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.

This folding case has a wooden base with two cardboard flaps. It is covered with black imitation leather and lined with purple velvet. The case fastens with two snaps marked with the trademark for the Eugene Dietzgen Company. The insides of the snaps are marked: P R Y M (/) 4H.
Description
This folding case has a wooden base with two cardboard flaps. It is covered with black imitation leather and lined with purple velvet. The case fastens with two snaps marked with the trademark for the Eugene Dietzgen Company. The insides of the snaps are marked: P R Y M (/) 4H. The front flap is marked: 1252 PJL. The back of the case is marked: GERMANY (/) U.S. ZONE. Inside the top flap is marked: DIETZGEN (/) POLITEK. The set of instruments appears to be original and complete and includes:
1) 6-3/4" fixed-leg needle-point dividers, marked: DIETZGEN GERMANY.
2) 6-3/8" bow pencil with pen point attachment. One leg is marked: DIETZGEN GERMANY.
3) 5" bow pencil with pen point attachment. One leg is marked: DIETZGEN GERMANY. A 6-1/2" extension bar permits this instrument to function as a beam compass.
4) 5-1/2" black plastic and steel drawing pen marked: DIETZGEN GERMANY. The adjusting screw is numbered by twos from 0 to 8.
5) 3-1/16" black plastic and steel pen handle.
6) 2-1/2" blue screwdriver with German silver handle.
7) 1-1/16" black metal joint tightener.
8) 5/16" German silver thumbtack.
Except as noted, the instruments may be made of a chromium-plated hard alloy. The reference to the American occupation zone after World War II dates this set to between 1945 and 1955. Neither the Politek brand nor model number were mentioned in Dietzgen's 1949 catalog. The Extens-o-Leg compass attachment was advertised in a 1953–1954 catalog for schools, further suggesting that the set was not manufactured until after 1950.
References: Catalog of Eugene Dietzgen Co., 16th ed. (Chicago, 1949); Dietzgen School Catalog (Chicago, 1953–1954), 12.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1950-1955
distributor
Eugene Dietzgen Company
ID Number
1989.0305.03
catalog number
1989.0305.03
accession number
1989.0305
This metal instrument consists of a circular protractor housed within an irregularly shaped blade. An 11-1/2" trapezoidal blade slides into the housing. A screw on the protractor fixes that blade in place.
Description
This metal instrument consists of a circular protractor housed within an irregularly shaped blade. An 11-1/2" trapezoidal blade slides into the housing. A screw on the protractor fixes that blade in place. The protractor is divided by single degrees and marked by tens from 0° to 90° to 0° to 90° to 0°. A vernier, attached by another screw, permits angle readings to five minutes of accuracy. The protractor has a hinged case of leather over wood, lined with black satin. The case is gouged in several spots.
Brown & Sharpe Manufacturing Co. introduced a "universal bevel protractor" in 1899, according to "Trade Notes," Science and Industry 4 (1899–1900): 274–275. Although there is no signature on this instrument, this protractor matches the illustrations in this article and in Brown & Sharpe catalogs at least as early as 1899 and at least as late as 1948.
References: Kenneth L. Cope, intro., A Brown & Sharpe Catalogue Collection, 1868 to 1899 (Mendham, N.J.: The Astragal Press, 1997); Brown & Sharpe Mfg. Co., Small Tools: Catalog No. 27 (Providence, R.I., 1916), 92–93; The Brown & Sharpe Handbook: A Guide for Young Machinists (Providence, R.I., 1948), 49–54, 110–112.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1899-1949
maker
Brown & Sharpe Manufacturing Company
ID Number
1986.0316.03
accession number
1986.0316
catalog number
1986.0316.03
This wooden bar-lock case is covered with black leather and lined with dark blue velvet. The top is marked: Präcision (/) D. P. (/) E. O. Richter & Co. Between the letters D and P is the Richter trademark of a backwards E, O, and R, superimposed on each other.
Description
This wooden bar-lock case is covered with black leather and lined with dark blue velvet. The top is marked: Präcision (/) D. P. (/) E. O. Richter & Co. Between the letters D and P is the Richter trademark of a backwards E, O, and R, superimposed on each other. The lower left corner of the top is also marked: [Fre]derik Preisler (/) Kjøbenhavn. Carved in the back of the case is the mark: H. T. FRIIS. The set includes:
1) 6" aluminum, German silver, and steel drawing pen marked: CORN.KNUDSEN. Trademarks of two superimposed dividers are on either side of the mark. The object is cataloged separately as 1985.0909.02.
2) 3-3/16" and 2-11/16" German silver handles. The smaller handle holds four needle points.
3) Two 1-1/2" steel pen points that do not appear to fit any of the compasses in the set.
4) 6" German silver and steel fixed-point dividers. The center hinge is marked: Richter. The Richter trademark is to the right of the mark.
5) 4-1/2" German silver compass with pencil point. The center hinge is marked: Richter. The Richter trademark is to the right of the mark.
6) 2-3/4" and 2-1/2" German silver and steel screwdrivers. The first screwdriver is marked: FRANCE 6. It is cataloged separately as 1985.0909.03. The second screwdriver matches the handles and appears to be original to the set.
7) 6-1/4" German silver drawing compass with removable pencil and pen points and extension bar. The center hinge is marked: Richter. The Richter trademark is to the right of the mark.
8) 4-3/4" German silver drop spring bow pencil marked: D. R. Pat. The Richter trademark is between the letter R and "Pat."
9) 4-1/2" German silver bow dividers. The side of one leg is marked: D. R. P. The Richter trademark is below the mark.
10) Two 5-1/8" and one 4" leads, all marked: SSWS MADE U.S.A. U.S. PAT. 1,832,654 (/) 3H EAGLE TURQUOISE ® ELECTRONIC 3H. (The shortest lead is marked 2H instead of 3H.) These items are cataloged separately as 1985.0909.04.
E. O. Richter & Co. of Chemnitz, Germany, sold mathematical instruments from 1885 but became notable from 1892 when it began making fine drawing instruments. See also 317925.04, 325684, 335301, and 2007.0039.01. In 1926, Richter sold this set as model number 2330 for 61.00 DM. Several of the original instruments in this particular set are missing, while others from various makers have been added to the case.
