![](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/58/17/large_thumbnail_1974_0213__0002_.jpg)
![Henley's magneto electric double needle telegraph](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/50/455/small_thumbnail_1876_1285__0004_.jpg)
![Henley's magneto electric double needle telegraph](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/50/454/small_thumbnail_1876_1285__0003_.jpg)
![Henley's magneto electric double needle telegraph](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/50/453/small_thumbnail_1876_1285__0002_.jpg)
![Henley's magneto electric double needle telegraph](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/50/452/small_thumbnail_1876_1285__0001_.jpg)
Henley's magneto electric double needle telegraph, made by the Magnetic Telegraph Company, England, 1848-1852.
This telegraph system, which did not require a battery for operation, was patented in 1848 by W T Henley and T Forster. Instead of a battery, the instrument was powered by magnets and electro-magnetic currents, using pedal keys. The needles for indicating letters could only move in one direction, but the code was the same modified Morse code used by other telegraph systems.
Details
- Category:
- Telecommunications
- Object Number:
- 1876-1285
- Materials:
- mahogany (wood), steel (metal), copper (alloy), ivory and textile
- Measurements:
-
overall: 410 mm x 550 mm x 420 mm, 21 kg
- type:
- telegraph
- credit:
- Donated by HM Postmaster General