Camera [No.1 Brownie Model B]
Maker and role
Kodak Limited, Manufacturer
Production date
1900-1916
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Object detail
Accession number
1965.410
Maker
Description
Camera - No.1 Brownie Model B. US Patents April 11, 1899, Nov. 27, 1900, April 14, 1903. Sighting attachment protruding above box, film winder on same side. The No.1 is a very simple camera with sight lines on the top surface to assist with framing the image. Unlike most box cameras, this model was used at eye level. The lens is mounted behind a 'flip-flop' shutter. The camera takes 117 film giving negatives 6 x 6 cm.
Brief History
The original model Brownie was introduced by Eastman Kodak in 1900 and was developed as an inexpensive camera for the amateur photographer, children included. It sold for $1 and was simple to use. The camera was essentially a cardboard box with a simple meniscus lens, and it took Kodak roll film.
The camera was invented by Frank A. Brownell, and named by George Eastman after the brownies, fairy or goblin-like creatures from folklore, popularised in Canadian author Palmer Cox’s books and comic strips, ‘The Brownies.’
Numerous models were produced over the decades Brownies were available on the market.
The camera was invented by Frank A. Brownell, and named by George Eastman after the brownies, fairy or goblin-like creatures from folklore, popularised in Canadian author Palmer Cox’s books and comic strips, ‘The Brownies.’
Numerous models were produced over the decades Brownies were available on the market.
Media/Materials
Credit Line
Kodak Limited. 1900-1916. Camera [No.1 Brownie Model B], 1965.410. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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