Electric Shock Box, Used by Milton Wright, 1897-1917

Summary

Milton Wright owned this electric shock machine. One person turned the small hand-cranked electric generator, while another person -- perhaps unsuspectingly -- took hold of the metal handles. The current passed through the second person's body and caused a mild, though definitely noticeable, electric shock. Some people thought these machines offered health benefits. Others simply enjoyed their novelty.

Milton Wright owned this electric shock machine. One person turned the small hand-cranked electric generator, while another person -- perhaps unsuspectingly -- took hold of the metal handles. The current passed through the second person's body and caused a mild, though definitely noticeable, electric shock. Some people thought these machines offered health benefits. Others simply enjoyed their novelty.

Artifact

Generator

Date Made

1897-1917

Creators

Unknown

Greenfield Village
 On Exhibit

at Greenfield Village in Wright Home

Object ID

90.353.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Harold and Ivonette Wright Miller.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant material)

Color

Orange (Color)
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 2.75 in

Diameter: 4.75 in  (base)

Length: 31 in  (cords with their handles)

Inscriptions

on side: PAT. APR. 27 '97

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