exceptional rare and all original 19th century antique american industrial "simplex" mobile large format camera stand or cart designed and patented (in part) by frank shepherd of freelandville, ind. the amazingly intact camera stand is comprised largely of varnished oak wood, with chamfered corners, grooved stretchers, beveled trimwork and recessed panels. the elevating platform is adjusted by engaging the fully functional rack and pinion movement manually operated by turning or rotating the oversized cast iron spoked wheel with original finely turned handle. the platform will rise or fall according to which way the handle is turned. the telescoping stand moves smoothly with the guidance of four iron and wood rollers mounted on each of the four corners. the stand retains the original solid wood swivel casters with black enameled cast iron forks. a third caster with operable foot lever is mounted between two finely turned spindle legs or feet. the 19th century camera stand was fabricated by the blakeslee, stahl mfg. co., quincy, il. measures 18 1/2 x 27 1/2 x 45 inches.