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FunctionPart of a linear dividing engine used for constructing high precision scales and marking the gradations for apparatus used in the physical sciences. For a short account of this type of apparatus, go to the following website.
See also this other website describing a circular dividing engine.
Historical AttributesAccording to the display card from Bowdoin College: "When this building was built in 1894, Mr. Searles also provided apparatus for the labs. At that time, much of the apparatus for experiments was made in the Departmental Shop, as our specialized apparatus is today. This engine was also used in the advanced laboratory course. The project was to make a 3 centimeter scale with a vernier. The companion circular dividing engine has been donated to the Smithsonian Institution."
ProvenanceFrom the Department of Physics, Bowdoin College.