Invention by B. F. Troup

TROUP

Posted By: JCGS Volunteer
Date: 10/9/2016 at 17:35:31

May Be Great Invention
The Monroe Mirror tells of an invention by B. F. Troup, of Monroe, that may prove a wonderful one. This invention, states the Mirror, is a mail post that will deliver a sack of mail into a car and at the same time will receive a sack from the same car, making a complete exchange of mail and at the same time the train may be going at a clip of from 40 to over 60 miles. After the train has gone the sack will be left hanging on the post instead of laying some place along the right of way or possibly cut in two by striking a switch stand.
This is the first invention in the way of a mail exchange that has ever been sent to the patent office.
Mr. Troup received word last week that his patent had been granted. Several of the railway officials are making inquiries in regard to its merits and workings. It is composed of steel and Mr. T feels confident that there is no doubt but what it will stand the force of any sack striking it. It is so arranged that as soon as the sack strikes it the weight of the sack breaks a hinged joint which releases a spring, which throws a pair of arms together, which catches the sack and holds it until taken out by the agent. We feel quite sure in our own mind, after seeing the model that it is a wonderful invention. Mr. T has not yet decided if he will manufacture it or sell it to some railway company. Several railroad officials have seen it and they all say it will be an absolute success in way of rapid exchange of mail. The post will receive a sack from either direction, also will deliver in car going either way.
Source: Newton Daily News; October 23, 1908, page 1