Early Toaster from Detroit

According to the book by Charles P. Fisher Early American Electric Toasters, in March, 1905, George Schneider invents a practical if complicated, enclosed toaster specifying “suitable resistance wire”, probably referring to the alloy invented by Albert Marsh. The patent is assigned to American Electrical Heater Co. of Detroit. I’ve owned a very early model which is very scary looking.

This one is a later model which has loop door handles and enameled wood feet. It has a snake-laced coiled heating element.

The base bears the company’s signature triangle badge. While there is no damage overall, the nickel plating is pitted and steel parts are showing rust. Cord not included.