Object Details
- Description
- Cam lever or clamp for sealing a tinware fruit or preserve can. Cast with "GILMORE" on the cam or tab and "PAT'D MAY 11 1858" across the arms or crosspiece. Used with can DL*251349.0010.
- Edwin W. Gilmore of North Easton, MA, received his patent for a tinware preserve can on May 11, 1858 (U.S. Patent No. 20,203), six months before John L. Mason patented his glass jar with screw-on metal cover that today bears his name. Gilmore's sealing mechanism consists of a cam lever secured over the cover by placing its ends through the two stirrups or loops along the rim. Pushing or turning the cam down forces the cover onto its rubber ring to produce an air-tight seal.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- date made
- ca 1858
- patent date
- 1858-05-11
- Physical Description
- iron (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 1/2 in x 4 7/8 in x 1 1/4 in; 1.27 cm x 12.3825 cm x 3.175 cm
- Object Name
- sealer, preserve can
