Officer’s Spyglass

A decorative and classic exploration and navigational tool, this telescope has a wooden barrel and holds a system of lenses. The collars and decorative cap are made of brass. To use, pull out the brass drawers. The small end-tube focuses the image. This vintage look telescope makes an interesting conversation piece.

Among the many maritime records kept by the National Archives are fascinating historical documents announcing the appointments of customs officials; correspondence; records from customs districts; documents from lighthouses and the weather bureau; and shipwreck reports.