This scrapbook contains material dealing primarily with telegraphy. Most of the documents date from the period between 1870 and 1875, although there are some items from the 1850s concerning electric batteries, electromagnetism as a motive force, and Henry M. Paine's electric light. Much of the later material relates to Edison's development of automatic and printing telegraph systems. Included are sample tapes and discs, printed copy, circulars, clippings, and a diagram from 1875 of connections for the "Automatic Table." There are also notes by Charles Batchelor on printing and duplex telegraphy and on electrostatic capacity; correspondence concerning the procurement of tellurium; journal orders; and a few drawings. There is one bill from a London manufacturer of mathematical and philosophical instruments for apparatus purchased by Edison in June 1873. The remainder of the volume consists of clippings and circulars on various telegraph and electrical equipment, including Edison's inductorium (an electromedical device for administering electric shocks); clippings about Western Union's domination of the American telegraph industry; and catalogues from chemical and electrical suppliers. The book contains 138 numbered pages.
Blank pages: 55-56. Courtesy of Thomas Edison National Historical Park.