Summary

This ivory slide rule was excavated during one of digs conducted at the Commonwealth Block site between 1988 and 2003.

Working in Little Lon.
Alongside the tightly packed cottages, commercial enterprise thrived in little Lon. Shops sold food and 'fancy goods'. Factories and workshops manufactured bellows, furniture, waterproof clothing and ice cream.

In the 1880s grocers flourished, and in the 1890s clothing firms and Chinese cabinet-makers dominated the local manufacturing scene. But Little Lon's most numerous businesses were the myriad hotels and brothels.

It is easy to overlook the 'invisible' work carried out in people's homes. Because such work was rarely documented we rely on things left behind to tell the story. The abundance of lace bobbins dug up at Little Lon hints at a lace-making industry and busy lives otherwise hidden from history.

Physical Description

This is an ivory slide rule which has a narrow recessed strip in the centre on one side for a slide and measurements in inches on the raised section on either edge. On the other side there are figures engraved on the surface. It is in good condition, the engraved figures are still clearly visible.

Physical Description

Ivory slide rule. One side: narrow recessed strip in centre for slide, measurements in inches on raised section, either edge. Opposite side: figures (for distance calculations?) engraved on surface. Well-preserved - figures clearly visible. Found in sub-floor surface, 13 Casselden Place.

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