Compass, Surveyor

Object/Artifact

-

Waseca County History Center

Name/Title

Compass, Surveyor

Entry/Object ID

63.08.2a

Description

Surveyor's Vernier Compass. Material: glass, metal. Size: 5 3/4" diameter. Description: polished lacquered brass circular housing - a clear crystal over the silvered compass face - etched script in face: "W. & L. E. Gurley, Troy, NY", compass points: north star, E, W, S; 4 1/2" L. bar needle on central pivot, adjustable rotation, crossed bubble levels - calibrated readout along outer raised edge - reverse side: mount receptable with thumb screw - two threaded brass sight vanes attached on opposite sides fold over compass face.

Context

Thought to be used in early Waseca County surveying of township sections and borders as stated by former County Auditor, Roy Nelson. This vernier compass was manufactured in the mid 19th century. The first surveyor of Waseca County was H.W. Peck appointed March 16, 1857. He served for one year and then moved to Ohio. Eugene A. Smith of Wilton succeeded Peck and worked from 1858-1862.

Cataloged By

Legacy Photo Import

Lexicon

Legacy Lexicon

Object Name

Compass, Surveyor

Class

Surveying & Navig. T & E

Category

Tools & Eq for Sci & Tech

Condition

Overall Condition

Fair

Exhibitions

Notes

Timeline

Create Date

December 4, 2008

Update Date

November 21, 2024