Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.8 |
Object Name |
Furnace, Locomotive |
Title |
Model of Locomotive Boiler Furnace |
Artist |
Wooten, John E. |
Date |
1876 |
Description |
Steel and cast-iron model of a locomotive firebox supported by a frame, to which is also attached a pair of locomotive wheels, eccentric, and actuating mechanism. Unmarked. |
Label |
John Wootten, a noted engineer for the Philadelphia and Reading Rail Road, probably presented this model to the APS. In 1866, the Society announced a Magellanic Premium contest for the best method of using anthracite coal dust. Still an open contest in 1876, John Wootten submitted a model and description of his locomotive boiler furnace. His submission is the only one described in detail in APS records, and thus this model, while lacking positive identification, has long been considered Wootten’s. The minutes for the November 1877 APS meeting noted that Wootten would be awarded the $500 premium for his invention. By 1879, however, the competition was closed without a winner, and there is no evidence for why Wootten did not receive the premium. Wootten's locomotive design, patented and used as early as 1877 on the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, was also displayed at the 1878 Exposition Universelle in Paris. |
Dimensions |
H-10.5 W-11 L-19 inches |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society |
Search Terms |
19th century nineteenth century invention model engineering transportation Industrial Revolution |