Bergmann & Company Resistance Box, 1881-1889

01

Artifact Overview

Rheostats vary the amount of electrical resistance in a circuit. They proved beneficial as the use of electrical power expanded in the late 1800s. Among their many applications, rheostats helped motors start safely, controlled motor speed, maintained a constant current in battery chargers, and adjusted volume and light levels.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Rheostat

Date Made

1881-1889

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2016.0.1.16

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Metal
Wire
Wood (Plant material)

Color

Brown

Dimensions

Height: 17.25 in
Width: 17.25 in
Length: 17.5 in

Inscriptions

on plate: No. 20