Lubricating Device. (open access)

Lubricating Device.

Patent for a new and improved lubricating device. This design consists of "[t]he combination, with the cross-head of an engine or other reciprocating part of machinery, and the guides or ways on which it works, of a reservoir for the lubricant, a wheel for taking up and applying the same to the friction-surface with which the wheel works in contact, and a spring for supporting the wheel" (para. 10). This design prevents dust and other pollutants from entering the reservoir.
Date: January 22, 1878
Creator: Walton, Franklin B.
System: The Portal to Texas History
Saw-Gin (open access)

Saw-Gin

Patent for a saw-gin which when constructed can run all of its parts with a single belt, which reduces the need for space allowing for more gins to be used in the same amount of space.
Date: January 22, 1889
Creator: Munger, Robert S.
System: The Portal to Texas History
Railroad Cattle-guard. (open access)

Railroad Cattle-guard.

Patent for an improved cattle-guard to keep livestock from crossing onto a railroad track or into railway property. This protects livestock and decreases railroad liability for loos of property. The invention includes a pivotal gate which runs parallel to the track that will go across the track to block animals if they try to cross the opening.
Date: January 22, 1918
Creator: Gidcumb, John T.
System: The Portal to Texas History