Mechanical Fly Trap

Datelate 19th - early 20th centuries

Mediumwood, metal, laminate

Dimensions9 1/2 × 9 1/2 × 5 1/4 in. (24.1 × 24.1 × 13.3 cm)

ClassificationsTools, Implements & Weights

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Joan Wilson

Object numberPC1996.40.1

DescriptionWind-up mechanical fly trap situated inside a wooden box. A vertical gearbox is located on the upper left side of the object with a horizontal fly cage guarded by a wire mesh directly underneath. The gearbox is hand cranked, and slowly turns a cylindrical drum coated with sugar or molasses to attract flies and mosquitos. The insects are rotated on the drum until they are scraped off by an internal horizontal wire. A hole is located just underneath the drum which leads to the cage at the bottom. A decorative floral design is visible at the bottom of the object. Wooden components have mild visible corrosion and discoloration and a front panel underneath the rotating drum has fallen out of place. Metal gearbox components appear to be in good condition, if not a bit rusted.

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