2006.38.1

Cranmer Abacus

Cranmer, Terrence V., 1925-2001

Black polystyrene plastic abacus frame; red felt lining, white plastic beads, thirteen steel metal rods; divider bar separates 1 bead above from four beads below; raised unit markers on the divider bar and at the bottom of the frame; "A.P.H." appears at the top of the frame in raised letters.

H-3.25 W-6.125 D-0.563 inches

ca. 1994

American Printing House for the Blind

Louisville, KY

APH Collection

Abacus was obtained from APH by the Museum for hands-on use in a museum math exhibit. The Cranmer Abacus was developed by Terrence V. Cranmer and was first produced by APH in 1963. With modifications made by Cranmer of using spherical beads as counters, allowing for adequate bead travel, and a felt backing to hold the counters in position, blind users could attain calculating skills superior to other math aids.

APH Collection, 2006.38