Frederik Preisler made and distributed scientific instruments in Copenhagen, Denmark, around 1900. The Copenhagen firm founded in 1838 by Cornelius Knudsen made optical, navigational, and surveying instruments, planimeters, and equipment for telegraphy into the 1930s.
German immigrant Heinrich Berolzheimer opened Eagle Pencil Company as a pencil shop in New York City in 1856, with a factory in Yonkers. By 1880 the firm made mechanical pencils as well as pens and erasers. In 1969 the company changed its name to Berol Corporation, and the Empire Pencil Corporation purchased it in 1986. Its Turquoise line of drawing leads was widely sold in the early 20th century.
Harald Trap Friis (1893–1976) owned these instruments. He earned a degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Denmark in 1916. In 1919 he moved to the United States to study at Columbia University. He worked for Bell Labs from 1920 to 1958 and was notable for discoveries in the mathematics of radio transmissions, the development of radio astronomy, and improvements in microwave radar and communication equipment. Friis likely purchased his original set from the Preisler firm before he left Denmark. His widow donated his papers and this set of instruments to the Library of Congress in 1977, which transferred the set to the Smithsonian in 1982.
References: Catalogue of E. O. Richter & Co., 5th ed. (Chemnitz, Germany, [1926]), 78; Hemming Andersen, Historic Scientific Instruments in Denmark (Copenhagen: Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters, 1995), 8–10, 37, 47, 55, 68, 79–82, 276; "Eagle Divider and Compass," School Journal 56 (1898): 389.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1920
maker
E. O. Richter & Co.
ID Number
1985.0909.01
accession number
1985.0909
catalog number
1985.0909.01
This black leather wallet case is lined with green velvet and closes with two metal snaps. The front lower left corner is marked: 437. A white celluloid plate inside the case is marked: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (/) NEW YORK, (/) ST. LOUIS, CHICAGO (/) SAN FRANCISCO.
Description
This black leather wallet case is lined with green velvet and closes with two metal snaps. The front lower left corner is marked: 437. A white celluloid plate inside the case is marked: KEUFFEL & ESSER CO. (/) NEW YORK, (/) ST. LOUIS, CHICAGO (/) SAN FRANCISCO. The case contains:
1) 5" and 4-3/8" metal drawing pens marked on their handles: PARAGON (/) 437. The points are marked: K&E Co.
2) 2" cylindrical metal case with three needle points wrapped in tissue paper.
3) 6-3/4" German silver drawing compass with bendable legs and removable pencil point, lengthening bar, and pen point. The pieces are all marked: 437. The compass is also marked inside one leg: KEUFFEL & ESSER Co. N.Y. (/) PARAGON. Inside the other leg is marked: PAT. MARCH 14 & 28 93 (/) GERMANY.
4) 3-7/8" German silver and steel bow pen and bow pencil.
5) 5-1/2" German silver, steel, and ebony railroad pen marked: 437 GERMANY. One blade is marked: K&ECO.
6) 4-3/4" German silver, steel, and ebony curve pen marked: 437 GERMANY. The point is marked: K&E Co.
7) 6-1/4" steel semicircular protractor, divided to single degrees and numbered by tens in both directions from 10 to 170.
The set appears to be missing a pair of bow dividers, a drawing pen, and a joint tightener. From at least 1890 to 1921, Keuffel & Esser sold a pair of proportional dividers as model number 437. No sets of drawing instruments had this model number, nor is a set exactly like this one shown in K&E catalogs. The number 437 on this set may therefore be a serial number, and the set may have been special-ordered for the institution that distributed it. K&E introduced the Paragon line of drawing instruments in 1901.
According to the donor, Alfred John Betcher (1887–1971) used this set of drawing instruments while he was a student at the University of Minnesota in 1906. He transferred to West Point in 1907 and graduated in 1911. He served in the Philippines, Texas, New York, France, Vermont, and Kentucky. He retired in 1939 at the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. In 1940 he was elected mayor of Canajoharie, N.Y.
References: George W. Cullum, Biographical Register of the Officers and Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy, supp. vol. VI-B, ed. Wirt Robinson (Saginaw, Mich., 1920), 1532; accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1901-1906
maker
Keuffel & Esser Co.
ID Number
1982.0386.01
accession number
1982.0386
catalog number
1982.0386.01
Two of these leads are 5-1/8" in length and are marked: SSWS MADE U.S.A. U.S. PAT. 1,832,654 (/) 3H EAGLE TURQUOISE ® ELECTRONIC 3H. One lead is 4" long and marked: SSWS MADE U.S.A. U.S. PAT.
Description
Two of these leads are 5-1/8" in length and are marked: SSWS MADE U.S.A. U.S. PAT. 1,832,654 (/) 3H EAGLE TURQUOISE ® ELECTRONIC 3H. One lead is 4" long and marked: SSWS MADE U.S.A. U.S. PAT. 1,832,654 (/) 2H EAGLE TURQUOISE ® ELECTRONIC 2H.
Adolf Pischel of New York City and Paul Pischel of London, England, applied in Germany in 1928 and in the United States in 1929 for patents on a process that made a plastic from "earthy matter," graphite, and Turkey red oil, forming the plastic into pencil leads. They assigned their U.S. patent to the Eagle Pencil Company.
German immigrant Heinrich Berolzheimer opened Eagle Pencil Company as a pencil shop in New York City in 1856, with a factory in Yonkers. By 1880, the firm made mechanical pencils as well as pens and erasers. Its Turquoise line of drawing leads was widely sold in the first half of the 20th century. In 1969 the company changed its name to Berol Corporation, and the Empire Pencil Corporation purchased it in 1986.
These objects were received and are stored with a set of drawing instruments, 1985.0909.01. The set was owned by Harald Trap Friis (1893–1976), a Danish emigrant who became a prominent radio engineer for Bell Labs.
Reference: Adolf Pischel and Paul Pischel, "Process for Manufacturing Rods from Plastic Materials" (U.S. Patent 1,832,654 issued November 17, 1931).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1929-1958
maker
Eagle Pencil Company
ID Number
1985.0909.04
accession number
1985.0909
catalog number
1985.0909.04
This folding cardboard and wood case is covered with black leather and lined with green velvet. It closes with two metal snaps and is marked in the upper right corner: 2300. The back of the case is marked: Made in Germany.
