About ASMS

Historical Instruments Replica

In 2002 a replica of historical instruments was commissioned by ASMS. The replica has made subsequent appearances at the 2003, 2004, and 2013 ASMS annual conferences. Now it is primarily used as a travelling display hosted by various ASMS members and their institutions. Read Ray March's article on the Historical Instruments Project Genesis.

Display at Los Alamos National Laboratory, courtesy of Trevor Glaros.
Photo of members of B-Tek standing with Aston Mass Specrtograh

We are seeking future hosts (Summer 2026 and beyond) of the Historical Instruments Replica, see details at the bottom of this page.

ASMS Members have hosted the display at these locations:

  • Upcoming host: Clemson University (host Chris Chouinard), July 2025 - June 2026
  • Upcoming host: Purdue University (hosts Cooks, Kenttammaa, Laskin, & McLuckey labs), July 2024 - June 2025
  • Current host: Los Alamos National Laboratory (host Trevor Glaros, July 2023 - June 2024)
  • University of Florida (host Boone Prentice), July 2022 - June 2023
  • College of Charleston (host Jay Forsythe), 2020-2021
  • University of Texas, Austin (host Livia Eberlin), 2019-2020
  • University of Illinois at Chicago (hosts Stephanie Cologna and Laura Sanchez), 2017-2018
  • North Carolina State University (host David Muddiman), 2015-2017
  • Central Oregon Community College, 2014
  • California Institute of Technology, 2013
  • Washington University at St. Louis, 2011
  • University of Indiana, 2011
  • Purdue University, 2010
  • Chemical Heritage Foundation, 2009
  • University of Delaware, 2009
  • Boston University, 2007
  • American Museum of Science & Energy, 2006
  • University of the Pacific, 2005
  • Vanderbilt University, 2004

Replica Instruments include discharge tube (used by Thomson in his discovery of the electron), Aston's mass spectrograph, and Chadwick's neutron chamber.

Replica of Mass Spectrograh, discharge tube and neutron chamber

The following three posters travel with the replica display:

How to Become a Host of the Historical Instruments Replica

Interested hosts should read through the FAQs below and send email request to info@asms.org and/or to Jane Gale, ASMS Archivist/Historian at jane.pjgale@gmail.com. Request should include the host's name and affiliation. We anticipate the replica will be ready for a new home in mid-2024. Our goal is to develop a list of interested hosts so we can keep the replica travelling --and educating!

How large is the display? How much space do I need?

Overall footprint is approximately 12' long x 7' wide. This should accommodate the instrument display plus three posters.

What's included?

Everything described packs into a single crate (approx. 5'x4'x3', 200 lb). Display case with Lucite top, three historical instruments, folding table and skirt to support display case, and three informational posters. Check out the replica packing guide to see it all.

What does host provide?

Poster boards or easels (3) to support the included informational posters.

How long will my host term last?

Variable, but typically about one year. Let us know if you have a time-frame in mind.

Is there any cost?

ASMS splits the cost of shipping replica to host institution 50/50. Typical shipping is $800, so ASMS will invoice host for $400 or half of the shipping cost once the replica is delivered.

How is delivery of the replica arranged?

ASMS will arrange for shipment (pick up and delivery) unless it is easier for host to make arrangements. In this instance ASMS will reimburse host for 50% of shipping. Check out the replica packing guide to see photo of shipping crate (last page).

What if there is accidental damage to the replica?

ASMS carries insurance to cover the replica. However, it would not be easy to create a whole new replica so common-sense precautions on the part of host are appreciated!

Interested in becoming a host?

Interested hosts should read through the FAQs below and send email request to info@asms.org and/or to Jane Gale, ASMS Archivist/Historian at jane.pjgale@gmail.com. Request should include the host's name and affiliation. We anticipate the replica will be ready for a new home in mid-2026. Our goal is to develop a list of interested hosts so we can keep the replica travelling --and educating!

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