C & C Electric Motor Company Type 1N Electric Fan Motor, circa 1887

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Artifact Overview

Companies began producing small electric motors in the late 1800s to power household appliances like electric fans. The first fans, driven by direct current motors, were bulky and potentially dangerous due to exposed electrical components and blades. Advancements in motor technology--specifically the reliable, compact alternating current motor--and inexpensive electrical power made fans available to a growing number of Americans.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Motor

Date Made

circa 1887

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

31.982.8

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal

Color

Black (Color)
Gold (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 9.5 in
Width: 6.5 in
Length: 8 in

Inscriptions

on plate: C. & C. Electric Motor Co./ 88 90 92 South 5th Ave./ New York, U.S.A./ Patented Dec. 21, 1886/ FAN OUTFIT/ Type 1N No 1991/ 110 Volts [blank] Amperes
C & C Electric Motor Company Type 1N Electric Fan Motor, circa 1887