Description
This folding cardboard and wood case is covered with black leather and lined with green velvet. It closes with two metal snaps and is marked in the upper right corner: 2300. The back of the case is marked: Made in Germany. The set includes:
1) 5-7/8" German silver and steel drawing pen with folding point.
2) 5-1/2" and 4-5/8" black plastic and steel drawing pens. The backs of the points are marked: COMPASS (/) GERMANY.
3) 2-3/4" German silver and steel screwdriver.
4) 6-1/4" German silver and steel dividers with removable point and extension bar. The side of one leg is marked: COMPASS (/) GERMANY.
5) 6-1/4" German silver compass with pencil point and bendable legs. The side of one leg is marked: COMPASS (/) GERMANY.
6) 3-3/4" steel bow pencil, bow dividers, and bow pen. Each instrument is marked on the side: COMPASS (/) GERMANY.
7) 1-3/4" and 1-5/16" cylindrical metal cases. The larger case holds two needle points and two tightening screws. The smaller case holds a needle point and pencil lead.
The set appears to be original and complete. Compass Precision Instruments operated in Germany around the middle of the 20th century.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
mid 20th century
maker
Compass Precision Drawing Instruments
ID Number
1989.0305.04
catalog number
1989.0305.04
accession number
1989.0305
This 7-7/8" 45°-45°-90° xylonite triangle had a small triangular cutout in its interior. The edges of the opening had bevels to make it easier to pick up the object while making engineering drawing. The triangle was marked: 8.
Description
This 7-7/8" 45°-45°-90° xylonite triangle had a small triangular cutout in its interior. The edges of the opening had bevels to make it easier to pick up the object while making engineering drawing. The triangle was marked: 8. Keuffel & Esser and Dietzgen sold similar triangles for 75¢ in the first decade of the 20th century. Compare to MA.304722.08.
According to the donor, Alfred John Betcher (1887–1971) used this triangle while he was a student at the University of Minnesota in 1906. He transferred to West Point in 1907 and graduated in 1911. He served in the Philippines, Texas, New York, France, Vermont, and Kentucky. He retired in 1939 at the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1940 he was elected mayor of Canajoharie, N.Y.
Early plastics were chemically unstable. Although this object was received in 1982 in good condition, over time the xylonite became crazed and, while it was in storage, the triangle spontaneously broke into several pieces. It could not be repaired and so was destroyed in 2000. Hence it is unavailable for study or loan.
References: Catalog of Eugene Dietzgen Co., 7th ed. (Chicago, 1904), 196; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser Co., 33rd ed. (New York, 1909), 208; George W. Cullum, Biographical Register of the Officers and Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy, supp. vol. VI-B, ed. Wirt Robinson (Saginaw, Mich., 1920), 1532; accession file.
date made
ca 1906
ID Number
1982.0386.06
catalog number
1982.0386.06
accession number
1982.0386
This 4-5/16" black plastic pen has a metal pocket clip and is marked in script: Pelikan Graphos GERMANY. The end is unscrewed from one side, revealing a metal holder for a pen nib, and screwed to the other side. The tip of the holder is marked: 3.
Description
This 4-5/16" black plastic pen has a metal pocket clip and is marked in script: Pelikan Graphos GERMANY. The end is unscrewed from one side, revealing a metal holder for a pen nib, and screwed to the other side. The tip of the holder is marked: 3. Nineteen different nibs may be attached to the pen. They each are marked: MADE IN GERMANY. They are also marked: Pelikan (/) GRAPHOS (/) GÜNT . . . NER. They are also marked: IMPORTE D'ALLEMAGNE. Each nib is marked with its size; brass inlays indicate the width for seven of the nibs (those for drawing fine lines).
The set is in a wooden bar-lock case covered in black leather and lined with dark blue velvet. The top of the case is marked: Pelikan (/) Graphos. The bottom of the case is marked: MADE IN GERMANY (/) IMPORTE D'ALLEMAGNE.
Carl Hornemann opened a color and ink factory in Hanover, Germany, in 1838. The company began using a pelican as its trademark in 1863 and first offered a fountain pen in 1929. The Graphos was manufactured in the form illustrated by this object between 1934 and 1957. This set was probably made in the early part of this time frame. The nibs were designed for technical drawing and lettering. Rotring took over the Graphos brand in 1978, but Pelikan remains in operation as of 2013.
References: Pelikan, "History," http://www.pelikan.com/pulse/Pulsar/en_US.Pelikan.timelineInitView.136400./history; Annina and Andreas Schenk, "Pelikan Graphos," http://www.kalligraphie.com/909-0-Pelikan-Graphos.html.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1934-1957
maker
Pelikan
ID Number
1989.0305.02
accession number
1989.0305
catalog number
1989.0305.02
Both edges of one side of this German silver triangular rule have scales divided to 1/40" and numbered by twos from 3 [sic] to 24 and by ones from 1 to 6. This side is marked: In. 40. U.S. STD.
Description
Both edges of one side of this German silver triangular rule have scales divided to 1/40" and numbered by twos from 3 [sic] to 24 and by ones from 1 to 6. This side is marked: In. 40. U.S. STD. It is also marked: Josiah Lyman, Lenox, Mass.
Both edges of the second side have scales divided to 1/24" and numbered by ones from 1 to 12 and from 1 to 6. This side is marked: In. 24. U.S. STD. Both edges of the third side have scales divided to 1/20" and numbered by ones from 1 to 10 and from 1 to 5. This side is marked: Ft. 200. U.S. STD.
One end has a micrometer screw. According to the patent, there should be three interchangeable micrometer circles, but only one is present. The other end is supposed to have a thumb-nut, but the tube that would hold it is broken. Three large holes are in the center of each side. Three pinholes are in each end.
Among other inventions, Josiah Lyman (1811–1889) patented a protracting trigonometer (U.S. Patent 20,356 issued May 25, 1858). See MA.328738. This triangular rule was supposed to have a brass spring attachment that would hook into the pin holes at each end of the rule and then around the trigonometer, making the rule a sliding scale for the trigonometer. Lyman argued that placing a weight on the arm of wire stretching across the trigonometer would make the sliding scale mathematically reliable. He claimed that the micrometer scale, together with the protracting trigonometer, could measure off the twelve-thousandth part of a line 12 inches long.
