Science & Mathematics

Chemical Balance

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.

Topic: Calculating Machines

Account-o-Graph Calculating Machine

This lever-set, manual non-printing proportional rod calculating machine has a black steel frame and a steel base. Nine levers move forward to set numbers, with a row of windows in front of the levers showing the number set.
Description
This lever-set, manual non-printing proportional rod calculating machine has a black steel frame and a steel base. Nine levers move forward to set numbers, with a row of windows in front of the levers showing the number set. Right of the levers is the operating crank.
In front is a carriage that moves when a release button is pushed. It has eight numeral wheels to record revolutions of the crank, and 16 numeral wheels to record results. These wheels are covered with glass. Numbers also may be set in the result register by rotating thumbscrews in the front of the carriage. This is done to set a dividend. Below the thumbscrews is a lever for zeroing the result register. There is a space for another zeroing bar or lever, but it has broken off.
To the left of the setting levers and what may be a second carriage release button are two levers. One may be set at N or C. When it is set at N, the number in the revolution register increases by one whenever the crank is rotated. When it is at C, one rotation leads to subtraction in the revolution register. The other lever may be set at ADD.MULT or SUBT.DIV., depending on the arithmetic operation desired.
A brass tag screwed to the top of the machine reads: THE-ACCOUNT-O-GRAPH (/) MONTREAL. It also reads: MODEL M. A mark on carriage on the left reads: MADE IN GERMANY. A mark on the middle of the back of the machine reads: 2438.
This machine closely resembles the Mercedes-Euklid Model 1. It is from the collection of L. Leland Locke.
Compare MA.330821.
An application for a design trademark for a calculating machine called The Account-o-Graph was filed in the United States September 2, 1913, and granted shortly thereafter. The application stated that the term had been used in commerce since May of that year hence the date of the object.
References:
C. Hamann, "Calculating Machine," U.S. Patent 1,011,617, December 12, 1911. This patent was assigned to the Mercedes Bureau-Maschinen Gesellschaft of Berlin.
Official Gazette of the United States Patent Office, vol. 195, #2, October 14, 1913, p. 531.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1913
ID Number
MA.311950
catalog number
311950
accession number
155183

Abbot Periodometer

By the 1920s, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory had established three observatories to monitor the influx of solar radiation at the surface of the earth.
Description
By the 1920s, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory had established three observatories to monitor the influx of solar radiation at the surface of the earth. To find periodic fluctuations in the annual insolation, Smithsonian Secretary Charles Greeley Abbot designed this instrument. Given a suspected period determined by eye, an operator could use the periodometer to compute the mean value of the insolation for each point of the cycle and the shape of the variation over this period. This variation could then be subtracted from the observations, revealing further periodicities.
The instrument consists of two large interconnected brass drums that rotate on a common shaft that is mounted on a wooden base. there is a cover. The mechanism is described in detail in the references.
The device was built by Andrew Kremer at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, with the two large barrels supplied to order by the Gaertner Scientific Corporation of Chicago. A grant of $1000 from the Research Corporation of New York provided funding. The machine was operated for many years by Gladys T. Bond of the SAO.
Later astrophysicists questioned whether the periodicities detected by Abbot and his colleagues corresponded to changes in the solar constant or arose from other causes.
References: C. G. Abbot, “The Periodometer: An Instrument for Finding and Evaluating Periodicities in Long Series of Observations,” Smithsonian Miscellaneous Collections, vol. 87 #4 (1932).
“Evaluating Periodicities by Machinery,” Nature, vo. 129 (7 May 1932), pp. 684.
C. G. Abbot and Mrs. A. M. Bond, “Periodicity in Solar Variation,” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 19 (1933), pp. 361-370.
"Abbot's Weather Machine Praised," Washington Post, February 14, 1932.
DeVorkin, D., "Defending a Dream: Charles Greeley Abbot’s Years at the Smithsonian," Journal for the History of Astronomy. 1990;21(1):121-136.
“Mrs. Gladys T. Bond, 55, Smithsonian Employee,” Washington Post, December 20, 1951.
Sterne, Theodore, "On Periodicities in Measures of the Solar Constant," Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 25 (1939), pp. 559-564 .
Sterne, Theodore, “On Possible Changes in the Solar "Constant," The Observatory, vol. 63 (1940), pp. 183-185.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1932
maker
Smithsonian Institution
ID Number
MA.314627
accession number
208046
catalog number
314627

