Original U.S. WWII Navy Ship’s Engine Order Telegraph “Chadburn” by Henschel Corporation - Dated June 1943

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. This is a very interesting piece of nautical history. This iconic Navy ship’s engine order telegraph, a communications device used on a ship (or submarine) for the pilot on the bridge to order engineers in the engine room to power the vessel at a certain desired speed. These were often referred to as a “Chadburn”, and make a very iconic ticking noise when the levers are adjusted. Most people recognize these from their use in Titanic (1997).

This example is painted green, but this is not its original paint job. Other modifications may have been made, but we can not say for certain as this is the first engine order telegraph we have had. It measures roughly 17 x 18 x 51” and weighs roughly 360 pounds.

This example still retains its original data plate, marked with the U.S. Navy Inspection Anchor stamp, reading:

HENSCHEL
HENSCHEL CORPORATION
AMESBURY, MASS.
VOLTS 115AC AMPS CYCLES 60
DR. NO. 10-1102 ALT. TYPE
CONTRACT    DATE 6-14-43

This denotes the date of manufacture as June 14th, 1943. 

The telegraph has a great many bells & whistles, none of which are functional, but still add to the full experience. There is a lovely ornate brass plaque between the two levers, and the very top has two small dials that can be turned or pushed in, the function of which we are unsure of. When moving either of the two levers at the top, that iconic & satisfying sound is still made, though it no longer sends orders to the engine room. 

Below this is a brass panel with three small dials that when turned increase the numbers in the small boxes. The dial on the right is a bit difficult to turn but the other two turn fine. Below this area is a small area with two bells which would ring when an order is sent or fulfilled. 

This example would likely benefit from a repaint, but we will leave that up to the buyer. A great piece of equipment for any nautical collection, with a great WWII date! Comes ready for further research and display.