References: Josiah Lyman, "Improvement in Drafting Scales" (U.S. Patent 38,904 issued June 16, 1863); Peggy A. Kidwell, "Josiah Lyman's Protracting Trigonometer," Rittenhouse 3 (1988): 11–14.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1863
maker
Lyman, Josiah
ID Number
MA.308918
accession number
89797
catalog number
308918
This pocket-sized wooden case is covered with black shagreen, leather made from the skin of a shark or rayfish. On the paper lining the inside of the lid, a previous owner has written: N. O'CONNOR 2/12/1806.
Description
This pocket-sized wooden case is covered with black shagreen, leather made from the skin of a shark or rayfish. On the paper lining the inside of the lid, a previous owner has written: N. O'CONNOR 2/12/1806. Ten drawing instruments were received with the case:
1) A 4-1/2" boxwood plotting scale with diagonal scales at each end. Above the plotting scale are scales divided to 0.12" and to 1/10". The other side has a scale of chords and architect's scales dividing the inch into 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, and 10 parts.
2) A 6" ebony parallel ruler with scalloped brass hinges.
3) A pair of 3-3/4" brass and steel fixed-point dividers.
4) A pair of 6-1/4" brass and steel dividers with a removable point.
5) A brass and steel pen point that fits the 6-1/4" dividers.
6) A pair of 5-14" brass and steel fixed-point dividers.
7) A 3" brass and steel drawing pen with a swiveling handle.
8) A lead pencil.
9) A metal joint tightener and file.
10) A brass gauge, unevenly graduated from 100 to 1,000 and marked "16 FT" on one side and unevenly graduated from 1,000 to 150 and marked "C 8 FT 6 IN" on the other. The first side is also marked: NEWTON & Co 3 FLEET ST NEAR TEMPLE BAR LONDON.
William and Frederick Newton were the partners of Newton & Company, which sold scientific instruments and lantern slides from 3 Fleet Street in London from 1851 until the 1930s, when the firm moved to Wigmore Street. In the 1950s, the company was renamed Newton Photographic Services Ltd. The gauge, joint tightener, and pencil likely date to the mid-19th century. The other instruments are consistent with the 1806 date written on the case.
The donor, civil engineer C. B. Beyer of Albuquerque, New Mexico, gave the instruments to the Smithsonian in 1953.
References: Science Museum Group, "Collections Online – People," http://collectionsonline.nmsi.ac.uk/detail.php?type=related&kv=43411&t=people; Gloria Clifton, Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 (London: National Maritime Museum, 1995), 200.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1806
maker
Newton & Co.
ID Number
MA.314286
catalog number
314286
accession number
199264
This ivory rectangular protractor is three times larger in area than many surviving ivory rectangular protractors from the nineteenth century, which tend to be short and narrow enough to fit in a pocket.
Description
This ivory rectangular protractor is three times larger in area than many surviving ivory rectangular protractors from the nineteenth century, which tend to be short and narrow enough to fit in a pocket. (See MA.335349, MA.321754, and MA.321014.) Catalogs of the time period advertise foot-long rectangular protractors comparable to this one, but at approximately $12 each, they were 3 to 8 times as expensive as 6-inch versions. Thus, surveyors probably did not purchase and use the large protractors as often.
This protractor is graduated to half-degrees and marked by tens from 10 to 170 in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The interior of the protractor contains a maker's mark: LONDON MADE. FOR MCALLISTER & CO. PHILADELPHIA. The front of the protractor also contains a diagonal scale; a scale of chords which is divided by half-degrees and marked by tens from 10 to 90; and scales for dividing 1 inch into 10, 20, and 30 parts. These scales were used to create drawings in which 1 inch represented 1, 2, and 3 feet, respectively.
A chain scale is on the bottom edge of the protractor, facing outwards (i.e., appearing upside-down as one looks at the front of the protractor). The scale is graduated to half-units and marked by ones from 1 to 44 and from 44 to 1. The numbers from 44 to 1 are called an "offset." Ten units on the scale total 1/4" in length. A surveyor's chain was 66 feet long and contained 100 links. Thus, this chain scale represented 4 links to each inch. The number 40 (described as a "line of 40" or a "scale of 40" in trade catalogs) is marked at the midpoint of the protractor, in between the chain scale and the scale dividing 1 inch into 30 parts. The markings are worn off the protractor in a few places.
The back of the protractor bears scales for dividing the inch into 80, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, and 30 parts. There are also scales for 1/8, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8, and 1 inch to the foot. The protractor is stored in a black and red leather and cardboard case that is badly worn.
William Young McAllister (1812–1896) was a third-generation optician and dealer of mathematical instruments in Philadelphia. His firm was known as McAllister & Co. between 1836 and 1853. From 1830 to 1836, he partnered with his father, John McAllister Jr., and between 1853 and 1865 he partnered with his brother, Thomas, who subsequently worked as an optician in New York City. This protractor is slightly different from the 12-inch ivory protractor described in McAllister's 1867 catalog: this object is 1/4" wider; there are eleven scales of equal parts instead of ten; there are eight scales of feet and inches instead of twelve; there is one scale of chords instead of two; and there is a chain scale. John C. Armstrong of Washington, D.C., donated the protractor to the Smithsonian in 1933.
References: William Ford Stanley, Mathematical Drawing and Measuring Instruments 6th ed. (London: E. & F. N. Spon, 1888), 227–230; Catalogue of Keuffel & Esser, 33rd ed. (New York, 1909), 176; "McAllister Family Business Timeline," The John A. McAllister Collection, Library Company of Philadelphia, http://www.librarycompany.org/mcallister/pdf/McAllister%20family%20business%20timeline.pdf; A Priced and Illustrated Catalogue of Mathematical Instruments . . . Sold Wholesale and Retail by William Y. McAllister (Philadelphia, 1867), 25; Peggy A. Kidwell, "James Prentice's Rectangular Protractor," Rittenhouse 1, no. 3 (1987): 61–63.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1836-1853
maker
McAllister, William Young
ID Number
MA.310743
accession number
127352
catalog number
310743
A rectangular paulownia wood case has a red and white sticker on the right end marked: No. 45 (/) M. Inside the case are four bamboo rulers, three that are just over 12" (about 31 cm) long and one that is 2-1/4" (15.5 cm).
