Object Details
- Description
- Hamilton S. McRae from Muncie, Indiana, received a U.S. patent for an improved school desk. Patent no. 72662 was issued on December 24, 1867.
- This desk has a convenient and easily operated book holder. The innovative book holder sits within the desktop with a lid on top. The lid could be lifted up to allow access to the book. There is a curved seat for support and comfort. The backrest is a flat front face with three vertical slats of wood. The back legs on the desk flare out.
- Hamilton S. McRae was born on January 2, 1833 in Indiana. He served as a teacher, principal, and superintendent of schools. An advocate of educational reform, McRae espoused free kindergarten and free public libraries.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- patentee
- McRae, Hamilton S.
- transfer
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
- inventor
- McRae, Hamilton S.
- date made
- 1867
- patent date
- 1867-12-24
- associated date
- 1870
- Physical Description
- wood (overall material)
- metal (overall material)
- iron (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 5 3/4 in x 5 3/4 in x 3 3/4 in; 14.605 cm x 14.605 cm x 9.525 cm
- Object Name
- school desk
- model
- desk model
- Object Type
- Patent Model
