Gramercy Bow Compass

Description:

The ridged cylindrical handle on this metal bow pencil is directly attached to a ring. The tops of the legs are pointed. A metal disc between the legs adjusts the width of the instrument. The bow screw is bolted inside the legs and has no nuts on the outsides of the legs. Thumbscrews on the front of one leg and the back of the other adjust the height of the needle and pencil points. The compass is marked: GRAMERCY IMPORT GERMANY.

The Gramercy Import Company began operating around 1930. Robert Behrens Condon studied engineering at the University of Vermont and Columbia University in the late 1940s and early 1950s, which is probably when he purchased this instrument. He operated the New Englander Motor Inn with his politically active wife, Marie, from 1955 to 1978.

Reference: "April Milestones 2012," Friends Journal, http://www.friendsjournal.org/dept-2012-04-milestones/.

Date Made: mid 20th century

Maker: Gramercy Import Co.

Location: Currently not on view

Place Made: Germany

Subject: MathematicsDrawing Instruments

Subject:

See more items in: Medicine and Science: Mathematics, Science & Mathematics, Dividers and Compasses

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Credit Line: Gift of Robert B. Condon

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: 1991.0793.03Accession Number: 1991.0793Catalog Number: 1991.0793.03

Object Name: bow pencilcompass, drawing

Physical Description: metal (overall material)Measurements: overall: 16 cm x 5.4 cm x 1.2 cm; 6 5/16 in x 2 1/8 in x 15/32 in

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a7-4c3b-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_904318

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