the back of the rule is: Brereton. IRC, or Inoue Rubber Company, was established in Japan in 1926 to make bicycle tires and tubes.
Description
This undivided black hard-rubber rule is beveled along both long edges. It is marked: I. R. C. CO. (/) GOODYEAR. Scratched on the back of the rule is: Brereton. IRC, or Inoue Rubber Company, was established in Japan in 1926 to make bicycle tires and tubes. The reference to Goodyear is likely to the manufacturing process pioneered by Charles Goodyear and not to the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Brereton was presumably the original owner of the instrument, which was acquired by the Museum in 1961. Compare to MA.327306.
Reference: IRC Tire, "About Us," http://www.irc-tire.com/en/bc/company/
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1926–1961
ID Number
MA.319738
accession number
239019
catalog number
319738
This German silver instrument has a 6-1/2" pole arm and an adjustable 10" tracer arm with white celluloid measuring wheel, vernier, and registering dial.
Description
This German silver instrument has a 6-1/2" pole arm and an adjustable 10" tracer arm with white celluloid measuring wheel, vernier, and registering dial. The tracer arm is marked for the following settings: 19.568/100 [square] cm, 19.632/0.1 [square] f[oot], 21.245/10 [square] inches. The pole arm is marked in script: Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Co Swiss Manufacture. Underneath the pole arm is a serial number: 39707. Part of the serial number is repeated underneath the tracer arm near the point: 707. The pole weight is missing.
A wooden case covered with black leather is lined with black velvet. The top of the case is marked: CROSBY STEAM GAGE & VALVE Co. BOSTON. (/) Swiss Manufacture. A handwritten paper label is pasted inside the lid: PRICK POINTS ON PLANIMETER WHEN (/) SET FOR LENGTH OF CARD, GIVE MEAN (/) EFFECTIVE PRESSURE DIRECT FOR (/) 40 SCALE. The label also has a table of factors, from 10 = 1/4 to 100 = 2-1/2.
This is a Type 6 polar planimeter from the workshop founded by Jacob Amsler in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, in 1854. Using the serial number, planimeter scholar Joachim Fischer dated the instrument to about 1910. The Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Company made pressure gauges, indicators, and other equipment related to steam engines in Charlestown, Mass., from 1875 to the 1940s. To measure the diagrams produced by its indicators, Crosby imported and offered Amsler planimeters. This model sold as No. 3 and cost $30.00 from 1888 to 1907 and $42.00 sometime after 1907. See 1999.0250.02 for instructions. On Crosby and planimeters, see also 318485.
The instrument was received at the museum in 1975.
References: Joachim Fischer to Peggy A. Kidwell, October 19, 1992, Mathematics Collection files, National Museum of American History; Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Co. Catalogue (Boston, 1888), 104–109; Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Co. Catalogue (Boston, 1900), 170–176; Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Co. Catalogue (Boston, 1907), 203–210; Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Company, Practical Instructions Relating to the Construction and Use of the Steam Engine Indicator (Boston, 1911), 43–46, 83–86; Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Company, Catalogue 32: Indicators and Appliances (Boston, n.d.), 8; Craig Bliss, The Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Co., http://www.crosby-steam.com/index.htm.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1910
distributor
Crosby Steam Gage & Valve Company
maker
Amsler, Jacob
ID Number
MA.335203
accession number
314531
catalog number
335203
This desktop slide rule is in a mahogany case. It has a cylindrical brass drum covered with paper printed with forty A scales. A wooden handle is fastened to each end of the drum. The drum fits in an open rotating brass frame; twenty brass slats span the frame.
Description
This desktop slide rule is in a mahogany case. It has a cylindrical brass drum covered with paper printed with forty A scales. A wooden handle is fastened to each end of the drum. The drum fits in an open rotating brass frame; twenty brass slats span the frame. The right side of the paper on the drum is printed in italics: Patented by Edwin Thatcher [sic], C.E. Nov. 1st 1881. Divided by W. F. Stanley, London, 1882. Made by Keuffel & Esser Co. N.Y.
