An example of the second and third slide rules designed and made entirely in America.
The instrument is printed on glazed paper from an engraved steel plate and mounted on
pasteboard, bound with tartan patterned passepartout. Both the stock and volvelle have a true,
single-radius logarithmic line marked with numerous gauge points. It is engraved PALMER’S
COMPUTING SCALE Improved by Fuller. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the
year 1843, by Aaron Palmer, in the Clerks Office of the District Court of the State of
Massachusetts. and by J.E.Fuller 1847. Engraved by George G. Smith 186 Washington
St Boston
Aaron Palmer must have developed his circular slide rule by 1841, as his descriptions published
in 1844 and 1845 have testimonials dated January 19, 1842. As can be seen above, he
copyrighted his design in 1843.
On the reverse is a similarly sized elapsed
time slide rule with both stock and volvelle
graduated with each day of the year, with
which the number of days between dates
can be determined. At the time of its
manufacture, many workers were paid on
a daily basis, particularly seamen, and
Boston, where the plate was engraved,
was a major seaport.
It is engraved FULLER’S TIME
TELEGRAPH Entered According to
Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by
John E. Fuller, in the Clerks Office, of
the District Court of the State of
Massachusetts.
