Description
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Item
Title
Heap's topophone.
Date(s)
- Circa 1897 (Creation)
Extent
32 in. long. Funnels are 12" long. Receptor openings are 3 x 3.25"
Scope and content
Invented by Lieutenant Colonel David Porter Heap of the United States Lighthouse Service, the Topophone (from the Greek 'topos' = place and 'phone' = sound) is designed to assist the ear in determining the direction from which a sound originates. Two curved metal funnels in opposition with each other at the end of a long wooden rod. Small openings at the ends of the funnels and 3.5 inch wide openings at the receptor portion of the funnels. The rod can be folded and there is a suspension ring that allows the user to wear the device and one that protrudes when the device is folded to hold in place.
System of arrangement
In box
Conditions governing access
The collection is open and accessible for research.
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
Preferred Citation:
Item description, Reference Code, Bernard Becker Medical Library Archives, Washington University in St. Louis.
Languages of the material
Scripts of the material
Language and script notes
Finding aids
Custodial history
Immediate source of acquisition
1984.001.0073