The slats are lined with cloth and covered with paper. Each slat is printed with two B and two C scales. The first A scale runs from 100 to 112; the fortieth runs from 946 to 100 to 105. The first B scale runs from 100 to 112; the fortieth runs from 946 to 100 to 105. The first C scale runs from 100 to 334; the fortieth runs from 308 to 305.
The front of the frame is spanned by a brass pyramidal bar. A brass and metal mount with three thumbscrews is attached to the bar. A magnifying glass found within the case may be positioned on the mount. The mount may be adjusted by height, and it slides along the bar.
The frame is screwed to a mahogany base. A paper with instructions is glued to the top front of the base. The top back of the base is engraved: KEUFFEL & ESSER Co (encircling N.Y.); 4013 (/) 2151; TRADE MARK (below the K&E lion logo). A paper K&E label loose inside the case is also stamped: No. 4013 (/) Serial 2151. A plastic label inside the case lid is imprinted: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (/) NEW YORK (/) ST. LOUIS CHICAGO (/) SAN FRANCISCO. An index card with the letter V and a rectangle drawn in red pencil is also loose inside the case.
The model number and shape of the frame indicate this instrument was manufactured after 1900. The serial number and evidence that Stanley was still dividing the scales for K&E suggest a manufacturing date before 1910–1915. (K&E began to divide and print its own scales in the 1910s and subsequently dropped the reference to Stanley from the drum.) In 1906, the model 4013 Thacher cylindrical slide rule sold for $45.00.
The object was received with MA.271855.01.03, Directions for Using Thacher's Calculating Instrument (1907), which is a reprint of a booklet Edwin Thacher first published in 1884. The object was also received with a cardboard exhibit label, MA.271855.01.02, indicating that the Armour Institute of Technology donated the object to the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, which in turn donated it to the Smithsonian in 1966 with a large supply of electrical apparatus. In Chicago, according to pencil markings on the case, label, and booklet, the object's museum catalogue number was 39.168.
See also MA.315663.
References: Edwin Thacher, Thacher's Calculating Instrument or Cylindrical Slide-Rule (New York: Van Nostrand, 1884); Wayne E. Feely, "Thacher Cylindrical Slide Rules," The Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 50 (1997): 125–127; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser (New York, 1906), 314.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1900-1910
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
MA.327886
accession number
271855
catalog number
327886
This planimeter can measure larger diagrams than planimeters with a fixed arm, and it is designed to eliminate errors introduced by irregularities in the paper. It moves on two German silver rollers.
Description
This planimeter can measure larger diagrams than planimeters with a fixed arm, and it is designed to eliminate errors introduced by irregularities in the paper. It moves on two German silver rollers. The roller on the left rotates a steel wheel that in turn rotates an axle that turns the measuring wheel and registering dial. The measuring wheel has a vernier. All three parts are made of white plastic. The ten-inch rectangular German silver tracer arm is attached to a carriage below the measuring wheel and between the rollers. It has a brass tracer with steel point and support. The length of the arm is adjustable, and it is evenly divided to 0.5mm and numbered from 10 to 54. An extension for the tracer arm adds eight inches to its length and is numbered from 55 to 88.
Above the roller on the right is marked: G. Coradi, Zürich (/) Switzerland (/) No 1550. An oblong German silver testing rule is marked for 0", 1", 2", 3", and 4". It is also marked: G. Coradi. A fitted wooden case is covered with black leather and lined with purple velvet. The brush that goes in the corner of the case is missing. A paper printed calibration chart glued inside the lid has columns in French for Scales, Position of the vernier on the tracer bar, Value of the unit of the vernier on the measuring roller, and Constant. The values are handwritten, and the Constant column is crossed out. A paragraph explains how to store the instrument. The date on the chart indicates the Coradi firm made serial number 1,550 on November 2, 1901. A separate card has the chart values translated into English. According to a 1915 catalog, Coradi sold this size of planimeter as model 30.
