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The Thomas Radioactive Cone (ca. 1930s) |
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| The Thomas Cone belongs to a
category of devices called emanators. The cone was placed in water, usually 1-2
gallons, to infuse the water with radon, a radioactive gas. Named after R.W. Thomas, inventor of the Revigator, the Thomas Cone was produced in large quantities between 1920 and 1940. At least one manufacturing center was located in Lubbock, Texas. Approximately 70 grams of carnotite ore inside the 4 1/2 inch porous concrete cone served as the source of radon. Farmers could purchase larger versions for use in animal water troughs. |
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Donated by the Public Health Service courtesy of Don Thompson and Ed Tupin and Leo Spencer with the State of California. |
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| Quoting the
manufacturer's literature:
"The Thomas Cone when placed in three or four gallons of any water for a period of twelve hours is fully guaranteed to charge it with RADON, GAS or RADIOACTIVITY the same that is found in the best springs of America and equal to the average spring of the United States." "HEALTH< WEALTH< and HAPPINESS. Having these, you have all, and the greatest of these is health for without health, wealth is valueless and happiness is impossible. The RADIO-ACTIVE Cone bears the Thomas Trade mark in the bottom of the cone, which is registered in the U.S. Patent Office. Look for the trade mark. BEWARE OF IMITATIONS! We maintain a staff of educators, not salesmen. One of them is at your service at any time." Size: 4 1/2" high, 3 1/2" diameter at base Exposure Rate: ca. 30 uR/hr above background at 1 foot. References: Manufacturer's brochure. Thomas RADIO ACTIVE CONE. No date but probably mid to late 1930s based on dates of reproduced letters. Wukasch, M.C., and Gilbert, D. Radiation Cones: Device of Quacks. Texas Health Bulletin. Sept.-Oct. 1964. |
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