Heat sensitive fire alarm invented by Anthony Iske (1831-1920). Patented by Iske on Aug. 19,1890.
Inside the wooden case, on alarm mechanism/movement, printed in black ink: "J.A. Neiss, Sr." There is also the key to wind the alarm, loose on the floor of the holder.
Anthony Iske was born in France and immigrated to the U.S. in 1847. He moved to Lancaster in 1853 and became an American citizen in 1858. Along with his son, Albert, he held over 200 patents. Most notable of his inventions was the first meat-slicing machine, a model of which is in the collections of the Smithsonian Institution.
The Heat Motor was designed to turn the energy held by heated water into rotational movement. Heating the water in the trough would cause the air in the submerged cylinders to rise. As the engine began to turn, the cylinders would rise above the water, the air inside would cool, and the cylinders would fall on the opposing side, adding to the circular motion of the engine.
Stiletto or awl of steel with wood handle and handmade protective tip.
Tool has a shaft of rounded steel coming to a sharp point. Mounted on a black-painted, turned wood handle, largest at end and tapering toward steel shaft where it terminates with two turned rings.
A chromed metal slide glides along tool shaft and is clamped in place with a knurled screw. Stamped on this slide is "PATD' APR-6-09" (or 00) and nearby is a symbol with the words "TRADE/ MARK."
Stiletto is fitted with a protective tip made of a bottle cork with crocheted cover and crocheted top ring.
Provenance
Collected by Lillian Hollings Kiker, born to Scottish Americans who lived in New Jersey. Born (1912) and lived in New Jersey, last of Egg Harbor, she was active with quilting, sewing, knitting & crocheting. Collection inherited by donor when her mother passed away.
Fireman's Ax with blade on one end and pick on the other. Curved wooden handle fits into metal head. In black letters on handle "Schiffler Fire Company No. 7" Number 7 painted on both sides in center of ax head.
