Description

A large and substantial four draw brass telescope, signed on the first draw, ‘E.B. Meyrowitz inc, New York, London, Paris’. Also engraved on the top collar, ‘ Reward for return to: WAVELAND, Belle Terre, N.Y.’

Emil Bruno Meyrowitz, born on the 20th October 1852 in Greifenhagen, Prussia, was the founder of the eponymous oculist. E.B. Meyrowitz henceforth began its rich history in 1875. Stores were opened in London, Paris and New York over the course of the next twenty years retailing not only spectacles but all manner of optical goods, devices and instruments.

The peninsula on which the community of Belle Terre is situated has been known as Mt. Misery since the 17th century. Before Belle Terre’s modern existence, the area was referred to as Mt. Misery Point. In 1902, the Port Jefferson Company purchased the Oakwood estate there with the purpose of creating an exclusive waterfront development of fifty houses.

The construction of the Belle Terre Club, a grandiose private members club at the centre of the community, also occurred in 1906. In 1931, Belle Terre incorporated itself as a village.

During the 1920s and 1930s, the community’s residents staged a successful campaign against sand and gravel companies who began dredging operations in the area. Prior to these companies being ordered to cease operations in 1931, the Seaboard Sand & Gravel Company dredged a large cove near the tip of the peninsula. This is today known as Pirates Cove.

The telescope measures 12″ long when closed and 42.75″ when drawn with a main lens of  2″. It gives excellent, clear views. No dents or chips; all working well. The small dust shield is missing from the eye-piece. It is quite heavy and difficult to hold for a long period. With the engraved ‘reward for return’ prompts me to think that this telescope may have belonged to the gravel company, the Belle Terra club or lifeboat assosiation.

E.B. Meyrowitz is still in business today in The Arcade, Old Bond St, London.