11.020 - Edison, Science Service Historical Image Collection

1947 - extension ladder was devised which could be run up into position 87 feet above the top of the mast

LOOKOUT EXTENSION

CD 2478032 E&MP11.020

Edison, Thomas A.

9 FEBRUARY 1947

As President of the Naval Consulting Board, Thomas Edison gathered around his technical experts from industry and the various colleges and universities to conduct tests and experiments into the development of special devices for the military conduct of
World War I.

Some of the developments stimulated by Mr. Edison and that gave rise to the amazing technical accomplishments of World War II are pictured here.

LOOKOUT EXTENSION -- To increase the area of observation at sea, this extension ladder was devised which could be run up into position 87 feet above the top of the mast, and which would remain vertical despite the roll of the ship.

This cross section model was built on the suggestion of Mr. Edison.