Historical information

Scales such as these were used to measure commercial quantities possibly grains and farm produce for quite large amounts of product.Bags of the product would have been hooked up and weighed. Salter has been a name long associated with weights and measures. Salters had their beginnings in England in the 1760's with a background in springs which are a main component of many scales. The actual mechanism for weighing objects in such scales has remained similar for over two centuries.

Significance

These scales would have been a common item in most commercial operations which bought and sold items in bulk and have historical and scientific significance.

Physical description

Cast iron frame with circular brass face painted black.. There is a round metal ring at the top which runs through a circular metal section of the frame. A hook is attached to the bottom of the frame through a similar metal circle. The brass face has graduated markings in 1 lbs increments up to 150 lbs.

Inscriptions & markings

On top section of scale face:Salter's Spring Balance. British Made. On lower section of scales face:To weigh 150 lb. Salter trademark of rope and anchor.