Steam Engine Lubricator, 1882

THF152419 / Steam Engine Lubricator, 1882
01

Artifact Overview

African American mechanical engineer Elijah McCoy patented this version of his of lubricator in 1882. The many moving parts on a steam locomotive required constant lubrication, and crews had to apply oil regularly. McCoy's lubricator automatically deposited metered amounts of oil, reducing the need for manual lubrication.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Lubricator

Date Made

1882

Place of Creation

Creator Notes

Patented by Elijah McCoy.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Made in America

Object ID

31.2039.2

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Wood (Plant material)
Nickel (Metal)
Plate (Material)
Brass (Alloy)

Dimensions

Height: 16.625 in
Width: 10 in
Diameter: 10 in

02

Related Content

  • A metal Steam Engine Lubricator
    article

    Elijah McCoy’s Steam Engine Lubricator

      Learn how Elijah McCoy, the Black son of formerly enslaved parents, secured at least 52 patents and design registrations during his lifetime--and explore his 1882 steam engine lubricator, on exhibit in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.