Baldwin Calculating Engine

This is one of few surviving examples of a production model of the pinwheel calculating machine patented by Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis in 1875. On a pinwheel calculating machine, digits are represented by retractable pins.
Description
This is one of few surviving examples of a production model of the pinwheel calculating machine patented by Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis in 1875. On a pinwheel calculating machine, digits are represented by retractable pins. Setting the machine consists of moving levers that release an appropriate number of pins, which are engaged when the crank rotates. Baldwin’s pinwheel mechanism was not widely adopted in the United States, although the pinwheel machine proposed slightly later by the Swede W. T. Odhner was most influential.
This non-printing machine has a brass base with two brass pieces on the side that serve as a frame. The brass has a dappled finish. A brass cylinder is mounted horizontally toward the back on a shaft that joins the pieces of the frame. The cylinder is 7 cm. (4-3/4”) in radius and 7 cm. in length. It has six round holes on each end. The cylinder may be moved along the shaft by releasing a catch on the left side and rotating the large crank on the left. Rotating this crank also drives the machine.
The surface of the cylinder has eight oval openings that reveal a set of number wheels, and two rows of four metal buttons. A brass screw is on the left end. By depressing a button and turning the screw, one changes the digit showing in one hole and the number of pins protruding from the other side of the cylinder.
In this way, one can enter up to eight-digit numbers. When the cylinder is turned, the pins act on a set of intermediate wheels that move both smaller, upper wheels toward the front to show a result as large as 17 digits, and lower wheels that indicate the multiplier, up to eight digits. Beneath each of these rows is a slide to indicate decimal divisions. A lever at the left front of the machine lifts a set of small rubber wheels, making it possible to zero the result wheels using a small crank on the right.
The machine has no maker’s mark.
Compare to the patent model, MA.252698.
Baldwin made ten of these machines, including the patent model. This example was owned by Joseph S. McCoy, actuary of the U. S. Treasury from 1889 until his death in 1931. McCoy and his predecessor, Ezekial Brown Elliott, were most open to inventions in adding machines.
Reference:
Accession file.
References:
F. S. Baldwin, "Improvement in Calculating-Machines," U.S. Patent 159244, February 2, 1875.
“Baldwin’s Arithmometer,” Philadelphia, Reliance Machine Works, about 1875. This brochure indicates that Baldwin’s calculating engine sold for between $150 and $250.
Katsunori Kadokura, “Wann baute ”Odhner” seine erste Maschine, 1874 oder 1876?,” #29, Historische Bürowelt, 1990, pp. 7–8.
P. A. Kidwell, “The Adding Machine Fraternity at St. Louis: Creating a Center of Invention, 1880–1920,” IEEE Annals of the History of Computing, 22 #2 (April-June 2000), pp. 4–21.
L. Leland Locke, “The History of Modern Calculating Machines, an American Contribution,” American Mathematical Monthly, 31 #9 (Nov 1924), pp. 422–429.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1875
maker
Baldwin, Frank S.
ID Number
MA.310229
catalog number
310229
accession number
113246

Marchant Model A Standard Calculating Machine

On February 23, 1911, Rodney H. Marchant of Oakland, California applied for a patent for an improvement in calculating machines. The machine he envisioned was a pinwheel device, with a superior carriage to that of the Odhner, Brunsviga, and Dactyle calculating machines. R. H.
Description
On February 23, 1911, Rodney H. Marchant of Oakland, California applied for a patent for an improvement in calculating machines. The machine he envisioned was a pinwheel device, with a superior carriage to that of the Odhner, Brunsviga, and Dactyle calculating machines. R. H. Marchant soon joined with his brother to manufacture machines under the name of Marchant Brothers. In 1913, the Marchant Calculating Machine Company took over the assets of Marchant Brothers and began a systematic campaign to sell its machines, particularly in the western United States. This is an example of a relatively early machine, manufactured under 1911 and 1916 patents of R. H. Marchant.
The lever-set non-printing pinwheel machine has a black steel housing, a wooden base, and a black metal case. Nine levers rotate to set the pinwheels, with color-coded numbers marked on the spaces between them. A bar in front of the levers can be shifted to assist in zeroing them. A steel crank with a wooden handle that extends from the right side of the machine rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows that show dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry mechanism. The digits in this register are white for additions and red for subtractions. Decimal markers slide above both the registers on the carriage. A lever at the bottom front of the machine is depressed to allow shifting of the carriage. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell on the left end of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero.
The metal case fits over the machine and its wooden base, with a key at the front and four rubber feet. The machine and base are separated by a layer of felt, as on other pinwheel machines. The screws holding the machine to the base are missing.
A mark on a metal tag attached to the front of the machine reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. A mark scratched on the back of the machine reads: 2056. A mark on the back of the carriage at the left reads: 306. A mark on the case reads: MARCHANT (/) OAKLAND, CAL.
Compare Marchant calculating machines 311952 (different shift control from 323602, Pony size), 314637 (different shift control from 323602), 323602, and 335268. Also compare these machines to Brunsviga machines 313426, 315904, etc.
This example of a Marchant calculating machine is from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
References:
R. H. Marchant, "Calculating-Machine," U.S. Patent 994,414, June 6, 1911.
R. H. Marchant, "Calculating-Machine," U.S. Patent 1,172,817, February 22, 1916. Marchant filed for this patent in 1914.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1917
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.323602
accession number
250163
catalog number
323602
maker number
2056/306

Simplex Calculating Machine

This key-set, non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a metal case painted black. Each of the nine columns of keys has nine black plastic keys. Between each row of keys, rods that are black on one side and white on the other serve as decimal markers.
Description
This key-set, non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a metal case painted black. Each of the nine columns of keys has nine black plastic keys. Between each row of keys, rods that are black on one side and white on the other serve as decimal markers. The crank for operating the machine angles out of the right side, at the front. A lever near it is marked Repeat in one position and Release in the other. In the front on the left is a lever that may be intended for shifting the carriage. Above the keyboard is a row of nine windows. This indicates a number set on the keys. On the left side is a lever. It is marked Subt.& Div. in one position and Add.& Mult. in the other.
In back of the keyboard is a carriage with two rows of windows. The front row holds nine digits, and the back row, 16. On the right side of the carriage, a zeroing knob ia next to each row of windows. The machine has four rubber feet.
A mark on the left front reads: Simplex. A mark under the carriage on the left side reads: 2741. A paper tag hanging from the object reads: 28.
This machine closely resembles a Record calculating machine. Compare to MA.311949. It is number 28 in the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Reference:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 274–276.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1925
ID Number
MA.323612
accession number
250163
catalog number
323612