Description
A rectangular paulownia wood case has a red and white sticker on the right end marked: No. 45 (/) M. Inside the case are four bamboo rulers, three that are just over 12" (about 31 cm) long and one that is 2-1/4" (15.5 cm). A fifth rule is made of a darker wood, perhaps cherry.
The first rule is marked in Japanese: Made by Fujishima. It is also marked: 3000. The scales along both edges are identical, 30 cm long, divided to twentieths of a unit, and numbered by hundreds from 0 to 2,400. The back of the rule is stamped in red: METRE. It is also marked: 1 (/) 3000.
The second rule is made from a dark wood and is marked in Japanese: Made by Fujishima. The scales are identical and labeled: 1/16. They are divided to half-units and numbered by fives from 5 to 190. Each increment of five units is 5/16" (8 mm) long.
The third rule is marked in Japanese: Made by Fujishima. It is also marked: 1800. The scales along both edges are identical, 30 cm long, divided to single units, and numbered by tens from 0 to 540. The back of the rule is stamped in red: METRE. It is also marked: 1 (/) 1800. It is also marked: 5.
The fourth rule is marked in Japanese: Made by Fujishima. It is also marked: 1600. The scales along both edges are identical, 30 cm long, divided to single units, and numbered by tens from 0 to 480. The back of the rule is stamped in red: METRE. It is also marked: 1 (/) 1600. It is also marked: 6.
The scales on the fifth and shortest rule are 2" (5 cm) long, divided to single units, and numbered by tens from 0 to 40. The rule is marked on the back: 1/800. It is also stamped in red: 3.
These rules were likely used in engineering and architectural drawing. Compare to MA.261283, MA.261284, MA.261286, and MA.261287. The rules were exhibited by the Japanese Empire Department of Education at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. They then were displayed by the Museum of the U.S. Bureau of Education until 1906 and transferred to the Smithsonian National Museum in 1910. For more information, see MA.261298 and MA.261313.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
before 1876
maker
Fujishima
ID Number
MA.261285
catalog number
261285
accession number
51116
This ebony ruler has ivory edges divided to 1/12" and numbered by ones from 1 to 6. Ivory rollers at each end of the ruler's interior are numbered by sixes from 6 to 18 and within brass housings.
Description
This ebony ruler has ivory edges divided to 1/12" and numbered by ones from 1 to 6. Ivory rollers at each end of the ruler's interior are numbered by sixes from 6 to 18 and within brass housings. The rollers are connected by a metal rod that runs through a brass and paper counting dial numbered by ones from 1 to 12. A metal pointer or index attached to this dial shows the number of inches the rule has rolled. The rod is covered with ebony. The right end of the rule is marked: DOLLOND (/) LONDON. A wooden case is covered with black leather and lined with green velvet.
The Dollond family began to make eyeglasses, telescopes, and scientific instruments in London in the mid-18th century. A. George Eckhardt invented a rolling parallel ruler in 1771 and gave the patent to the firm. In the late 18th century, brothers and partners Peter and John Dollond advertised four forms of parallel rulers: an ebony rule with unnumbered brass rollers; a rule adding ivory scales on the rollers; a rule adding ivory scales along the edges; and a rule adding the measuring dial with index. This object is a 6" example of the fourth type of rule and sold for 1 pound, 6 shillings. The firm merged with Aitchison & Co. in 1927 and was purchased by Boots Opticians in 2009.
References: Deborah J. Warner, “Browse by Maker: Dollond,” National Museum of American History Physical Sciences Collection: Surveying and Geodesy , http://amhistory.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm?makerid=10; Maya Hambly, Drawing Instruments: 1580–1980 (London: Sotheby's Publications, 1988), 111–113; A Catalogue of Retail Prices of Optical, Mathematical and Philsophical Instruments made by P. and J. Dollond, Opticians to His Majesty in St. Paul's Church-Yard and St. James Haymarket (London, [1780–1805]); accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
late 18th century
maker
Dollond
ID Number
MA.323499
catalog number
323499
accession number
250508
A 14" trapezoidal mahogany frame with metal end pieces covers two mahogany rollers that rotate on metal shafts. A paper label is marked: CARRINGTON'S PATENT PARALLEL RULER, FOR COUNTING HOUSES, &C. The label is decorated with an eagle over a shield with arrows in its claws.
Description
A 14" trapezoidal mahogany frame with metal end pieces covers two mahogany rollers that rotate on metal shafts. A paper label is marked: CARRINGTON'S PATENT PARALLEL RULER, FOR COUNTING HOUSES, &C. The label is decorated with an eagle over a shield with arrows in its claws. The eagle's beak holds a banner marked: E PLURIBUS UNUM.
On April 14, 1832, James Carrington of Wallingford, Conn., patented a parallel ruler that was later manufactured by William Hill of Wallingford. The rollers were raised in order to prevent ink from smearing as the ruler was moved across a drawing. In 1849 the U.S. House of Representatives ordered six dozen of the rulers from R. Farnham, a stationer in Washington, D.C., for $2.30 per dozen. This suggests the rules were used relatively widely for a significant period of time. Before he built a dam and factory in Wallingford around 1830, Carrington was a supervisor and inspector at the Harpers Ferry and Springfield armories.
References: "American Patents," The Repertory of Patent Inventions 15 (1833): 24; "Power, Factories, Invention," in Centennial of Meriden: June 10–16, 1906 (Meriden, Conn.: Journal Publishing Co., 1906), 245; U.S. House of Representatives, Contracts for Stationery, 31st Congress, 1st Session, Miscellaneous, No. 16, December 31, 1849 (Washington, D.C., 1850), 16–17; Hiram Williams Beckwith, History of Montgomery County, Together With Historic Notes on the Wabash Valley (Chicago, 1881), 246; Merritt Roe Smith, Harpers Ferry Armory and the New Technology (Cornell: University Press, 1977), 203, 207, 229.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
mid 19th century
patentee
Carrington, James
ID Number
MA.293320.2818
accession number
293320
catalog number
293320.2818
James Sutherland Frame, chairman of the mathematics department at Michigan State University, wished to assist students in drawing useful projections of three-dimensional objects in a two-dimensional plane.