The top of the case is marked: MU 3412. The key for the case is tied to the handle with string. A metal circle on the bottom of the case is marked: WEBCO. The Zurich workshop of Gottlieb Coradi (1847–1929) made a variety of planimeters beginning in the early 1880s, with the rolling sphere form debuting around 1900. The Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Missouri-Columbia donated this example in 1972. Although when and where the department acquired it is not known, American firms such as Keuffel & Esser and Dietzgen distributed Coradi's precision disc planimeter. K&E sold this size before 1901 as model 1106 and from 1901 to 1936 as model 4260, charging $82.50 in 1900. Dietzgen only sold a larger version that had twelve-inch and eight-inch tracer arm pieces. Compare to 1977.0112.01. A later instruction manual is 1977.0112.02. For other objects from the Univ. of Missouri's donation, see MA.333663 and MA.333636.
References: J. W. Beardsley, "Description and Theory of Coradi's Rolling Ball Planimeter," Journal of the Association of Engineering Societies 28 (1902): 67–77; J. Y. Wheatley, The Polar Planimeter and Its Use in Engineering Calculations (New York: Keuffel & Esser, 1903), chapter 10, http://www.leinweb.com/snackbar/planimtr/wheatley/s10-6.htm; Clark McCoy, "Collection of Pages from K&E Catalogs for the 4260 Family of Precision Rolling Planimeters," http://www.mccoys-kecatalogs.com/PlanimeterModels/ke4260family.htm; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser, 30th ed. (New York, 1900), 308; Catalogue & Price List of Eugene Dietzgen Co., 7th ed. (Chicago, 1904), 363; Mathematical-Mechanical Institute of G. Coradi, Catalogue of Mathematical Precision Instruments (Zurich, 1915), 13–17.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1901
maker
Coradi, Gottlieb
ID Number
MA.333660
catalog number
333660
accession number
300659
This German silver instrument consists of three pieces. The first is a seven-inch tracer arm with a tracer point at one end and a measuring wheel with vernier and a peg at the other end.
Description
This German silver instrument consists of three pieces. The first is a seven-inch tracer arm with a tracer point at one end and a measuring wheel with vernier and a peg at the other end. The peg fits into a groove on the second piece, which is a rectangular plate with a removable sliding ruler that is divided on all four sides into 96, 120, 150, and 180 parts. A pivoting rectangular blade is at the right end of the second piece. This piece is marked: KEUFFEL & ESSER Co N.Y. Pat. Dec. 8. 1903 No 7. The third piece is a folding L-shaped ruler. The long arm is graduated to 1/4-inch and numbered from 1 to 5. The short arm is divided to tenths of an inch and numbered from 5 to 20.
A rectangular hardwood case has green velvet lining the supports for the instrument. A small ivory plate screwed inside the lid is marked: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (/) NEW YORK (/) ST. LOUIS CHICAGO (/) SAN FRANCISCO.
Frederick (Frank) R. Williams of Syracuse, N.Y., patented this planimeter. He may have been a merchant who sold his grocery store in 1906. The instrument was never advertised in Keuffel & Esser catalogs. Since this example was donated by K&E in 1971 and since the serial number is so low (7), perhaps K&E manufactured it as a prototype or for use with its own steam engine indicators, but decided not to offer it for sale to the public. Compare to the linear planimeter invented by John Coffin, MA.323708, 1987.0107.03, MA.323705, and MA.323706.
