receiving magnet

Date1890-1910

Inventory Number1997-1-0595

ClassificationTelegraph Receiver

Subject

Maker American

Cultural Region

Dimensions12 × 16 × 13.2 cm (4 3/4 × 6 5/16 × 5 3/16 in.)

Material

DescriptionBase consists of a horizontal wooden rectangle, the left edge unsanded. The base is standing on a vertical, rectangular wooden block. Two binding posts are attached to the side of this block, parallel with the base. In the center of the base are two brown metal cylinders. The cylinders are connected at the back by a black metal plate. A screw extends out of this plate into a brass post. A binding post stands to the right of this post. A piece of metal conforms around the cylinders near the front and extends up into a bar. A screw runs through that bar with two adjustment knobs on the back end and a thin metal plate extending down to rest just in front of the cylinders on the front end. Coiled string extends down from the front plate and the top of the bar, each string connecting to one of the binding posts on the lower, vertical block. A rod extends from the plate in front to the base, and there is also a rod that runs horizontally in front of the cylinders through two small L-shaped pieces of metal. There is a further binding post at the front of the base.

Signedsignature illegible

Curatorial RemarksUnsure of maker's name due to corrosion of that area of the instrument.

FunctionThis apparatus was used to receive telegraphic messages.