U.S. Electric Lighting Company Rheostat, circa 1881

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

circa 1881

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

29.1333.329

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant material)

Color

Brown
Gray (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 15 in
Width: 12 in
Depth: 5.75 in

Inscriptions

stamped on front: 2396
U.S. Electric Lighting Company Rheostat, circa 1881