Straw Cutter. (open access)

Straw Cutter.

Patent for a new and improved straw cutter. This design "relates to certain improvements in straw-cutters; and it consists in the [novel] construction and arrangement of parts" (lines 13-15). The novel construction and arrangement of parts means that "[t]he machine is simple, durable, and inexpensive in construction, will not readily get out of repair, and will perform the necessary work in an efficient manner" (lines 1-4).
Date: May 10, 1881
Creator: Cornish, John A.
System: The Portal to Texas History
Curtain Fixture. (open access)

Curtain Fixture.

Patent for a new and improved curtain fixture. This design calls for a rubber roller in which a curtain can withdraw and from which a curtain can emerge. The roller has holes for screwing and mounting.
Date: May 24, 1881
Creator: Nix, Manning L. & McClelland, Stephen
System: The Portal to Texas History