These items were found in the basement of an old Eastern Ontario house, jammed into a ceiling beam near an old fireplace. Despite their differences they both have a pivoting spike and look like they might have a similar use. I have a sense they may be some sort of old window hardware, though I can't imagine how they would be used. Thoughts?
I'm pretty sure they are from an old pre-electric bell system. Imagine the spike fixed in the wall and a wire attached to each end of the arc. It would then allow a pull to turn a corner.
ReplyDeleteI love the call-bell idea. I weas thinking parts from an old cable-operated chimney plug mechanism, even more so if the particular chimney has been sealed?
ReplyDeleteA bell crank of some kind. The spike allows for relocation.
ReplyDeleteAnd here they are, on page 170:
ReplyDeletehttps://tigerprints.clemson.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2660&context=all_theses
I believe the "spike" is intended to go into a mortar joint.
Thanks guys; I learned something today.
Once again, gotta hand it to ya, Dave! Different types of pre-electricity devices... Wireless door bells, wireless ceiling fans...
ReplyDeleteThank you all! Especially to Dave. The homeowner will be delighted. I plan to send the link to a writer of historical fiction I know and will definitely bookmark the link for future use.
ReplyDeleteWOW! So thankful for this conclusion! Now I know why there are holes in each room & each floor. Must be older house construction otherwise system would be hidden in the walls! 1700's to 1830...only used in aristocratic homes!
ReplyDelete