sledge microtome
Date: circa 1879
Inventory Number: 1900
Classification: Microtome
Subject:
Maker: Samuel W. Fletcher (died 1919)
Collector: Ernst-Lewis Collection of Microscopes
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
21 × 21.6 × 40.4 cm (8 1/4 × 8 1/2 × 15 7/8 in.)
Description:
This is a sledge microtome. The main frame is made of mahogany and stands on four short legs. It is equipped with a brass tray, a specimen holder, and a drive screw operated by a hand wheel. The knife is located on a v-shaped, cast iron and blackened holder. The holder has a bronze knife block. The holder's legs are tipped with ivory feet. The sides and base of the microtome where these legs would touch in operation are covered in glass.
Signedstamped on knife: New York U. S. A. / CURLEY'S IDEAL SAFETY RAZOR
FunctionDesigned for making sections of animal tissue in alcohol.
Historical AttributesThis microtome was designed and made by Dr. Samuel W. Fletcher (d. 1919), a graduate of Harvard Medical School, 1858, and an Assistant Surgeon of the 32nd Massachusetts Volunteers, 1863-1865.
This microtome is described in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal 100 (1879): 254-257.
This microtome is described in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal 100 (1879): 254-257.
Primary SourcesThis microtome is described in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal 100 (1879): 254-257.
ProvenanceDr. Samuel W. Fletcher, Pepperell, MA, 1879; Ernst-Lewis Collection of Microscopes, Harvard Medical School