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Blueprint of Telegraph Pole Wiring System (September 1889)

Drawing
Lewis Latimer drew this blueprint of a telegraph or electrical power pole wiring system, dated September 1889. The technical drawing details the structure of a wooden utility pole with multiple crossbars supporting numerous insulators and wires, systematically arranged to illustrate the electrical wiring configuration. The image showcases an early example of infrastructure used for communication or electrical distribution during the late 19th century. The precision of the drawing suggests it was created for engineering or patent documentation purposes.
Blueprint of Telegraph Pole Wiring System (September 1889) picture number 1
Blueprint of Telegraph Pole Wiring System (September 1889) picture number 2

Lewis Latimer initialed the front of the drawing with his distinctive “L.H.L.” and wrote on the back “Drawn by L. H. Latimer.” He was a pioneering Black inventor and engineer who contributed to the development of electrical lighting and telecommunications. Latimer worked for Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison, playing a role in refining carbon filament lightbulbs and drafting technical patents. During the late 19th century, the expansion of electrical grids and telegraph networks was vital for industrial and commercial progress. Blueprints like this were essential tools for engineers, serving as schematics for constructing efficient and scalable systems.

Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

SEPT. 1889. L. H. L. (Appears to be initials, likely for Lewis H. Latimer)