unusually shaped original and intact 19th century american antique industrial "flint" stepladder fabricated by the e.r. flint company, morenci, mi. the ladder's design was patented by esra r. flint on september 10th, 1883. the folding or collapsible stepladder is comprised largely of oak wood with a nicely weathered and worn finish. the rungs and top step are in good condition, considering age. the steps are curved reawardly from the hinged supporting upright legs reinforced with cross-bracing. manufacturer markings are partially intact on the underside of a rung. top measures 17 x 8 1/4 inches and when open ladder measures 17 3/4 x 23 x 43 1/2 inches.