Jenkins Scanner Drum for a Facsimile Receiver, circa 1927

Charles Francis Jenkins, pioneer of mechanical scanning television, also developed one of the first marine facsimile systems, depicted here. In 1926, Jenkins created an experimental device similar to a modern fax machine, capable of transmitting weather maps to ships at sea. In September, it became a lifeline, guiding the USS Kittery to safety against the blows of the Great Miami Hurricane.