Stationary Steam Engine, 1848

01

Artifact Overview

Steam power initially spread in the United States via its adoption and adaptation in ships and boats. This early mill engine's layout and dimensions are firmly rooted in Mississippi riverboat practice, while its applied decorative detail and vibrant color scheme speak to the increasingly elevated status of steam technology as it found a firm footing in mills and factories.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Steam engine (Engine)

Date Made

1848

Creator Notes

Engineered by Addison Low and manufactured by Franklin Machine Works in Albany, New York.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Made in America

Object ID

27.165.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cast Iron
Wrought iron (Iron alloy)
Brass (Alloy)

Dimensions

Length: 6.833 ft
Height: 7.25 ft
Diameter: 8 in (Bore)
Width: 16.25 ft
Length: 30 in (Stroke)

Specifications

Bore: 8 inches
Stroke: 30 inches
Speed: 70 revolutions per minute
Horsepower: 20 estimated
Stationary Steam Engine, 1848