Burkhardt Arithmometer

The manufacture of calculating machines, which began in France, widened to include Germany in the late 1870s with the introduction of Burkhardt arithmometers. This stepped drum, manually operated non-printing instrument is a somewhat later form of Burkhardt’s machine.
Description
The manufacture of calculating machines, which began in France, widened to include Germany in the late 1870s with the introduction of Burkhardt arithmometers. This stepped drum, manually operated non-printing instrument is a somewhat later form of Burkhardt’s machine. It has eight German silver levers for setting numbers; an operating crank right of the levers; and an addition & multiplication / subtraction & division lever left of the levers. The operating crank folds down so that the lid closes. Left of this a small compartment with a slate cover that holds a black knob.
When one pushes up the addition & multiplication/subtraction & division lever, it pushes back a set of ten gears that are linked to shafts coming from the stepped drums. In this position, these gears turn the gears of the result register clockwise (if looked at from the inside), and the number in the result register increases. If the lever is down, the gears on the shafts turn the gears of the result register counterclockwise, so that the number in the result register decreases.
Behind the levers is a carriage with a nine-window revolution register and a 16-window result register. Both registers have thumbscrews for setting numbers. A small crank on the right side of the machine clears the revolution register and another crank on the left side clears the result register. When these cranks are in use, a brass bar extends out the sides of the carriage. Holes for decimal markers are between the levers and between the windows of the registers. Two brass decimal markers fit in these holes. When the entry in the result register becomes negative (as it might in subtraction or division), a bell rings. It rings again if a number is added so the result is once again zero or positive.
A mark on the top of the machine, left of the entry levers, reads: Arth.Burkhardt (/) Glashütte(Sa) (/) Nr557.
A mark on the outside of the wooden case reads: RECHEN- (/) MASCHINE. Glued to the inside of the lid of the wooden case is a paper label with operating instructions in German. Written in ink on this sheet is the mark: Made in Germany.
Further instructions received with the machine are stored separately. The last date indicated on the instructions received with this machine is 1886. The instructions are stamped WEIGHTS AND MEASURES (/) U.S.C.&G. SURVEY, with an illegible date.
A mark on the front edge of the case reads: B.S.219. The machine apparently was transferred from the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey to the National Bureau of Standards some time after the latter organization was founded in 1901. From there it came to the Smithsonian.
Burkhardt exhibited at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. “More than 500 machines have been supplied to all parts of the world,” the maker claimed at that time.
Compare MA.313158, MA.313519, MA.323624 and MA.323597.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 78–82.
German Exhibition, Group 21, Special Catalogue of the Collective Exhibition of Scientific Instruments and Appliances . . . ., 1893, p. 15.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1895
maker
Arthur Burkhardt
ID Number
MA.313158
accession number
177275
catalog number
313158

Monroe Calculating Machine (Model D?)

This is an early model of the full-keyboard, modified stepped drum, manually operated non-printing calculating machine manufactured by the Monroe Calculating Machine Company on patents of Frank S. Baldwin.The machine has a steel frame painted black.
Description
This is an early model of the full-keyboard, modified stepped drum, manually operated non-printing calculating machine manufactured by the Monroe Calculating Machine Company on patents of Frank S. Baldwin.
The machine has a steel frame painted black. The eight columns of plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit represented. The key stems are banked, standing up further toward the back of the machine. At the front of the keyboard is a row of red keys each of which clears the column above it. On the right side, in this row, is a red key for clearing the entire keyboard. There are no strips between columns of keys. Two silver-colored knobs have arrows on them. The one on the right is used for automatic keyboard release in continuous addition. The one on the left is the register key for the item counter.
In back of the keyboard is a carriage with 16 black total register dials and eight revolution register dials behind the total dials. The dials of the revolution register are numbered around the edge from 9 to 0 white and from 9 to 1 in red. The metal operating handle with a wooden knob painted brown is on the right side. Another handle on the right side of the carriage zeros the total register or the revolution register, depending on the direction in which it is turned. There is no knob to lift the carriage. An all-metal crank at the front of the machine is rotated to move the carriage. The carriage has sliding decimal markers for both registers.
The machine is marked at the center of the back edge, underneath the carriage: 20. A mark on the front reads: MONROE (/) Calculating Machine Company (/) New York. There is no mention of a trademark. A sticker on the back reads: PATENTED JUNE 16, 1908 (/) OTHER U.S. AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) PENDING.
Compare to MA.317389. Both machines have the same number of keys, the same number of entries in the revolution counter and result registers, and the same mark on the sticker on the back. The mark on MA.317389 mentions a trademark. The color-coding of the keys, the color of the machine handles and shift lever, and the mechanism for the carriage shift differ between the machines. Object MA.317389 has rotating rods that serve as decimal dividers on the keyboard, and a considerably larger serial number, which begins with a D. Hence that machine is given a slightly later date.
Reference:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, p. 265.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1914
maker
Monroe Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.307385
catalog number
307385
maker number
none found
accession number
67982

Monroe Model D Calculating Machine

This is an early model of the full-keyboard, modified stepped drum, manually operated, non-printing calculating machine manufactured by the Monroe Calculating Machine company on patents of Frank S. Baldwin.The machine has a steel frame, painted black.
Description
This is an early model of the full-keyboard, modified stepped drum, manually operated, non-printing calculating machine manufactured by the Monroe Calculating Machine company on patents of Frank S. Baldwin.
The machine has a steel frame, painted black. The eight columns of plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digits represented. The key stems are banked, standing up further toward the back of the machine. At the front of the keyboard is a row of red keys, each of which clears the column above. On the right side, in this row, is a red key for clearing the entire keyboard.
Behind each column of keys is a double disc with teeth of varying length protruding from it that serves as a stepped drum. One disc has five teeth on it, and the other has four. Pushing the appropriate key causes one or both of the discs to approach one another so that they are engaged when a crank on the right side turns, entering the appropriate number into the mechanism.
Between the rows of keys are metal strips, painted black on one side and white on the other. They rotate to serve as decimal markers. Two silver-colored knobs have arrows on them. The one on the right is used for automatic keyboard release in continuous addition. The one on the left is the register key for the item counter.
In back of the keyboard is a carriage with 16 black total register dials and eight white and red revolution register dials behind the total dials. Between the windows for these registers are two thin metal rods that carry decimal markers. Another handle on the right side of the carriage zeros the total register or the revolution register, depending on the direction in which it is turned. A knob on the right side of the carriage is used to lift it. A crank at the front of the machine rotates to move the carriage.
A mark on the front of the machine reads: MONROE (/) REGISTERED TRADEMARK (/) Calculating Machine Company (/) New York, U.S.A. A sticker toward the left on the carriage reads in ink: CLEARING. A mark at the center of the back reads: D1749. A mark under the carriage on the right reads: 1749. A sticker on the back of the machine reads: PATENTED JUNE 16, 1908 (/) OTHER U.S. AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) PENDING.
Compare MA.307385. The latter machine has a different carriage shift mechanism, a lower serial number, and a different color-coding of the keys. It has no decimal dividing rods between the keys, and no mention of a trademark. It has a different way of marking decimal divisions on the carriage and has been assigned a slightly earlier date.
Monroe first used the name Monroe to describe its products in 1913. The company applied for a trademark on April 7, 1919, and was granted it onJanuray 20, 1920.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, p. 265.
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Registration 129029, Serial #71117235.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1915
maker
Monroe Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.317389
catalog number
317389
maker number
D1749
accession number
230394

