Cutler-Hammer Rheostat, 1898-1920

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

1898-1920

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2016.0.1.65

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Wire

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 4.5 in
Width: 7.75 in
Length: 7 in

Inscriptions

on plate: H.P. 1-2 VOLT 25/ FOR STARTING DUTY ONLY/ THE CUTLER-HAMMER M'F'G CO./MILWAUKEE, WIS,/ PATENTED JAN. 7, 1890 on metal tag: 647