References: Frank R. Williams, "Planimeter" (U.S. Patent 746,427 issued December 8, 1903); "Skaneateles," Syracuse Journal (January 10, 1906), 6, http://fultonhistory.com/newspapers%20Disk3/Syracuse%20NY%20Daily%20Journal/Syracuse%20NY%20Daily%20Journal%201906.pdf/Syracuse%20NY%20Daily%20Journal%201906%20-%200104.PDF; Clark McCoy, ed., "Planimeters and Integrators in K&E Catalogs by Model Number," http://www.mccoys-kecatalogs.com/PlanimeterModels/PlanimeterModels.htm; Bob Otnes, "American Planimeters," Journal of the Oughtred Society 11, no. 2 (2002): 59–64; accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1903
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
MA.335262
catalog number
335262
accession number
306012
These salmon-colored card fragments were received with MA.333766.
Description
These salmon-colored card fragments were received with MA.333766. They give partial instructions for taking measurements with an "averaging planimeter." The reverse side of the card has a drawing of a connector for a steam engine indicator and several user testimonials.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
James L. Robertson & Sons
ID Number
MA.302380.02
accession number
302380
catalog number
302380.01
In 1881, Edwin Thacher, a "computing engineer" for the Keystone Bridge Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, received a patent for an improvement in slide rules. Thacher was a graduate of Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute who spent much of his career designing railway bridges.
Description
In 1881, Edwin Thacher, a "computing engineer" for the Keystone Bridge Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, received a patent for an improvement in slide rules. Thacher was a graduate of Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute who spent much of his career designing railway bridges. To assist in his calculations, he designed a cylindrical slide rule. Thacher's rule, though it fit on a desk, was equivalent to a conventional slide rule over 59 feet long. It had scales for multiplication and division and another scale, with divisions twice as large, for use in finding squares and square roots. But it had no trigonometric scales.
To produce his "calculating instrument," Thacher turned to the London firm of W. F. Stanley. The company even designed a special dividing engine for preparing the scales for the instrument. These were printed on paper sheets, which were pasted to the drum and the slats. In this example, the paper is also printed in italics on the right side: Patented by Edwin Thatcher [sic], C.E. Nov. 1st 1881. Divided by W. F. Stanley, London, 1882.
The drum is rotated with wooden handles. The cylinder of slats is held in place with a brass frame, which is affixed to a wooden base. A paper of DIRECTIONS AND RULES FOR OPERATING is lacquered to the front of the base. The rear of the base bears a small silver metal label engraved: Keuffel & Esser (/) New York. F. F. NICKEL is painted underneath the base.
Keuffel & Esser Company of New York sold versions of the Thacher cylindrical slide rule from at least 1883 until about 1950. There were two models, one with a magnifying glass (K&E model 1741, later K&E model 4013), and one without (K&E model 1740, later K&E 4012). This is a model 1740. The front right corner of the instrument's metal frame is engraved with the number 107. A paper K&E label on the inside lid of the instrument's mahogany case is marked in ink: 1740/661 (/) Thachers (/) Calculating (/)Instr. The top front of the bottom of the case is also carved with 661. In 1887, the model 1740 sold for $30.00.
Frank Ferdinand Nickel purchased this example around 1883 and donated it to the Smithsonian in 1945, through his son, Henry W. Nickel. The elder Nickel was born in Hanau, Germany, in 1857. He came to the United States around 1883 and worked as a mechanical engineer in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. He also taught at Columbia University in the 1910s. He wrote Direct-Acting Steam Pumps (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1915).
See also 1987.0107.08 and 1987.0808.01.
References: Edwin Thacher, "Slide-Rule" (U.S. Patent 249,117 issued November 1, 1881); "Thacher's Calculating Instrument or Cylindrical Slide Rule," Engineering News 16 (18 December 1886): 410; Wayne E. Feely, "Thacher Cylindrical Slide Rules," The Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 50 (1997): 125–127; Wilfred Scott Downs, ed., "Nickel, Frank F.," Who's Who in Engineering, vol. 3 (New York, 1931), 957; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser (New York, 1887), 128. This was the first K&E catalog to list the model 1740.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1883
maker
Stanley, William Ford
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
MA.312866
accession number
169701
catalog number
312866
The brass core of this cylindrical slide rule is covered by paper marked with forty A scales. The core fits in an open rotating frame that holds twenty metal slats; each slat is lined with cloth, covered with paper, and marked with two B and two C scales.