Friden Model STW 10 Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted gray-brown and ten columns of color-coded brown and light tan plastic number keys, with a blank light tan key at the bottom of each column.
Description
This full-keyboard, electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted gray-brown and ten columns of color-coded brown and light tan plastic number keys, with a blank light tan key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys and under the keyboard turn to indicate decimal places. A small brown and tan bar slides to the right to reset the decimal rods. On the right are two columns of function bars. The capabilities of the Friden STW-10 are quite similar to those of the earlier ST-10, although the exterior design and color are different.
On the left is a ten-digit register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. Below it is a block of nine tan digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by three levers and four function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 20-digit result register. Gray-brown plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons are under the revolution register as well. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the top right of the carriage. All three registers have sliding decimal markers.
The donor reported a date for the machine of 1960 and said that the initial price was $880. Jorgenson gives the same date. Carl Holm gives 1956 the date of manufacture.
Compare MA.334379, MA.335419 and 1984.3079.04.
References:
Accession File.
Ernie Jorgenson., Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 5.
Carl Holm, “Milestones in the Development of Friden.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1960
maker
Friden Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.335419
accession number
319049
maker number
STW 10 635028
catalog number
335419

Grant Calculating Machine

In the early 1890s, as the Columbian Exposition in Chicago drew near, George B. Grant once again turned his attention to improvements in calculating machines.
Description
In the early 1890s, as the Columbian Exposition in Chicago drew near, George B. Grant once again turned his attention to improvements in calculating machines. According to the donor, this model represents his first attempt to improve on his 1876 machine.
The non-printing, barrel-type machine has a wooden base, metal plates for a frame on each side, and four cross shafts that are linked by gears. When the handle on the right side is turned, two of the shafts rotate. The upper of these shafts has eight geared, rotating rings on a common collar. This collar may be moved to several positions along the shaft.
The lower shaft has ten geared wheels. There is space for numbers to be written on the rim of both the upper and the lower wheels. Each of the upper wheels has one tooth in its gear that protrudes further than the others. The back shaft has ten components on it that may be designed to link the upper wheels to those below.
This machine was given to the museum by George B. Grant’s half-brother, Edwin A. Bayley.
Reference:
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1893
maker
Grant, George B.
ID Number
MA.310646
catalog number
310646
accession number
118852

Barbour Calculating Machine Model

This rough model of a calculating machine that would multiply a number by a digit directly and print the result was submitted to the U.S. Patent Office by Edmund D. Barbour in 1872. It has a rectangular wooden base with nine grooves in it.
Description
This rough model of a calculating machine that would multiply a number by a digit directly and print the result was submitted to the U.S. Patent Office by Edmund D. Barbour in 1872. It has a rectangular wooden base with nine grooves in it. The rightmost groove contains a rectangular brass plate with nine rows of teeth in it. The first row has one tooth, the second, two, and so forth. This plate has a metal handle, marked with the digits from 1 to 9, that can be pulled forward to enter a digit. It is a modification of the cylinder in Barbour’s patent 130404 (see MA.309172 ). A complete machine would have nine such plates.
To the right of the grooved wooden base and its metal plate is another brass plate on which is mounted a mechanism for controlling a slide that is supposed to move over the rectangular plate, carrying out desired arithmetic operations. In this machine, multiplication is carried out by repeated motion of the slide, rather than in a single motion as in Barbour’s earlier invention. Two rotating sets of brass gears, each equipped with a type wheel, are intended to demonstrate how the results of calculations might be printed automatically. The object has no maker’s marks. No successful product emerged directly from Barbour’s patents.
Compare MA.309172, MA.309173, and MA.318168.
The Edmund D. Barbour who took out this patent was probably Edmund Dana Barbour (1841–1925), a Boston native who reportedly gained a fortune in the China trade before returning to Boston in 1871, not long before taking out this patent. Barbour took our two other patents calculating machines, invested successfully in the Bell Telephone Company, carried out extensive genealogical research, and left most of his fortune in bequests to Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Radcliffe College.
References:
Edmund D. Barbour, "Improvement in Calculating Machines," U.S. Patent 133188, November 19, 1872.
J.A.V. Turck, Origin of Modern Calculating Machines, Chicago: Western Society of Engineers, 1921, pp. 180–187.
“Sharon’s Rich Men,” Boston Daily Globe, February 20, 1888, p. 6.
“Fund for Three Local Colleges: Edmund D Barbour’s Will Gives Each $20,000 a Year,” Boston Daily Globe, March 13, 1925.
J. Gardner Bartlett, “Edmund Dana Barbour,” The New England Historical and Genealogical Register , vol. 79, October 1925, pp. 339–344.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1872
patentee
Barbour, Edmund D.
maker
Barbour, Edmund D.
ID Number
MA.309173
accession number
89797
catalog number
309173

