Although this
particular microscope is unsigned, a nearly
identical microscope having a different stage design is known that is signed L.
Schrauer, New York. Additionally, note the
following extract from the 1882 American
Monthly Microscopical Journal, pg.
158.
To THE EDITOR
: I think I am doing a service to users of the
microscope, especially to those who intend to
carry microscopes with them on their journeyings
this summer, by bringing to their notice a new
stand made by Schrauer of this city, which "
packs well." It has a base similar to that on the
instrument which was known as the working model
of George Wale, except that the base is made of
solid brass, instead iron. Moreover, there are no
parts of sheet-brass. By unscrewing the binding
screw, this base can be removed, and, together
with the rest of the stand, also taken apart, and
laid between other goods in one trunk, thus
taking up far less space and travelling more
securely than the ordinary stand which tumbles
about in a huge square case occupying almost half
of the trunk. It is also an excellent stand to
take to Microscopical Society meetings for it may
be put into a small hand-bag, which can be
carried much more easily and comfortably than the
square box usually carried. In addition to its
good qualities as a traveller, the specimen of
this stand which I have possesses other
excellencies. It is heavy, firm, with a low,
solid stage, a tripod foot, a short tube capable
of elongation, adjustments of extreme accuracy
and smoothness, the coarse by rack and pinion,
the fine by a long sensitive lever, and it cost
only twenty five dollars.
W. H.
M.
This microscope is
based on the design of the "The
New Working Microscope" first
introduced by George Wale.
Leopold Schrauer first began the
manufacture of microscopes in Boston. By 1877, he was
located in New York City at various addresses. Schrauer
microscopes are relatively uncommon. In the book
entitled A Short History of the Early American
Microscopes by D. Pagitt, it is stated "It is
somewhat strange that Schrauer's microscopes are not
more common today, since he was apparently in business
for more than 20 years. This may be partially explained
by Schrauer's proclamation that he gave no discount to
the trade which would indicate that he did not have
access to the traditional marketing
agencies".