Description
The brass core of this cylindrical slide rule is covered by paper marked with forty A scales. The core fits in an open rotating frame that holds twenty metal slats; each slat is lined with cloth, covered with paper, and marked with two B and two C scales. Wooden knobs on each end of the core rotate the instrument. The frame is attached to a mahogany base.
The first A scale runs from 100 to 112 and the fortieth runs from 946 to 100 to 105. The first B scale runs from 100 to 112, the last from 946 to 100 to 105. The first C scale runs from 100 to 334, the last from 308 to 305. The paper covering the core is also printed in italics on the right side: Made by Keuffel & Esser Co., New York; Patented by Edwin Thatcher [sic], C.E. Nov. 1st., 1881.
The paper of instructions and rules for operating THACHER'S CALCULATING INSTRUMENT, normally glued to the top front of the base, is coming loose and is torn on this example. A large chip is also missing from the left handle. The top back of the base is stamped: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (encircling N.Y.); 4012 (/) 4218; TRADEMARK (below the K&E logo of a lion).
Keuffel & Esser sold versions of the Thacher cylindrical slide rule from about 1883 until about 1950. There were two models, one with a magnifying glass (K&E model 1741 before 1900, K&E model 4013 after) and one without (K&E model 1740 before 1900, K&E model 4012 after). This is a model 4012; the serial number suggests it was manufactured around 1915. The marking on the core also no longer references W. F. Stanley, the English firm that originally manufactured the instrument for sale by K&E. Stanley continued to provide the engine-divided scales after K&E began making the rest of the instrument in 1887. K&E took over printing the scales in the 1910s. Model 4012 sold for $35.00 in 1916, $60.00 in 1922, and $70.00 in 1927.
Compare markings on the core to MA.322730. See also MA.312866 and MA.326628.
References: Wayne E. Feely, "Thacher Cylindrical Slide Rules," The Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 50 (1997): 125–127; Keuffel & Esser Co., Slide Rules and Calculating Instruments (New York, 1916), 22; Keuffel & Esser Co., Slide Rules and Calculating Instruments (New York, 1922), 21; Keuffel & Esser Co., Slide Rules and Calculating Instruments (New York, 1927), 20.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1915
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
MA.323504
accession number
251559
maker number
4218
catalog number
323504
This instrument has two arms. The German silver tracer arm has a support for the tracer point and is evenly divided by tenths numbered from 10 to 37. Ten units are equivalent to 5mm.
Description
This instrument has two arms. The German silver tracer arm has a support for the tracer point and is evenly divided by tenths numbered from 10 to 37. Ten units are equivalent to 5mm. The tracer arm fits within a carriage of brass, painted black, that also holds a white plastic measuring wheel and vernier and a metal registering dial. The pole arm is made of brass painted black and is attached to the carriage. The end of the pole arm fits into a rectangular metal weight faced with brass painted black. The weight is marked: G. Coradi Zürich (/) No 759. The bottom of the weight is covered with paper. A cylindrical brass weight fits into a hole on top of the pole arm. The testing rule is missing.
A wooden case covered with black leather is lined with purple velvet. A paper printed chart glued inside the lid has columns in German for Scales, Position of the vernier on the tracer bar, Value of the unit of the vernier on the measuring roller, and Constant. The values are handwritten. The date on the chart indicates the Coradi firm made serial number 759 on December 28, 1888.
Gottlieb Coradi (1847–1929) established a workshop in Zurich in 1880 and began making wheel and disc polar planimeters in the Amsler style soon thereafter. In 1894, he modified the design into the "compensating" polar planimeter; see MA.321777. Union College donated this instrument in 1964.
