Grant Calculating Machine

Grant Calculating Machine

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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
Object Name
calculating machine model
date made
1893
maker
Grant, George B.
place made
United States: Massachusetts, Lexington
Physical Description
wood (overall material)
steel (overall material)
brass (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 18 cm x 27.5 cm x 11.6 cm; 7 3/32 in x 10 13/16 in x 4 9/16 in
ID Number
MA.310646
catalog number
310646
accession number
118852
Credit Line
Gift of Edwin A. Bayley
subject
Mathematics
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Mathematics
Calculating Machines
Science & Mathematics
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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