Description
James Sutherland Frame, chairman of the mathematics department at Michigan State University, wished to assist students in drawing useful projections of three-dimensional objects in a two-dimensional plane. In particular, he wanted them to draw axiometric projections, that as to say, to represent an object by a single projection on a plane so chosen as not to be perpendicular to any of the important lines of the object. To that end, he invented this device, which he called a trimetric ruler.
This flat painted wooden instrument has three edges marked with appropriate scales, so that unit vectors along three mutually perpendicular axes in space are represented in an orthographic projection (a projection in which lines of projection are parallel and perpendicular to the projection plane) by units measured on the three scales and directed along the corresponding edges of the instrument. To plot points with the device, one edge is always kept vertical and the three coordinates of the points are measured along the three scales of the ruler. The ruler allows one to draw complicated figures quickly and easily in parallel projection.
A mark on the object reads: Pat App For.
Frame (1907-1997) was born in New York City, and educated at Harvard University. He taught at Brown University and at Allegheny College before moving to Michigan State University (then Michigan Agricultural College) as chair of the Department of Mathematics in 1943. He remained department chair until 1960 and retire in 1977. Frame described his trimetric ruler at the Annual Meeting of the Michigan Section of the Mathematical Association of America in April 1946 and included an example of it in each copy of a textbook on solid geometry that he published two years later. He apparently did not receive a patent for the instrument.
References:
James S. Frame, Solid Geometry, New York: McGraw-Hill, 1948, esp. pp. 6-7, 72, 241-245.
"Annual Meeting of the Michigan Section," American Mathematical Monthly, 54 #1, January, 1947, pp. 69-71.
Dick Phillips, "J. Sutherland Frame Honored," Newsletter of the Michigan Section of the MAA, Fall, 1997.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca1944
maker
Frame, James Sutherland
ID Number
MA.323819
catalog number
323819
accession number
252890
This flat steel gauge has a hook at one end. A scale of equal parts along the edge runs from 5 near the hooked end to 60 near the opposite end.
Description
This flat steel gauge has a hook at one end. A scale of equal parts along the edge runs from 5 near the hooked end to 60 near the opposite end. The object was received with group of Japanese instruments exhibited at the Centennial Expositon, a world's fair held in Philadelphia in1876.
Compare 261309 and 261310.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1876
ID Number
MA.261310
accession number
51116
catalog number
261310
This wooden case has an inlay for a label on its top, but the inlay is not marked. The lock is broken. The case is lined with blue paper and velvet.
Description
This wooden case has an inlay for a label on its top, but the inlay is not marked. The lock is broken. The case is lined with blue paper and velvet. A compartment inside the lid has space for a transparent plastic protractor, divided to single degrees and numbered by tens from 0 to 180. (Due to the deterioration of the plastic, the protractor is stored separately.) The bottom of the case, underneath a tray of drawing instruments, contains: a 5-1/8" German silver and steel drawing pen with ivory handle; a 5-1/2" ebony triangle with corners marked 45, 45, and 90; and a 6-1/2" wooden rule.
One side of the rule has four scales, divided to roughly: 1/4", numbered by ones from 1 to 19; 3/4", numbered by ones from 6 to 1; 1/2", numbered by ones from 1 to 9; and 1", numbered by ones from 4 to 1. The ends of the scales have unusual diagonal scales for 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", and 1". The other side has a scale of chords and scales dividing the inch into 60, 50, 45, 40, 35, and 30 parts.
The tray contains: 6-1/2" brass and steel drawing pen with ebony handle; 6-1/2" brass compass with pencil point and removable leg; extension bar, divider point, and pen point for the compass; 2-3/8" steel pencil, pen, and divider points for a small compass not included in the set; 2-1/8" brass and steel drawing pen; and 3" brass and steel bow pen. None of the instruments are signed.
A pen wipe cloth, cake of ink, cylindrical wooden case holding seven pencil leads, and rubber were also received with the set. The rubber is marked: NEWMAN'S (/) PURPLE LAKE (/) SOHO SQUARE. The cloth is signed by Charles M. Higgins, an inventor and manufacturer of inks and pens from Brooklyn, N.Y.
The set was owned by the donor's grandfather, Frederick Dawson Thorns (1830–1911). He worked in an ironmonger's shop in England before moving in 1855 to Brooklyn, N.Y., where he held various jobs before operating a restaurant, opening an auction house, and selling real estate. He moved to Asheboro, N.C., to live with one of his daughters in the late 19th century.
Reference: 1910 U.S. Census records; accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
late 19th century
ID Number
MA.334622
accession number
308964
catalog number
334622
This folding cardboard and wood case is covered with black morocco leather and lined with green velvet. The snap for the case is marked: CHICAGO (/) NEW YORK.
Description
This folding cardboard and wood case is covered with black morocco leather and lined with green velvet. The snap for the case is marked: CHICAGO (/) NEW YORK. Between the words is the trademark for the Eugene Dietzgen Company, superimposed letters E and D surrounded by the letters Co. Inside the top flap is marked: EUGENE DIETZGEN CO. (/) CHICAGO—NEW YORK (/) SAN FRANCISCO. NEW ORLEANS. The set includes:
1) 6-1/2" German silver proportional dividers. One leg is marked for lines, and the other is marked for circles. Characters such as a double-barred T are engraved inside both legs.
2) 6-1/4" German silver and steel dividers with removable needle, pencil, and pen points and extension bar.
3) 1-1/2" cylindrical metal case for leads, with three leads and two needle points.
4) 2-3/8" German silver and steel screwdriver. Its storage compartment is empty.
5) 2-3/4" German silver handle.
6) 5-1/2" aluminum and steel drawing pen.
The joint tightener may be missing, but the set appears to otherwise be intact and original. No sets containing proportional dividers were found in Dietzgen catalogs issued between 1902 and 1954, so it is likely that this set was special ordered by an individual or school. This style of case was sold between 1902 and 1931, which is consistent with the dates of other objects received from this donor.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
early 20th century
maker
Eugene Dietzgen Company
ID Number
MA.325683
accession number
257193
catalog number
325683
This wooden case has a mahogany veneer and is lined with blue paper and velvet. A brass plate on the lid is not marked.
