Historic 1880 Merlin et Cie Portable Steam Engine

This fine brass jacketed French Portable Steam Engine was acquired by Henry Ford in 1930 for the Edison Institute. The engine was purchased by Ford directly from the Merlin Company, Vierzon (Cher) France. The engine built in 1880 was displayed by the maker at its factory and placed on exhibition annualy at the French Agricultural Fair. The engine retains its factory appointments and incorporates the highest elements of early French industrial design. The engine retains its original patina of polished steel, brass and deep red painted cast iron.  Details include: twin Salter safety valves, twin flywheels each with ornate dog-tail spokes, gear-driven flyball governor, and numerous other fine details. The engine is 11 feet long and 16 feet to the top of the folding chimney.

The engine departed the Ford Museum in trade for American artifacts in the 1970's.  I acquired the engine in May of 1986. The engine has been steamed for exhibition purposes only and exhibits no wear.

This no doubt is one of the finest existing portable steam engines.

Ford Museum / Edison Institute Accession Number:  301686.2

      Ford Museum / Edison Institute Accession Photograph

      Historic Etchings From 1886 Merlin Catalogue

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The photo above :  October 1985 Smithsonian Magazine