Stimpson Computing Scale, Louisville  Fan dial

This fan-dial scale is, according to a sales brochure, Model No. 30, "Grocer―General Store" with a 30-pound (13.6 kg) capacity. The shape is unique, with the goods plate and mechanism set at an angle to the fan dial. This design has been seen only on Stimpson Computing Scale Co. fan-dial price computing scales made in Louisville, Kentucky. The fan dial is operated by a pendulum mechanism.

Stimpson built two other models with this angled design―No. 5: 5-pound “Confectionary” and No. 10: 10-pound “Delicatessen.”

For a production date, it was most likely made between 1919 and 1924. Stimpson opened the Louisville location in 1919, and the older of the two patents listed on the scale is 1907 (1907 plus 17 years of patent protection take it to 1924). Stimpson opened a new Louisville plant in 1928 that produced white porcelain-finished scales; so, this example’s gold paint was most certainly at the original site.

References:
See Exhibits > Price Computing Scales
For more information about company history, go to Maker Histories > Stimpson Scale Companies

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