Description
This wooden case has a mahogany veneer and is lined with blue paper and velvet. A brass plate on the lid is not marked. A compartment inside the lid has a holder for a protractor (not present) and a white label marked: MÉDAILLE D'ARGENT (/) Marque de Fabrique (/) EXPOSITION DE PARIS 1867. A blue and white label on the inside bottom of the case is marked: No. 14 (/) 7–2.
The bottom also holds: a piece of white tissue paper; two pencil leads; 4-3/8" brass and steel dividers with removable leg, pencil point, and extension bar; pen point that fits the 6" dividers in the tray; a 5-3/4" wooden French curve marked with a sphinx; and a 5-1/2" wooden triangle marked in the corners: 90, 67 [1/]2, 22 [1/]2.
A tray inside the case contains: 6" brass and steel dividers with a removable leg, pencil point attachment, and extension bar; 4-1/2" brass and steel fixed-leg dividers; 3-3/8" brass and steel compass with removable leg, pricker point, and pen and pencil attachments; a pen point that nearly fits the 4-3/8" dividers; two metal joint tighteners; and a 5-1/4" steel, German silver, and ivory drawing pen.
It is unclear which European firm won a silver medal at the 1867 Paris Exposition for the entire set or an instrument within it. This example was likely first sold soon after the fair and before the next major competition for makers of scientific instruments, such as Havre in 1869 or Vienna in 1873. The Smithsonian received the object in 1963.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1870
ID Number
MA.323412
accession number
251004
catalog number
323412
This folding wood and cardboard case is covered with black leather and lined with teal velvet. The back of the case is marked: MADE IN GERMANY. The snaps fastening the case are marked with a ring of decorative letter Ps. The insides of the snaps are marked: C-PM-C (/) C-PM-C.
Description
This folding wood and cardboard case is covered with black leather and lined with teal velvet. The back of the case is marked: MADE IN GERMANY. The snaps fastening the case are marked with a ring of decorative letter Ps. The insides of the snaps are marked: C-PM-C (/) C-PM-C. The letters P and M are superimposed on each other. Inside the top flap is also marked with a backward E and superimposed R and O. This is the trademark for E. O. Richter, a German firm that made mathematical instruments from 1892 to the 1980s. The set includes:
1) 2-1/2" German silver and steel screwdriver containing a metal bar and a pen nib.
2) 3-1/8" German silver pen handle containing four needle points.
3) 6-1/4" steel dividers with removable needle, pencil, and pen points, and extension bar. The center hinge is marked: Richter, followed by the Richter trademark.
4) 5-5/8" steel fixed-leg dividers. The center hinge is marked: Richter, followed by the Richter trademark.
5) 5-1/8" steel and 4-7/8" wood, German silver, and steel drawing pens. The blades are marked: PAT. AUG 9, 92 (/) MAY 7, 95. The backs of the blades are marked: T. A. & SON. These marks indicate the pens were made by Theodore Alteneder & Sons of Philadelphia. The pens do not fit their slots in the case and may not be original to the set.
6) 4-1/4" steel bow dividers, bow pencil, and bow pen. The side of each instrument is marked: D.R.P. (Richter held German patents on several of its drawing instruments.) Below the mark is the Richter trademark.
The Smithsonian received this object in 1964. A date around 1930 would be consistent with other items received in the accession. The instruments are almost certainly newer than those in the similar set, 2007.0039.01.
References: D. M. Riches, "E. O. Richter," http://www.mathsinstruments.me.uk/page51.html; Ferdinand A. Alteneder, "Drawing Pen" (U.S. Patent 480,541 issued August 9, 1892) and (U.S. Patent 538,811 issued May 7, 1895).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
early 20th century
maker
E. O. Richter & Co.
ID Number
MA.325684
accession number
257193
catalog number
325684
On one face this 12" steel triangular rule has scales for 3/16" and 3/8" to the foot. Between these scales is a scale divided to 3/32", numbered from left to right by twos from 0 to 62, and numbered from right to left by fours from 4 to [1]24.
Description
On one face this 12" steel triangular rule has scales for 3/16" and 3/8" to the foot. Between these scales is a scale divided to 3/32", numbered from left to right by twos from 0 to 62, and numbered from right to left by fours from 4 to [1]24. The second face has a scale of inches numbered by ones from 1 to 12. The first two inches are divided to 1/128"; the next two inches are divided to 1/64"; inches 4–6 are divided to 1/32"; inches 6–8 are divided to 1/16"; and inches 8–12 are divided to 1/8".
The third face also has a scale of inches numbered by ones from 1 to 12. The first two inches are divided to 1/100"; the next two inches are divided to 1/50"; inches 4–6 are divided to 1/20"; inches 6–8 are divided to 1/96"; inches 8–10 are divided to 1/48"; and inches 10–12 are divided to 1/24". This side is marked: W. Metcalf 1882.
Sisters Elizabeth Henshaw Metcalf (1852–1925) and Sarah Spathding Metcalf (1858–1939) donated this rule to the Smithsonian in 1931, within several containers of materials sent from the family home in Worcester, Mass. The bulk of the materials were ethnographic specimens collected by the women as they visited and lived in the Philippines at various times between 1905 and their deaths. The name on the rule probably refers to their brother, Wallace Metcalf (1854–1904). He graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1873, lived with his sisters for many years, and worked in Worcester as a civil engineer.
References: Cherubim A. Quizon, "Two Yankee Women at the St. Louis Fair: The Metcalf Sisters and their Bagobo Sojourn in Mindanao," Philippine Studies 52, no. 4 (2004): 527–555; "Alumni Notes," The Journal of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute 7, no. 4 (May 1904): 355; accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1882
owner
Metcalf, W.
ID Number
MA.362778
accession number
114868
catalog number
362778
This large wooden case is lined with yellow silk and velvet. The inside of the case is marked: R. H. HRONIK.
