Favorite Farm Level, Model No. 5691, made by the Keuffel & Esser Co., N.Y., n.d, ca. 1920-1924.
Entry/Object ID
2009.006.0036
Description
Favorite Farm Level, Model No. 5691, manufactured by the Keuffel & Esser Co., N.Y., no date, circa 1920-1924. Wood box with 10" telescope with attached spirit level on revolving frame with graduated circle; fixture to attach to tripod; instruction booklet. No serial number or model number found on the item; model number is on the cover of the directions booklet. Manufacturer's mark is on the underside of the barrel near the eyepiece. Not present is the tripod and leveling rod which were issued as part of a kit described in the catalog.
The catalogue description and instructions indicate that this instrument was for use by someone not trained as a surveyor or engineer. The printed label inside the box lid gives a caution about proper mounting and use.
The booklet, "Directions for Using the Favorite Farm Level No. 5691," is copyrighted 1920 and the first line on page 1 states "Our No. 5691 new [in boldface type] Favorite..." (Booklet, ca. 4" x 5" wide, is 14 pages and appears to be complete; one loose leaf with diagram of level and illustration of leveling rod; this leaf is not in pagination and appear to be lacking the conjugate leaf.) Although this item number does not appear in the 35th edition catalog of 1915 (there were models 5690 and 5692 which were similar), it does appear in an April 1920 price list for the 35th edition; is found in the 38th edition (superseding the previous models); is not in the 40th edition of 1944.
The case is quite worn and soiled.
K+E general offices and factory were in Hoboken during the period when this item was made.
Acquisition
Accession
2009.006
Source or Donor
Lukacs, Claire
Acquisition Method
Gift
Credit Line
Museum Collections. Gift of a friend of the Museum.
