Very rare early magic lantern, purchased from the Pettibone MFG Military & Society Goods of Cincinnati, Ohio. The magic lantern was used in Fort Howard Maryland as a training tool as well as a way to provide news updates at the military fort, from about 1895 - 1915. This particularly large example was used in a large auditorium, and maintained three historic generations of lighting equipment. The three light sources included show the historical transition from a gas light source to electrical ark light and finally ending with electric lighting. Featuring original rare and early Limelight and oxy hydrogen flame light source. Also included is a carbon ark source with rare unused carbon rods. The final light source is the later electric light and mirror. Cherry wood base with all brass construction of the lens components. Glass optics are all present and working as shown. Stamped 'US' identifying it as Military property. Stored in it's original wood case and accompanied by generations of original lighting sources, equipment and components including tools. Four original glass military training slides included one in color. Size of larger box 30 1/2" W x 20 1/14" H x 12" deep, magic lantern base 26 1/2" W, 24" H.

Box keys absent, well preserved with some flaws commensurate with age