Description
This large wooden case is lined with yellow silk and velvet. The inside of the case is marked: R. H. HRONIK. A wooden tray lifts out and holds:
1) 8-1/8" German silver and steel proportional dividers, marked for lines from 1/10 to 11/12 and for circles from 7 to 20.
2) 5-1/4" German silver dotting pen with clear plastic handle.
3) 5-1/4" German silver and steel drawing pen with black plastic handle. The tightening screw is marked: POST'S (/) GERMANY. The Frederick Post Company of Chicago began importing and distributing drawing instruments and slide rules in 1890.
4) 4" German silver and steel dividers with removable points and needle and pencil point attachments.
5) Four pencil leads, ranging from 1-1/2" to 4-1/4". The longest is marked: L. & C. HARDTMUTH, Inc. KOH-I-NOOR 3H. Joseph Hardtmuth began making earthenware in Vienna, Austria, in 1790 and expanded into graphite leads in 1802. The firm moved to České Budějovice, now in the Czech Republic, in 1848 and concentrated exclusively on pencils from 1870. It remains in business as of 2013 as Koh-i-Noor Hardtmuth.
6) 6-1/4" German silver and steel dividers with removable points and extension bar, dotting point, pencil point, needle point, and pen point attachments.
7) 7-1/4"metal trammel bar for a beam compass, with two 7" extensions, divider point, pen point, two pencil points, and screw-on needle point.
8) Key with metal tag engraved on one side: R. H. HRONIK. The other side is engraved: DRAFTING SET.
9) 3" ivory, German silver, and steel bow compass missing both needle points.
10) 5-1/4" German silver and steel tripod fixed-leg dividers.
11) 1-1/2" cylindrical metal case with five pieces of pencil leads and 1-3/8" cylindrical metal case with six pencil leads.
12) 1-3/8" loose steel needle point.
Empty spaces in the tray indicate that at least the following items are missing from the set: 5" dividers, 3-1/2" bow pencil, 3-1/2" bow pen, trammel point, 5" drawing pen, and 4" ruling pen. Additionally, the two pens in the tray are shorter than their slots and so likely are replacements. A piece of paper in the bottom tray has a handwritten note in ink that was probably prepared by Smithsonian staff: R. H. HRONIK (/) part of same (/) accession (/) late 1890's (/) not later than 1902.
The donor, Richard H. Hronik (1911–2003), was born in St. Louis to Joseph J. (1888–1972) and Gladys Hronik. He grew up in Cedar Rapids, Ia., and graduated from Iowa State College in 1934, where he belonged to the Alpha Mu chapter of Theta Chi fraternity. He was a major in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. He held a number of patents in transportation engineering and did design work relating to railroad systems built for the Indian government. By 1962, he worked for Melpar, Inc., located in Falls Church, Va., as a materials science engineer. He gave at least 129 pieces of electronics equipment; drafting, woodworking, and machine tools; and calculating machines to the Smithsonian in at least three separate accessions.
The set may have been owned by Hronik's grandfather, Frank Hronik (1860–about 1939), who was born in Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), moved to Cedar Rapids in 1884, and by 1900 was a railroad machinist for the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railway, which was succeeded by the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railway in 1903. In 1887 he married Mary Hronik, who was born in Bohemia in 1864 and brought to this country by her parents in 1867.
Reference: Koh-i-noor Hardtmuth, "History," http://www.koh-i-noor.cz/en/history.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
ID Number
MA.326146
accession number
257457
catalog number
326146
This 19" wooden T-square has a curved top piece attached to the handle by two steel screws. The back of the top piece has a ridge for positioning against a table. A hole at the end of the handle is for hanging the instrument. It has no markings.
Description
This 19" wooden T-square has a curved top piece attached to the handle by two steel screws. The back of the top piece has a ridge for positioning against a table. A hole at the end of the handle is for hanging the instrument. It has no markings. The dating of other objects from this donor suggests this object was made about 1900. Compare to MA.328396 and MA.328398.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
ID Number
MA.328397
accession number
272517
catalog number
328397
This wooden pocket-sized case is covered with black sharkskin. Inside the lid is marked: Allen A. Jones.
Description
This wooden pocket-sized case is covered with black sharkskin. Inside the lid is marked: Allen A. Jones. The set includes: a 3-7/8" brass semicircular protractor; a 4-3/4" ivory sector with a brass hinge; a 4-1/2" ivory plotting scale; 5-1/4" brass and steel dividers with a removable leg and separate pen point and crayon holder (containing a lead pencil whittled down to fit the holder); a 5" brass and steel drawing pen; a 3-5/8" brass and steel drawing compass with pen point; and 4-1/2" brass and steel fixed-point dividers. All of the pieces may be original except for the pencil.
The protractor is divided to single degrees and numbered by tens in both directions from 10 to 170. The plotting scale has diagonal scales at both ends. Above the plotting scale are scales divided to 1/10" and numbered by ones from 1 to 4, and divided to 1/12" and numbered by tens from 10 to 30. The back of the plotting scale has scales dividing the inch into 55, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, and 20 parts and a line of chords.
One side of the sector has three double scales: sines, running from 10 to 80 degrees; tangents, running from 50 to 75 degrees; and a second tangent scale, running from 10 to 45 degrees. The outer edge of both legs has scales for logarithmic tangents, sines, and numbers. The top edge of the instrument has a scale divided to 1/12" and numbered by tens from 70 to 10.
The other side of the sector has a double scale along the fold line for regular polygons, from 12 to 6 sides. Both legs have scales of equal parts, running from 1 to 10 and labeled L; of secants, running from 40 to 75 and labeled S; and of chords, running from 10 to 60 and labeled C. The outer edge has a scale divided to 1/10" and numbered by ones from 9 to 1. Brass inserts protect points where users would frequently set divider points. The instrument is similar to sectors in the English style made in the mid-19th century. Compare to 1985.0580.06 and MA.333937.
Allen A. Jones, the husband of the donor, used this set in the U.S. Corps of Engineers during World War I and throughout his career as a civil engineer. He inherited the set from an uncle or great-uncle who the family believed had worked as a surveyor in the Chicago area prior to the 1833 founding of that city. The Smithsonian received the set in 1969.
Reference: accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
19th century
ID Number
MA.333944
accession number
305772
catalog number
333944

Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.

If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.