Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.35 |
Object Name |
Instrument, Measuring |
Title |
Instrument for Measuring the Height of Projections Above a Surface |
Artist |
Unknown |
Description |
Brass triangular base 10 1/2" wide, with three leveling screws and two spirit levels. Upon it a vertical stands carries a triangular frame pivoted at the base. Its long arm carries an adjustable, threaded contact screw. The arm at right angle to this is acted upon by a cam mounted on the stand. Movement of the cam causes a hand to move over a scale from 0 to 220, and the contact screw to rise vertically one inch per 100 divisions. (Robert P. Multhauf, "Catalogue of Instruments and Models," 1961). |
Label |
Little is known about this tool, which was likely used to measure elevations during surveying, much like an octant. Surveying was common in early America, to measure land purchases and to document newly discovered areas of the colonies. |
Material |
Brass and wood |
Dimensions |
H-18 W-10.75 L-13.75 inches |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society |
Search Terms |
surveying measurement navigation scientific instrument |