Name/Title
Standard Dynamo Floor for Edison Central Stations (May 1887)Description
This is a detailed engineering drawing of a Standard Dynamo Floor designed for Edison Central Stations, dated May 1887. The illustration depicts structural elements, including labeled components such as 3” spruce planking and timber framing. The drawing is executed with precision, showcasing architectural and engineering features of the framework meant to support electrical dynamos, crucial for early power generation.Context
Lewis Latimer inspected the Central Stations that the Edison Company built in various cities to supply electricity to customers. Here he drew a diagram of reinforced floors that reduced the vibrations that could disable the dynamos powering such plants. This drawing reflects the infrastructural planning behind Thomas Edison's Central Power Stations, which were pioneering in bringing electricity to urban centers in the late 19th century. As part of Edison’s early electrical distribution system, these stations housed dynamos (early generators) that provided direct current (DC) electricity. The meticulous detailing in this drawing highlights the careful engineering required to construct stable flooring capable of supporting the weight and vibration of these machines. Lewis H. Latimer, an important contributor to Edison’s work, was involved in drafting, engineering, and patenting key innovations in electric lighting and infrastructure during this period.Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Inscription/Signature/Marks
Transcription
Standard Dynamo Floor
for
Edison Central Stations
May 1887
Scale ½ = 1
Visible Labels in the Drawing:
O. A. Iron (appears to indicate a structural iron component)
Baths A (possibly referring to a specific section or material treatment)
3” Spruce Planking
Timber 12” x 14”
Latimer (appears faintly as a signature or attribution)