I would like to know the value of this plate. It was passed down from family and I was told it came from the Playboy club in the 60's. It is tarnished but I do not want to damage it by cleaning it.
Gamewell Fire and Telegraph Co. fire alarm box. These boxes were wall or pole mounted on street corners. In case of fire one would break a glass that house a key that would open the door. Inside the master box, an alarm box sat inside. This smaller box housed the lever that one would pull down to initiate a telegraph signeal alerting the closest fire dept. Inside the alarm box are various telegraph components and a round housing that is full of various gears that would turn once the lever was pulled down. It looks very similar to a round alarm clock.
I found this painting at a Antique store, which was going out of business. The owner at the time said he had no ideal who made it either and what year, but he do know that it was old. He purchased it from another antique dealer. So it appears to be handed down. Nevertheless, the picture is beautiful and has excellent colors, although its antique. kept in great shape. I gather my information, that if Poe. The painting was done by Samuel Osgood for catching his wife fannie mae & Edgar A. Poe together , he decided to sign his painting F.S. Poes. Then again, if its F.S. Pao, which is an Asian name and I could not find much on the artist, but he does paint excellent work except it was done early 1900's. It also could be last name of Poo, I really can't make it out. This is where I need your help in assisting trying to find the info. Please see the painting and signature.
