GEORGE PATTON (ABT. 1822-1857), WASHINGTON, DC, BRASS COMPASS / SURVEYOR'S VERNIER, dial engraved "George Patten / Washn City.", level to one arm, two uprights and connectors, and fixed mount in the original dovetailed walnut fitted case. Original tripod with pointed metal tips to each leg. Excellent original finish to all elements. Mid 19th century. Dial 6" D, case 7 1/4" x 15 1/4".
Very good original condition, lacking lock-down screw, pointer drags, box with warping to front edge of top, expected wear to finishes.
Provenance: From a Virginia collection.
Catalogue Note: George Patten was the son of noted New York, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, instrument maker Richard Patten (1792-1865); he likely learned the trade from his father. The senior Patten furnished compasses for the Army Topographical Engineers that were used in the early exploration of the American west and supplied equipment utilized in the U. S. Coast Survey. The family moved to Washington around 1842 at which time the 20-year-old George became a partner in Richard Patten & Son. The 1850 census records the family in Baltimore where both Richard and George were listed as "Instrument maker." George returned to Washington to be married in 1853. It is likely he opened his own shop at this time and made this compass. We could find no other examples of an instrument signed by George Patten.

Very good original condition, lacking lock-down screw, pointer drags, box with warping to front edge of top, expected wear to finishes.