floating dairy thermometer

Date1900-1950

Inventory Number1998-1-0189

ClassificationThermometer

Subject

Maker American

Cultural Region

Dimensions20.5 x 0.9 cm (8 1/16 x 3/8 in.)

Material

DescriptionA thermometer consisting of a relatively thick, air-filled tube with a second narrower glass tube inside that has a mercury capillary. The diameter of the outer tube narrows down at its bottom into a long neck before ending in a spherical bulb filled with mercury and connected to the capillary of the narrower tube. Along the wider part of its body the thermometer has a scale made of paper wrapped on the inside of the outer tube, marked between 10 and 150 degrees (Fahrenheit), and with some important temperatures noted as follows: 32°Freezing 62°Churning 85° Cheese 150° sc[illegible].

The thermometer also has a small glass hoop on top.

Signedunsigned

Inscribedon paper scale: FLOATING DAIRY THERMOMETER

FunctionThis is a thermometer designed for controlling the temperature of dairy products in their making. It has enough air inside, and a long enough neck, so that it can float in the liquid being checked. It has a glass hoop on top to tie it to a string so it can be lowered into hot liquids. It has a range that is relevant for this use and several important temperatures for dairy production are marked [see description].