Reference: "People: Gottlieb Coradi," Waywiser, Harvard University Department of the History of Science, http://dssmhi1.fas.harvard.edu/emuseumdev/code/eMuseum.asp?lang=EN.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1888
maker
Coradi, Gottlieb
ID Number
MA.323707
catalog number
323707
accession number
252804
This rule consists of an outer wooden cylinder that both slides up and down and rotates. Two brass rings lined with felt are inside this cylinder.
Description
This rule consists of an outer wooden cylinder that both slides up and down and rotates. Two brass rings lined with felt are inside this cylinder. The cylinder is covered with paper marked with a single spiral logarithmic scale graduated into 7,250 parts and having a length, according to the maker, of 500 inches (nearly 42 feet). Inside the outer cylinder is a longer wooden cylinder, covered with paper marked with decimal, conversion, and sine tables, and half-lined with felt. A solid mahogany handle is at one end. A brass index is screwed to the top of the handle. A second, longer brass index is screwed to the mahogany base and marked with a scale of equal parts used in finding logarithms. A third and removable brass cylinder is inside the instrument and attached to the base.
The tables on the middle cylinder include: decimal equivalents of feet and inches in feet; decimal equivalents of quarter weights and pounds in hundredweights; decimal equivalents of ounces and pounds in fractions of a pound; decimal equivalents of pounds, shillings, and pence in fractions of a pound; decimal equivalents of pence in shillings; days of the year as a fraction of the year; decimal equivalents of subunits of an acre; properties of various metals and woods; decimal equivalents of minutes of a degree in degrees; the Birmingham wire gauge; various conversion factors (mostly for weights and measures); and natural sines.
The outer, sliding cylinder is marked near the top: FULLERS SPIRAL SLIDE RULE. Near the bottom is marked: ENTD. STATS. HALL; STANLEY, Maker, LONDON. The bottom of the outer cylinder and the top of the long brass index are stamped: 858. According to Wayne Feely, the serial number 858 dates this instrument to 1895 or 1896.
The rule is in a rectangular mahogany case marked in script on the top: Calculator. A paper Keuffel & Esser label on the inside lid of the instrument's mahogany case is marked in ink: 1742 (/) Fuller's (/) Spiral (/) Slide Rule. Fuller's Spiral Slide Rule was first listed in Keuffel & Esser's 1895 catalog and sold for $28.00.
George Fuller, professor of civil engineering at Queen's University in Belfast, Ireland, patented this instrument in 1878. The Stanley firm made about 14,000 Fuller's spiral slide rules over nearly one hundred years, with K&E distributing a large share of the instruments sold in the United States. The Naval Engineering Division of the U.S. Coast Guard transferred this example to the Smithsonian in 1959. The Coast Guard engineers provided brief instructions:
"To calculate (5 X 6 X 4)/3 turn the outer cylinder until the first factor (5) is opposite the fixed pointer, set the slot in the movable indicator to read (0), turn the outer cylinder until the second factor (6) appears opposite the movable indicator. (The result will be found on the outer cylinder opposite the first indicator.) To multiply by the third factor (4), set the slot in the movable indicator to (0), turn the outer cylinder until the movable indicator indicates the third factor (4); (the result will be found opposite the fixed indicator.) To divide by (3) set the movable indicator to (3), turn outer cylinder until the slot in the movable indicator is (0) on the outer cylinder and the result will be found opposite the fixed pointer."
See also MA.311958, 1998.0046.01, and MA.313751.
References: William Ford Stanley, Surveying and Leveling Instruments, 3rd ed. (London, 1901), 542–543; Wayne E. Feely, "The Fuller Spiral Scale Slide Rule," Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association 50, no. 3 (1997): 93–98; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser (New York, 1895), 190.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1895-1896
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
Stanley, William Ford
ID Number
MA.316575
accession number
225751
catalog number
316575

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