Monroe Model KA Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, electric, non-printing modified stepped drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black, with rounded corners. The metal plate under the keyboard is painted green.
Description
This full-keyboard, electric, non-printing modified stepped drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black, with rounded corners. The metal plate under the keyboard is painted green. The six columns of plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit represented. A red clearance key is at the bottom of each column. Rods between the rows of keys serve as decimal markers. They are unpainted on one side and painted the same green as the plate under the keyboard on the other.
A column to the right of the number keys has three keys. One clears the entire keyboard. The other two are set to determine whether or not the keyboard clears after each calculation. Above these are plastic bars which may be depressed for electric addition or subtraction. The machine also operates using a removable crank that fits on the right side and rotates clockwise for addition and counterclockwise for subtraction.
In back of the keyboard is a carriage that has a row of 12 numeral dials for recording results and a row of six numeral dials behind these, which serve as a revolution register. The revolution register has no carry. Two thin metal rods between the windows for these registers carry decimal markers. The carriage shift lever is at the front of the machine. To the right of the result register is a knob for lifting the carriage. On the right side of the carriage is the zeroing crank for dials on it. The machine has four rubber feet. The motor is attached to the left side of the machine and has an on-off switch. It has a fraying electrical cord attached. The on-off switch for the bell is on the back left of the keyboard.
A mark on the center back of the machine reads: MONROE (/) Calculating Machine Company (/) New York, U.S.A. A mark on the left bottom edge of the carriage and on the right side of the machine under the carriage gives the serial number A20317. The machine is from after 1924 and before 1939. In the later years, it was known as the KA-120.
Reference:
J. H. McCarthy, The Business Machines and Equipment Digest, 1928, pp. 9-29 to 9-33.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1930
maker
Monroe Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.323614
catalog number
323614
maker number
A20312
accession number
250163

Brunsviga Model C Calculating Machine

In 1892 the German firm of Grimme, Natalis & Company in Braunschweig, which had specialized in sewing machines, purchased the rights to manufacture pinwheel calculating machines on the design of the Swede W. T. Odhner.
Description
In 1892 the German firm of Grimme, Natalis & Company in Braunschweig, which had specialized in sewing machines, purchased the rights to manufacture pinwheel calculating machines on the design of the Swede W. T. Odhner. Under the leadership of the engineer Franz Trinks, they began manufacturing and improving a machine called the Brunsviga. This is a relatively early example.
The lever-set non-printing manually operated machine has a brass and steel mechanism and a metal frame, painted black, with an iron base. Seven slots in the front have levers moved forward to release pins on pinwheels below and set a number. A brass crank with a wooden handle on the right side of the machine rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine, a movable carriage carries ten windows that show dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. Holes for decimal markers above the registers presently contain no markers. Depressing a lever at the front of the machine releases the carriage for shifting. An arrow on the left of the cover of the machine points to the wheel of the revolution counter that will be affected by turning the crank when the carriage is in any one position. Rotating wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zeros the registers on it.
Marks on the top of the machine read: BRUNSVIGA, and: No1750. A mark at the top of a list of patents on the left side of the machine reads: Grimme, Natalis & Co.(/) Braunschweig - Brunswick (/) Patente:W.T. Odhner. The patents are from Germany, Belgium, England, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Hungary, Russia (no number), Luxembourg (no number), and the United States (no number).
This machine came to the Smithsonian from the personal collection of Brooklyn high school teacher L. Leland Locke.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 109–113.
E. Anthes, “Zur Datierung von Brunsviga-Rechenmaschinen, Leertaste, Nr. 6, August, 1982.
F. Schellstede, “Brunsviga. Produktionxzahlen, Absatzzahlen, Werbung. Versuch einer kurzen geschichtlichen Darstellung,” Kassel, 1990.
“Sixty Years of Brunsviga,” Business Equipment Topics vol. 80 (April, 1932), p. 46.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1898
maker
Grimme, Natalis & Co.
ID Number
MA.311947
catalog number
311947
accession number
155183
maker number
1750

Original Odhner Calculating Machine - Lusid Model

After the Russian Revolution of 1917, the owners of the company founded by W. T. Odhner moved from St. Petersburg to Sweden to continue the manufacture of calculating machines. This machine dates from the Swedish phase of the company’s existence.
Description
After the Russian Revolution of 1917, the owners of the company founded by W. T. Odhner moved from St. Petersburg to Sweden to continue the manufacture of calculating machines. This machine dates from the Swedish phase of the company’s existence. It is designed specifically for calculations involving British currency.
The lever-set non-printing machine has a metal frame painted black with ten metal pinwheels and a metal base. Numbers are set by rotating the pinwheels forward using levers that extend from the wheels. Digits inscribed on the frame next to the rotating pinwheels show the number set. The machine has no separate set of windows to show these digits.
The carriage at the front of the machine has 15 windows for the revolution counter on the left. The three central dials have red digits, the others have white digits. The revolution register has no carry mechanism. A group of ten windows for the result register is right of the revolution register. Right of this are two split windows. The split window on the far right has four dials that can show numbers ranging from 0 to 11-3/4, increasing by quarters (for pence). The split window to the left of this has two dials which can show numbers from 1 to 19, increasing by ones (for shillings). A shaped metal piece covers the two split windows and another covers the two right windows of the usual result register. Sliding a lever moves one of these pieces upward and the other downward, so that either the split windows or the two right windows are visible.
Wing nuts at opposite ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. To release the carriage,one pushes down a lever at the front. Pushing other levers moves the carriage a single place to the right or left. A crank with a wooden knob on the right side of the machine rotates clockwise for addition and multiplication, and counterclockwise for subtraction and division. The set of eight pinwheels, the revolution counting register, and the result register each have one or more sliding decimal markers. Moving a lever at the top left of the machine switches between multiplication and division. A lever in front of this apparently relates to the units of currency used in calculations.
A mark on the front reads: AKTIEBOLAGET [/] Original-Odhner [/] GOTEBORG. The serial number marked on the back is: No61606.
This machine comes from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Reference:
Henry Wassen, Odhner History, Gothenburg, Aktiebolaget Original-Odhner, 1951.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1922-1927
maker
Aktiebolaget Original Odhner
ID Number
MA.323604
accession number
250163
catalog number
323604

