Alexander Bain Chemical Telegraph Receiving Instrument, 1850-1866. Wooden base, train of clockwork in frame made of 2 cast brass plates bolted together 7" x 11" x 18". Operated by cord and weight; metal disc, 15 1/2" dia. with blotting paper cover and upper metal disc, 6 1/2" dia., having spiral groove or upper surface. Brass standard 8"H supporting moveable arm carrying wire holder and guide; binding posts in base of standard and in frame for connecting wires. Used on lines in New England from about 1850-1866. The blotting paper was treated with a chemical that reacted to electrical impulses by changing color. The disc and paper rotated under the receiving arm leaving a message traced in a spiral pattern.
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