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I just added a compass to my collection. The dealer told me that some other folks were interested. Maybe it was someone on this forum??ÿ
The face is labeled "Thos. Whitney, Maker, Philidephia". The box has a paper label reading "W. & L.E. Gurley, Troy, N.Y."
With North on the top of the circle, East is on the right and West is on the left, not the reverse as many surveyor's compasses are in order to directly read bearings. The needle is 5 inches long, and it has 2 level vials.
According to research by Robert C. Whitney published at www.compleatesurveyor.comMakersWhitney.htm
it seems that this instrument dates about 1806. Anyone else agree or disagree?
Also, it seems that the same maker supplied compasses to the Lewis and Clark expedition just a few years prior to making this intrument. Cool!
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That is awesome. One of the things on my bucket list before i kick it he bucket is to gather some old antique equipment like this. Great find i am sure.
What sort of base does it have?
Here's a photo of the bottom of the compass. There is a place in the box that looks like it was supposed to hold some additional item, but I didn't get it. It didn't come with a tripod or staff.
The W & L E Gurley name change was 1852. I suspect the box was purchased or salvaged long after the compass was made. I have a verified 1780's equerre with a nearly identical ball and socket. I would need some detailed hi-res pics to be of any help.
Your best bet is to find a contact for Dr. Dick Elgin in Missouri. He is a wealth of knowledge and a pleasure to chat with. If anyone can help it's him..
Or Dale Beeks in Mt Vernon, Iowa
