Patent Drawing of an Electric Lamp – Drawn by Lewis H. Latimer

Name/Title

Patent Drawing of an Electric Lamp – Drawn by Lewis H. Latimer

Description

This photocopy of a technical drawing features a detailed patent illustration of an electric lamp, attributed to H.S. Maxim, with figures demonstrating the internal components and structure of the filament and socket mechanism. The document contains handwritten notes indicating that it was drawn by Lewis H. Latimer in 1880. The notations suggest that this was one of the first drawings Latimer created for Hiram S. Maxim, an engineer and inventor. The illustration includes: Figure 1: A cross-section of the electric lamp showing the inner workings. Figure 2: An external view of the lamp. Figure 3: A detailed top view of the lamp’s base. The drawing is labeled with Patent No. 221,198, issued on February 8, 1881.

Context

This drawing illustrates Lewis Latimer’s skill as a draftsman and engineer, which was essential in the development and patenting of electric light technology. The note suggests that Hiram S. Maxim, a prominent inventor and competitor of Thomas Edison, hired Latimer to create these technical illustrations.

Collection

Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Transcription

First drawing made by L.H. Latimer for H.S. Maxim afterwards Supt. U.S. Elec. Lt. Co. J. Maxim Gen. Supt. Bridgeport Conn. 1880 Witnesses: [Illegible signature] [Illegible signature] Inventor: H.S. Maxim No Model No. 221,198 H.S. Maxim Electric Lamp Patented Feb. 8, 1881