Original patent specifications for patent no. 117467, a combination style school desk and seat, designed by James Russell of Plymouth, Indiana. The printed page of the specifications leaves off the 2nd "l" in the patentee's last name, which is clearly evident on the first page and with his signature.
James Russell of Plymouth, IN, received U.S. Patent No. 117467 on July 25, 1871, for his "improved school desk". This model has two separate seats that fold up, with a backrest connected like a bench. There are two attached desks behind the back rest that both have lids that can lift up. The wooden bench seat and desk are made of a dark wood with metal hinges. The desktop is divided to make a pair. The bench on the desk front is split in the same manner as the desktop. There is storage underneath both desks for books. The seats fold up individually. The model and original original patent tags are part of a separate museum acquistion- 1983.0508.07.