Compass, 1900-1950
Add to SetSummary
This early 20th-century compass uses a magnetized steel needle that rotates to align with the Earth's magnetic field. With the needle indicating north, users can reference markings around the dial to gain precise bearings. Despite modern GPS technology, compasses remain important navigational instruments for airplanes and ships and for casual use on small boats or recreational hikes.
This early 20th-century compass uses a magnetized steel needle that rotates to align with the Earth's magnetic field. With the needle indicating north, users can reference markings around the dial to gain precise bearings. Despite modern GPS technology, compasses remain important navigational instruments for airplanes and ships and for casual use on small boats or recreational hikes.
Artifact
Compass (Direction indicator)
Date Made
1900-1950
Keywords
On Exhibit
at Henry Ford Museum in Heroes of the Sky
Object ID
2002.0.137.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Brass (Alloy)
Glass (Material)
Dimensions
Diameter: 1.75 in
Inscriptions
on dial: GERMANY
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