Jerry's Western Electric Telegraph Key & Sounder

The telegraph was the only long distance instant communication device until radio and other means came along. Railroads were always the largest users of the telegraph and utilized them for more than a century. The railroads would have had a very hard time operating safely and efficiently without them.

The full size plans will allow you to make an exact replica of the key and sounder. The photo above is the "real thing" antique originals. The originals were made in a time when quality was of prime importance and aesthetics ran a close second! These instruments were made of brass and steel, as were all manner of other types of instruments. You will want to make yours of these materials as well.

You can make an operating set, or as non-operating shelf models. Either way, you can make them full size or reduce the size for really neat items to put in your curio cabinet or as a unique desk ornament set.

Jerry's "Millers Falls" Miterbox Saw

This is a 1/6th scale model of a "Millers Falls" miterbox saw that was made in the 1950's. It was a beautifully designed and built tool. The saw frame was cast iron and other parts were machined from solid steel bar stock. Most of the hardware items were nickel plated. Tools with that kind of quality are not made anymore and never will be again.

The model saw frame is milled from solid brass. The saw blade is brass sheet and the rest of the saw is machined from miscellaneous brass bar stock. The saw handle and the material deck is walnut for a nice contrast to the brass.

This model almost looks like jewelry and will look great on your desk, the fireplace mantle or in your curio cabinet. I made this saw as a gift for a friend (George W. Neff) in 1977. How about you making one for that really special carpenter relative or friend of yours?

(Sorry, the pictures were duplicated from old slides from 1977 that are not very good.)

Specifications: Overall Width: 3-3/8", Blade Length: 4-1/8", Overall Height: 1-15/16"

Jerry's Original "Plunket Jr"

"Plunket Jr. is about a 1/2 scale model of the 1/2 H.P. Plunket Jr. engine manufactured by the J.E. Plunket Company of Chicago, Illinois around 1909. It was used to power washing machines, sewing machines and other household chores. It is shown on page 395 of 'American Gasoline Engines Since 1872' by C.H. Wendel." - Jerry Howell