A Mouse in our Adding Machine!

A Mouse in our Adding Machine!

Moving the device uncovered a mouse living inside.

8/23/2022 | Mark Hanson, Curator

We recently moved our Burroughs Class 1, Model 3, adding machine from off sight storage to our new collections storage facility. Unfortunately, a mouse had taken up residence inside and died. The situation required immediate cleanup!

This machine, built between 1904 and 1906, is heavy and built to last. Our first task was getting the thick glass cover off. Next, Rob removed our deceased friend and its nest, and thoroughly cleaned the machine inside and out. We also photographed the machine’s interior.

Despite the tragic demise of the mouse, this was a fascinating opportunity to see the Burroughs' beautiful interior mechanisms. Imagine! This machine did math mechanically, with no computer or even electricity!