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early 20th century single-sided solid copper "basement" open switchboard beveled edge switch identification plaque with lightly incised lettering

early 20th century single-sided solid copper "basement" open switchboard beveled edge switch identification plaque with lightly incised lettering

SKU: UR-19484-14
original c. 1908 american antique industrial diminutive beveled edge solid copper open switchboard flush mount double-throw knife switch identification "basement" plaque likely fabricated by or for the electric box & switchboard co., inc., chicago, il. the single-sided bevel edge plaque was originally soldered against a massive black slate upright panel containing multiple knife switches, volt and watthour meters and so on. each plaque corresponded to the management or control of an electrical system (directing electricity from one source to another) used within the building. mishandling or carelessness around the old open switchboards would often lead to electrocution (i.e., death). modern day switchboards are now enclosed in metal - known as "dead front" construction - where energized parts are accessible when the covers and panels are closed. the plaque's lightly incised lettering contains a blacked enameled inlay for better visibility of the wording. two points of residual solder are found on the backside of the plaque. there are several plaques available. the commercial building from which the plaques were removed from was demolished several years ago. a limited number of knife switches and watthour meters from the metering or control compartment panel were recovered as well. measures approximately 3 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches.

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