Resource Type

Weighing-Scale. (open access)

Weighing-Scale.

Patent for a weighing-scale that is "of simple and improved construction which will instantly determine and indicate the weight of the article placed thereon" (lines 13-16). The scale uses revolving disks that have a chain around them which moves a lever to indicate the weight of the object being weighed. The object being weighed sits on a pan that is suspended by the same chains that hold the revolving disks in place.
Date: December 15, 1896
Creator: Stephens, John H.
System: The Portal to Texas History
Field Thrashing-Machine. (open access)

Field Thrashing-Machine.

Patent for a field thrashing-machine that can be carried into a field and harvests the tops of standing grain as it is carried forward. The machine also thrashes the grain, separates the grain from the chaff, and delivers the grain in a receptacle.
Date: December 18, 1894
Creator: Anderson, Axel
System: The Portal to Texas History
Pile-Supporter (open access)

Pile-Supporter

Patent for new and useful improvements in Pile-Supporters, specifically for use for protruding piles. "The device is designed to retain the ruptured portions within the anus, thereby relieving pain." Improvements allow extended wear and freedom of movement not allowed in previous supporters.
Date: December 4, 1917
Creator: Raines, John L.
System: The Portal to Texas History