Burkhardt Arithmometer

Although the arithmometer originated in France, by the early 20th century this German version of the machine sold in Paris.The manually operated non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a brass top plate painted black and a brass and steel mechanism that both fit snugly
Description
Although the arithmometer originated in France, by the early 20th century this German version of the machine sold in Paris.
The manually operated non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a brass top plate painted black and a brass and steel mechanism that both fit snugly in a wooden case. Eight German silver levers move to set numbers. The operating crank is to the right of the levers, and an addition & multiplication / subtraction & division lever is to their left . The operating crank folds down so that the lid closes. At the far left is a compartment with a slate cover
Behind the levers is a carriage with a nine-window revolution register and a 16-window result register. Both registers have thumbscrews for setting numbers. Each window of the revolution register shows the digits from 0 to 9 in black, and from 1 to 8 in red. A bell sounds when the crank has been turned too often in subtraction and a negative number results. It is intended especially for use in division. A knob on the right side of the machine clears the revolution register, and another knob on the left side clears the result register. When these knobs are in use, brass bars extend out the sides of the carriage. Holes for decimal markers are between the levers and between the windows of the registers, but the machine has no decimal markers.
A piece of wood hinged to the back of the case of the machine can be released so that the instrument slopes toward the operator. A panel in the bottom of the case slides across to reveal the brass stepped drums.
The top of the lid of the case and the front of the machine have the mark: BURKHARDT (/) ARITHMOMETER. The back edge of the right side of the carriage has the serial number: N1197. The zeroing knobs are marked with the German patent number: D.R.G.M. (/) No78251. A mark left of the levers reads: GERMANY. A red label glued to the inside of the lid reads: MACHINES A ECRIRE (/) ET A CALCULER (/) ACHAT-VENT-ECHANGE (/) REPARATIONS. . . (/) G. BERNARD. . .(/) PARIS.
This machine came from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Compare 313158, 313519, 323624 and 323597.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1900
maker
Erste Glashütter Rechenmaschininfabrik
ID Number
MA.323597
catalog number
323597
accession number
250163
maker number
N1197

Marchant Calculating Machine Model

This is a model designed to demonstrate “simplified multiplication” on a Marchant calculating machine. It has a rectangular wooden base and a metal frame. The single bank of keys has nine square gray keys on it. The operating handle is on the right side.
Description
This is a model designed to demonstrate “simplified multiplication” on a Marchant calculating machine. It has a rectangular wooden base and a metal frame. The single bank of keys has nine square gray keys on it. The operating handle is on the right side. The shape of the keys suggests that this model is from the mid-1960s, when multiplication keys on SCM Marchant models such as the CFA were square. However, the rest of the mechanism, particularly the wooden base, suggest an earlier date.
A metal tag attached to the base reads: SIMPLIFIED (/) MULTIPLICATION. It also reads: M. A final mark reads: U.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1960s
maker
Marchant
ID Number
MA.335382
catalog number
335382
accession number
318944
maker number
none

Pamphlet, Marchant Deci-Magic Model SK Operating Instructions

This illustrated documentation, held in a red paper folder, gives instructions for operating the Marchant Model SK calculating machine.The materials were received with calculating machine MA.334384.Currently not on view
Description
This illustrated documentation, held in a red paper folder, gives instructions for operating the Marchant Model SK calculating machine.
The materials were received with calculating machine MA.334384.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1962
maker
SCM Corporation
ID Number
MA.313984.02
accession number
313984
catalog number
313984.02

Pamphlet, An An Ingenious Calculating Machine

This article from The American Machinist for November 1, 1906, was received with Millionaire calculating machine 333940.Currently not on view
Description
This article from The American Machinist for November 1, 1906, was received with Millionaire calculating machine 333940.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
MA.319929.06
accession number
319929
catalog number
319929.06

Friden Model C 10 Calculating Machine

The Swedish-born inventor Carl Friden was stranded in Australia during World War I and then, on his way back to Sweden, decided to settle in California. He found a place at the Marchant Calculating Machine Company, taking out several patents for machines manufactured there.
Description
The Swedish-born inventor Carl Friden was stranded in Australia during World War I and then, on his way back to Sweden, decided to settle in California. He found a place at the Marchant Calculating Machine Company, taking out several patents for machines manufactured there. By 1933, he had decided to start his own company. The Friden models A and B appeared in 1934. In 1936 the young company introduced this machine, the model C. It was sold in two sizes, one which allowed entry of numbers up to eight digits long (the C 8) and one allowing ten-digit entries (the C 10). This is a later version of the model C 10, introduced in about 1941.
The full-keyboard, electric non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a metal frame painted gray-brown. The ten columns of color-coded light green and blue-green plastic number keys have a blank green clearance key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between the columns of keys turn to indicate decimal places. On the right are function keys, including a RETURN (/) CLEAR key. This key is not found on the earlier model C10, such as object 1982.243.01. The machine has no special keys for multiplication.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 21-digit result register. The result register has green plastic buttons above it that rotate to set up numbers. Under the revolution register are further numbered buttons. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. Decimal markers slide between the registers on the carriage. The result register also has a sliding marker to cover over a digit. A cord comes out of the back of the machine (it is not a separate part). The machine has strips of metal around the corners, as on later Friden calculating machines.
A mark on the bottom reads: C10-53041. A mark on the sides reads: FRIDEN. A metal tag attached to the right side reads: U.S.NAVY BU.ORDNANCE (/) CONTRACT N ORD. (F) 1236 (/) SY.-SER.NO. (/) IV E B K. A mark painted on right side reads: C810 (/) USN. A paper sticker attached to right side reads: APL/JHU (/) Controller (/) Group (/) 1975 (/) INVENTORY
Compare 1982.0243.01.
The mark on this machine indicates that it, along with MA.335427, was used at the Applied Physics Laboratory of Johns Hopkins University.
The donor dated this machine to 1946 and said that the initial price was $405. The date 1944 is from Jorgenson
References:
E. Jorgenson, Friden Age List, Office Machine Americana, p. 2.
Accession File.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1944
maker
Friden Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.335422
catalog number
335422
accession number
319049
maker number
C10 53041

