Surveyor's Compass

Surveyor's Compass

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Description
The form of this compass suggests that it was made in the late 18th century. The "DEAN PHILAD" inscription refers to William Dean who, in an advertisement of June 4, 1792, described himself as a "mathematical instrument maker" who had "commenced business" at No. 43, South Front Street, Philadelphia, "directly opposite the post-office." In another advertisement, this one dated January 31, 1794, Dean announced that he made and sold "Surveying instruments of every description, Theodolets, Circumferentors on an improved plan, with a noneus, &c., Leveling instruments with or without telescopes, Sextants, Quadrants, Mariner’s Compasses, &c. and every article requisite for navigation, surveying, levelling, &c."
Ref: Charles Smart, The Makers of Surveying Instruments in America Since 1700 (Troy, N.Y., 1962), pp. 36-37.
Advertisements in Dunlap’s American Daily Advertiser for June 4, 1792, and January 31, 1794.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
Surveyor's Compass
surveyor's compass
maker
Dean, William
place made
United States: Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
Measurements
overall: 21 cm x 17 cm x 34 cm; 8 1/4 in x 6 11/16 in x 13 3/8 in
overall: 9 in x 12 3/4 in x 6 1/4 in; 22.86 cm x 32.385 cm x 15.875 cm
ID Number
2003.0156.01
accession number
2003.0156
catalog number
2003.0156.01
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Physical Sciences
Surveying and Geodesy
Measuring & Mapping
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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