Photo of John J. Diffily's Ornate Cash Register

Object/Artifact

-

Chester Historical Society

John J. Diffily's Ornate Cash Register: The image showcases an ornate, antique cash register with intricate embossed detailing and a polished metallic finish, highlighting its decorative craftsmanship. At the top, the words "AMOUNT PURCHASED" are prominently displayed, while a curved plate in the center bears the name "John J. Diffily" intricately cased, surrounded by elegant floral designs accentuating its vintage charm. Below, a series of numbered keys, ranging from 5 to 95 in increments of five, are arranged in two rows and adorned in dark circular casing, indicating the transaction amounts. The base of the register features an embossed design with the word "National" and further decorative elements, suggesting the brand or model of this historical piece.
John J. Diffily's Ornate Cash Register

The image showcases an ornate, antique cash register with intricate embossed detailing and a polished metallic finish, highlighting its decorative craftsmanship. At the top, the words "AMOUNT PURCHASED" are prominently displayed, while a curved plate in the center bears the name "John J. Diffily" intricately cased, surrounded by elegant floral designs accentuating its vintage charm. Below, a series of numbered keys, ranging from 5 to 95 in increments of five, are arranged in two rows and adorned in dark circular casing, indicating the transaction amounts. The base of the register features an embossed design with the word "National" and further decorative elements, suggesting the brand or model of this historical piece.

Name/Title

Photo of John J. Diffily's Ornate Cash Register

Entry/Object ID

chs-020169

Description

This ornate National Cash Register (NCR), a classic mechanical model was manufactured in Dayton, Ohio. This machine features a highly detailed, nickel-plated chased brass exterior with a personalized marquee for "John J. Diffily". This register appears to be a common standard 25-key model with ornate "Renaissance" or "Dolphin" style casing characteristic of late 19th and early 20th-century NCR models. Before 1915, John J. Diffily was held in high esteem as the barkeeper in the Howland Hotel, opposite the Erie RR Station. In 1935 he operated the Greycourt Inn.

Made/Created

Manufacturer

National Register Company

Date made

circa 1900

Create Date

June 16, 2026

Update Date

July 14, 2026