Parallel Line Tool

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by Keuffel & Esser Co. (founded 1867)

Dateca. 1920

Mediumbrass, ebony

Dimensionsfolded: 18 × 2 1/2 × 1/2 in. (45.7 × 6.4 × 1.3 cm)

ClassificationsTools, Implements & Weights

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of C. Floyd Johnson

Object numberPC1979.64.5

DescriptionThis tool consists of two rectangular ebony wood bars, dark brown to black in color, polished to a smooth finish. The connecting arms are made of brass with a soft golden hue and display signs of patina, adding character to the piece. The brass has a decorative yet functional design, featuring engraved circular patterns at the joints. The tool is elongated and flat, with the two parallel ebony bars connected by three brass arms. These arms have a gently curved and are attached with brass pivot points that allow the bars to move while maintaining their parallel orientation. One of the ebony bars includes a stamped maker’s mark: “K&E Co. N.Y.” along with the model number “1784” and the company’s winged globe logo accompanied by the phrase "TRADE MARK." The Kneuffel J. Esser Company (K&E), a prominent maker of drafting and mathematical tools, produced this model for technical drafting and architects, engineers, and surveyors from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century would have used this tool. Although primarily associated with engineering and drafting offices, this example reflects one of the nationally used tools crucial in Albuquerque's growing urban and industrial planning efforts during the early 20th century.

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