TIM Unitas Calculating Machine

By the early 20th century, Germans who had gained experience in the calculating machine industry were opening new companies of their own. In 1907 Ludwig Spitz, an attorney who had represented German calculating machine firms, founded Ludwig Spitz & Co. in Berlin.
Description
By the early 20th century, Germans who had gained experience in the calculating machine industry were opening new companies of their own. In 1907 Ludwig Spitz, an attorney who had represented German calculating machine firms, founded Ludwig Spitz & Co. in Berlin. The company sold improved forms of the arithmometer, particularly using designs of the engineer Robert Rein. These machine sold as the “T.I.M.,” which the company said stood for “Time is Money.” A German firm's choice of an English motto associated with Benjamin Franklin is noteworthy. Spitz was particularly proud of the “Unitas” machine, which united two carriages in one, making it possible to compute both subtotals and grand totals.
This relatively early example of the Unitas, made of brass and German silver, fits in a polished wooden case. It has eight levers for setting numbers, with windows behind the levers to show the number set up. Below these are the stepped drums, which are not complete cylinders, but only partial and hollow. They appear to be die–cast from a composite metal.
Behind these is a carriage with a seven-digit revolution counting register and a 12-digit result register. Behind this is a second carriage with a second result register. Metal rods carry sliding decimal markers for each register. The two carriages are held together on the left by a mechanism that can detach the back carriage from the front one.
Left of the digit levers is a lever for setting the machine to addition/multiplication or subtraction/division. When the lever and an adjacent smaller lever are both in the add position, both carriages show results of addition. When the lever is in the upper position and the adjacent lever is in the middle position, the first carriage shows addition and the back one subtraction. A crank for operating machine is at the right front. To the left is a small glass bottle for ink, held in its own compartment.
In the lid of the case of the machine is a table for converting shillings and pence to decimal fractions of an English pound and another table of decimal equivalents. The case can be locked but the key is missing. The bottom of the machine is hinged at the front and may be lifted to sit on metal legs at the back.
A mark on the left front of the machine reads: Ludwig Spitz & Co. (/) TIM (/) TIME IS MONEY (/) TRADE MARK. A mark in front of the setting levers reads: Rechenmaschinenfabrik LUDWIG SPITZ & Co., G. m. b. H., Berlin. A mark stamped on the right edge of the case reads: 0853. A mark stamped on the back edge of the case reads: 367. A mark on the front edge of the front carriage reads: 0724. A mark on the front edge of the back carriage reads: 0557.
This machine comes from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company of Chicago.
From 1909 the Unitas was produced with a metal stand rather than the wooden case.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 194–196.
The Unitas, New York: Oscar Muller & Co., 1908.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1908
maker
Ludwig Spitz & Co.
ID Number
MA.323616
catalog number
323616
accession number
250163

Burkhardt Arithmometer Model E

In 1878 a German firm in Glashütte began making a stepped drum calculating machine with modifications on the design of the engineer Arthur Burkhardt. The company made various improvements in its products over the years.
Description
In 1878 a German firm in Glashütte began making a stepped drum calculating machine with modifications on the design of the engineer Arthur Burkhardt. The company made various improvements in its products over the years. In 1920, not long after Burkhardt’s death, this firm merged with a company in the same city to form Vereinigte Glashütter, the manufacturers of this machine.
The stepped drum, manually operated, non-printing calculating machine has ten levers covered with black and white plastic tops (one top is missing), which are moved upward to set a number. The number entered appears in a row of ten discs above the levers. Four levers do not reset to zero. Left of the levers is a key stem for addition and multiplication and another for subtraction and division. The second key stem has no top. At the front of the machine on the right is a round stem with no key on it.
A crank on the top of the machine at the right has a wooden handle and is rotated clockwise to calculate. Behind the levers is a movable carriage with a row of nine small discs in the revolution register and a row of 16 larger discs in the result register. Zeroing levers for both of these registers are on the right of the carriage. Thin metal rods carry decimal markers for each register. The bottom of the machine has a hard rubber panel and one (of an earlier four) rubber foot.
Marks on the front of the machine, on the left top, and in back read: BURKHARDT-ARITHMOMETER. A mark on the carriage reads: MODELL “E”. Stenciled in paint on the bottom is the mark: MADE IN GERMANY. Engraved on the back edge of the carriage on the right side is the mark: 12108 9564W. A mark below the levers on the front of the machine reads: VEREINIGTE GLASHÜTTER RECHENMASCHINENFABRIKEN - GLASHÜTTE i/SA.
This machine came to the Smithsonian from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Compare MA.313158, MA.313519, MA.323624 and MA.323597.
Reference:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 78–82.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1925
maker
Vereinigte Glashuetter Rechenmachinenfabriken
ID Number
MA.323624
catalog number
323624
accession number
250163
maker number
12108 9564W

