Crocker-Wheeler Rheostat, 1893

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

1893

Creator Notes

Rheostat manufactured by Crocker-Wheeler Electric Company. Enamel coils manufactured by Enamel Electric Mfg. Co., East Orange, New Jersey.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

37.295.5

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Slate (Rock)
Metal
Enamel (Fused coating)

Color

Black (Color)
White (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 11 in
Width: 9.25 in
Length: 11 in

Inscriptions

on plate on top: 2 230 3125 on four sides on grate: CW stamped on enamel coils: PAT'D JAN. 17-'93 AND OTHERS/ ENAMEL ELECTRIC M'F'G CO., EAST ORANGE, N.J./ SOLE M'F'R'S / NO. 24-25
Crocker-Wheeler Rheostat, 1893