Thomas Jones of Liverpool | Mid-19th Century Alidade Compass | Walnut-Cased Precision Survey Instrument | Mid 19th Century
Historical Context & Origin
Region: United Kingdom (Liverpool)
Material: Walnut case, silvered degree ring, paper label
Period: Mid-19th Century
Description
A fine example of 19th-century British precision instrumentation, this walnut-cased alidade compass was crafted by Thomas Jones of Liverpool, a respected maker of scientific and surveying instruments. The piece reflects the essential role such tools played in navigation, surveying, and cartography during Britain’s age of industrial and exploratory expansion. The silvered degree ring and original paper label provided clarity in measurement, while the walnut housing protected the instrument during field use.
Features
- Walnut case designed for durability and protection
- Silvered degree ring for precise directional readings
- Original paper label with instrument markings
- Compact portable design for field surveying
- Produced by Thomas Jones of Liverpool, noted instrument maker
Cultural Significance
Known as a turning board, the alidade compass was indispensable to explorers, geographers, and military engineers of the 19th century. It enabled accurate horizontal angle measurements essential for mapmaking and land surveying. Instruments produced by Thomas Jones were respected for their reliability and craftsmanship, contributing to the broader development of scientific exploration and industrial surveying across the British Empire.
Condition
Well-preserved with original silvered ring and paper label intact. Surface wear and patina consistent with age enhance its historical authenticity.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6.1 in
Width: 6.1 in
Age (Approximate)
150–175 years old
Learn More
Study the use of early surveying instruments in the Surveyor’s Compass Collection at the Shaker Museum
Browse our Collection of Maritime and Scientific Relics
Historical Context & Origin
Region: United Kingdom (Liverpool)
Material: Walnut case, silvered degree ring, paper label
Period: Mid-19th Century
Description
A fine example of 19th-century British precision instrumentation, this walnut-cased alidade compass was crafted by Thomas Jones of Liverpool, a respected maker of scientific and surveying instruments. The piece reflects the essential role such tools played in navigation, surveying, and cartography during Britain’s age of industrial and exploratory expansion. The silvered degree ring and original paper label provided clarity in measurement, while the walnut housing protected the instrument during field use.
Features
- Walnut case designed for durability and protection
- Silvered degree ring for precise directional readings
- Original paper label with instrument markings
- Compact portable design for field surveying
- Produced by Thomas Jones of Liverpool, noted instrument maker
Cultural Significance
Known as a turning board, the alidade compass was indispensable to explorers, geographers, and military engineers of the 19th century. It enabled accurate horizontal angle measurements essential for mapmaking and land surveying. Instruments produced by Thomas Jones were respected for their reliability and craftsmanship, contributing to the broader development of scientific exploration and industrial surveying across the British Empire.
Condition
Well-preserved with original silvered ring and paper label intact. Surface wear and patina consistent with age enhance its historical authenticity.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6.1 in
Width: 6.1 in
Age (Approximate)
150–175 years old
Learn More
Study the use of early surveying instruments in the Surveyor’s Compass Collection at the Shaker Museum
Browse our Collection of Maritime and Scientific Relics
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