Baldwin Adding Machine

In the late 19th century, Wiliam Seward Burroughs of St. Louis pioneered in the introduction of key-set printing adding machines, designed especially to assist banks in keeping track of accounts. The Burroughs Registering Accountant found a considerable market.
Description
In the late 19th century, Wiliam Seward Burroughs of St. Louis pioneered in the introduction of key-set printing adding machines, designed especially to assist banks in keeping track of accounts. The Burroughs Registering Accountant found a considerable market. In August of 1902, calculating machine inventor Frank S. Baldwin proposed this form of a key-set, printing adding machine. It has only one set of keys (the 3 key cover is missing), arranged in the order of a modern telephone touch pad.
A small, unmarked key is to the left of, and above, the “1” key. To the right of the "3" key stem is a threaded metal protrusion. Above the keys is a semicylindrical carriage with a row of nine numeral wheels that indicate the total. At the base of the carriage is a saw toothed bar. A metal arrow points up from the bar as a place marker. A triangular protrusion from the machine surface holds the bar. At the end of the carriage is a screw, perhaps for zeroing. A small lever attached to the bottom left of the carriage may release it to move left or right.
Behind the carriage is a printing mechanism that prints up to nine digits. It is driven by a crank on the right. Reels for the paper tape are behind the mechanism. The wooden knob on the crank folds inward so that the lid of the mahogany box closes. A loose metal handle fits into a hole in the right side of the machine.
A mark on the case of the machine reads: 27-86. No serial number found.
This machine is from the collection of L. Leland Locke, and was once at the Museums of the Peaceful Arts in New York City.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1903
maker
Baldwin, Frank S.
ID Number
MA.311955
accession number
155183
catalog number
311955

Millionaire Calculating Machine

This key-set electric direct multiplication, non-printing calculating machine has a brass mechanism, a metal case with lid, and color-coded plastic keys. The lid and the flat plates that cover the mechanism are painted black. The carriage is entirely within the case.
Description
This key-set electric direct multiplication, non-printing calculating machine has a brass mechanism, a metal case with lid, and color-coded plastic keys. The lid and the flat plates that cover the mechanism are painted black. The carriage is entirely within the case. The ten columns of color-coded black and white plastic keys have nine keys in each column. Painted rods between columns of keys have red, white, and black sides to indicate decimal positions.
A zero (clearance) key is left of the keyboard. Left of it is a crank which may be set between 0 and 9 for direct multiplication and division. Right of the keys is a lever which is set at addition, multiplication, division, or subtraction. Right of it is the operating crank. A row of ten windows in front of the keys shows the number set. These windows are covered with glass and labeled Divisor.
In front of the windows is the carriage, with two other rows of windows. The row closest to the keys (further from the front) indicates the multiplier or quotient, and the other row shows the result or the dividend. The result windows are labeled Dividend and may be set using thumbscrews. Zeroing knobs for both these registers are on the carriage, as well as sliding decimal markers. Between the front two registers, at the left, is a button used to shift the carriage.
Instructions for operating the machine are on a paper sheet inside the lid, along with a cleaning brush, a screw, and a key. The stand carries an electric motor, with wooden shelves on both sides.
A mark in the middle of the front of the machine reads: THE MILLIONAIRE. A metal tag to the right reads: H.W. EGLI S.A. (/) Calculating Machines (/) ZURICH (Switzerland). A metal tag to the left reads: W.A. Morschhauser (/) SOLE AGENT (/) 1 Madison Avenue (/) NEW YORK CITY. Under this tag the serial number mark reads: No 9123. Another mark on the machine reads: BS24326.
For related documentation see MA.319929.03 through MA.319929.07. Compare MA.314579.
The Millionaire with keys for entering numbers was introduced in 1913. According to Ernst Martin, the Millionaire with keys for multiplication was introduced in 1927. This example was used at the U. S. Bureau of Standards and came to be owned by the physicist William F. Meggers.
References:
MADAS 50 Jahre Arbeit.
Ernst Martin, Die Rechenmaschinen und ihre Entwicklungsgeschichte, 2nd edition, 1928, p. 438.
P. A. Kidwell, “American Scientists and Calculating Machines: from Novelty to Commonplace,” Annals of the History of Computing, vol. 12, 1990, pp. 31–40.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1928
maker
Egli, Hans W.
ID Number
MA.333941
accession number
319929
catalog number
333941

Marchant Model ACT10M Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted dark green and ten columns of green and white plastic keys. A maroon tabulator set key is at the bottom of each column.
Description
This full-keyboard non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal case painted dark green and ten columns of green and white plastic keys. A maroon tabulator set key is at the bottom of each column. These keys are numbered from 1 on the right to 10 on the left. The underlying keyboard is gold. Between banks of keys are metal rods for decimal markers.
Right of the number keys are auto divide and stop keys, subtraction and addition bars, shift keys for use in multiplication, and a reverse key. In front of these are clearance keys for the tab set and the dials. Right of these is a column of ten black keys for automatic multiplication and two carriage shift keys. Above the number keys is a row of ten windows to show a number set up (the decimal markers extend from between the number keys to between these windows).
Behind the entry register is a movable carriage with an 20-window result register and an 11-window revolution register. Decimal markers slide above the registers on the carriage. Numbers are represented by the rotation of sets of gears on three shafts under the carriage. The machine has four rubber feet. The motor at the back of the machine is inside the case and attaches to a frayed green rubber cord.
A tag on the bottom of the machine reads: ACT10M-253420. A mark on the sides and on the cord reads: MARCHANT. A paper tag glued to the base of the machine reads: Manufactured by (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING MACHINE COMPANY, Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A. (/) This machine is manufactured under one or more of the following United (/) States and Foreign patents: (/) United States Patent 1858397 [...] 2428206. It also reads:; SILENT SPEED. Only the first and last U.S. patents recorded. Tag also mentions a 1942 Canadian patent and others.
Compare to Harold T. Avery’s 1940 patents 2,216,659, 2,211,736, and 2,217,195. The model ACT10M apparently was produced from 1941 until 1949. Patent 2428206 was issued in 1948.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1948
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.336174
catalog number
336174
accession number
1977.0605
maker number
ACT10M-253420

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.