Collecting Tech: Appreciating and Collecting Historical Technology

Invention, Engineering and Science - all of these come together in this fascinating look at historic times. In this book we take a look backwards with pleasure and pride in the evidence of our technological accomplishments. The objects in this book date from 19th- and early 20th-century technologies. Objects from earlier periods are rarely available outside expensive antique stores and major auctions. The kinds of objects in this collection are bought at fl ea markets, antique malls, garage sales and local auctions representing reasonable goals for any current collector of tech. If you are curious about technology and the objects that reveal its history and artistry, you should enjoy the following collection and commentary. Each chapter includes a chronology of significant developments in the specific technological area along with a related timeline for the objects described to help provide historical context. Ending each chapter is a technological update to help you understand why objects described have become obsolete. The book concludes with a discussion on various aspects of collecting historical technology with an emphasis on the social and historical context of these intriguing technologies. Explore these specific areas of technology: Domestic Steam Nautical Electrical Engineering Surveying Scientific Tool Occupational

You had to wipe the dust off the cases to see what was inside. That s the way it was at the Smithsonian Institute when I was a kid. I spent Saturdays there in the 1930s. My love of antique technology has persisted ever since. My collecting began on Maxwell Street in Chicago, then at tractor shows and rust markets in the Midwest and at European flea markets, when I had the chance. For fifty years, studying and collecting historical technology has been fascinating and joyful. I intend this book to share my happy experience with those who have curiosity and appreciation for these wonderful, old objects. Peter F. Stone February 2011