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.
A Cannon Pinion, 2 pieces (in a small circular metal container with lid.) Accompanying patent documentation in file). A part for inside a clock.
Cannon Pinion is the heart of the motion works. This piece translates the movement of the wheels on the back into the time keeping display on the front.
A "Galena 'Catwhisker' Wireless Detector" used in early crystal radio. Precision crystal detector with iron pyrite crystal, used in commercial wireless stations.
Mounted on a 3/5-inch square, .5-inch high with beveled edge. 2.5-inch glass tube secured between metal pieces. Screw on side of metal bracket can be removed to uncover the glass tube.
