Telescope

Catalogue number:
AF*33725

Inscriptions:
"Waldstein, Beckel / New York" and "Theodorus Bailey / Captain / U.S. Navy / 1858"

Dimensions:
aperture 2 inches; length 12.25 to 30 inches

Discussion:
This telescope has an achromatic objective, and a three-draw brass body covered with mahogany. It belonged to Theodorus Bailey (1805-1877), a naval officer who was commissioned Captain in 1855, and who helped David Farragut capture New Orleans during the Civil War. Bailey’s niece, Cassie (Mrs. Julian) James, donated it to the Smithsonian in 1912. Waldstein & Beckel were in business together in the early 1850s, selling telescopes and other optical instruments.

Further Information:

Telescope