Original 1932 Patent certificate #1891739 - Automatic Railroad Crossing Signals

Description

This is an
original
Patent certificate dated December 20, 1932 issued for "Automatic Railroad Crossing Signals".
Dimensions are 8" x 12".
The accompanying diagram is an image pulled from a pdf of the multi-page patent document.
The patent document, with that diagram and a full description can be accessed via a search engine by entering the patent number.
The first three paragraphs of that patent document highlight the significance of this invention:
- - -
Patented Dec. 20, 1932
1,891,739
UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE
SAMUEL WENGER, OF NEW YORK, N.Y.
AUTOMATIC RAILROAD CROSSING SIGNAL
Application filed December 18, 1931. Serial No. 581,833.
This invention relates to new and useful
improvements in an automatic railway gate.
The invention has for an object the con-
struction of an automatic railway gate which
is characterized by the ability of automati-
cally closing the crossroad upon the approach
of a train and automatically moving to the
open position after the train has passed.
Particularly, it is proposed to arrange the
gate in its extended position resiliently so
that anyone caught upon the tracks may
get out.
A still further object of this invention is
the construction of a device of the class de-
scribed which is of simple, durable construc-
tion, dependable in use and efficient in opera-
tion and which can be manufactured and sold
at a reasonable cost."
- - -
The full text of the inventor's description makes interesting reading, and this certificate, #1891739, granted the patent for that invention.
Prior to the rotating crossing gates, drivers were met by the inert crossbuck sign reading "Railroad" and "Crossing" in the shape of an "X". Then came the swinging Wigwam with its bells and red flashing light.
For collectors of railroad memorabilia, this historical treasure is a direct link to the more modern rotating railway gates that we've all come to know and love (except when we're in a hurry).
This is truly a unique, one-of-a-kind document that has a prominent place in railroad history.
The condition is very good, with only two small nicks and a 1/4" tear at the fold along on the right edge.
Suitable for framing.
Packed with care and shipped via USPS Priority Mail Padded Flat Rate Envelope, with tracking.
From a non-smoking, pet-free home.