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

2016.0.1.72

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Stone (Worked rock)
Wire
Copper alloy

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 5.25 in
Width: 9.75 in
Length: 9 in

Inscriptions

on plate: H.P. 1 VOLTS 110-125/ FOR STARTING DUTY ONLY/ THE CUTLER-HAMMER M'F'G CO./ MILWAUKEE, WISC./ PATENTED JAN. 7, 1890