Scott,
I believe we are talking of two different instruments. The one that I had in my care was an old magnetic compass with sighting vanes and no telescope, while the photo you posted shows an open transit, with a telescope. The compass was donated to the Minnesota Society of Professional Surveyors in 1999 by a former Hennepin County Surveyor, Elmer Peterson. He told me that it had belonged to Jim Simonet. I didn't think to ask him any further questions.
Kent has learned that your grandfather was licensed in 1933. At that time it's unlikely he would have used the compass in his daily work. He would probably have used the instrument shown in your photo. He might have acquired the compass from an older surveyor as a collectible or keepsake. The transit shown in your photo might well be at the Minnesota Historical Society as you heard from your mother.
John
Not a lot of color photos from that timeframe. One of his passions was photography. My guess is he was just having fun with his new camera or color film and was posing with one of his favorite toys. Just like any other good surveyor would.
Thank you for all your help in helping me solve this personal mystery.
Scott
Yes, that is a transit with the external focus, which makes the actual scope appear to be lopsided