Microscope Museum

Collection of antique microscopes and other scientific instruments

Microscope 542 (unassigned maker; Universal household microscope; c. 1890)

Microscope 542 is a simple compound microscope dated to c. 1890, known as the ‘universal household microscope’. The words ‘UNIVERSAL’, ‘HOUSEHOLD’, and ‘MICROSCOPE’ are engraved on the iron base. The maker is unknown, but the instrument seems identical to universal household microscope models retailed by J. Queen (Figure 1). The instrument has a rack and pinion focusing. The history of the household microscope dates back to an idea of Thomas H. McAllister in the 1860's. This tradition led to many variations being produced in large numbers right through the beginning of the twentieth century. These simple microscopes were sold to hobbyists and were likely manufactured in France.

Figure 1. Two versions of the universal household microscope as engraved in the 1880 J. Queen’s catalogue.