Introduced by Robbins & Myers in the spring of 1910 as an all-new "residence fan", this compact electric fan has 8" diameter blades and was "intended for ventilating and cooling rather limited areas, for which the 12-in. fan has often been found larger and more vigorous than necessary."

While most fans of the era came only in one color -- black -- the 1910 R&M line-up offered a variety of finishes including traditional black, oxidized copper, nickel-plated, white enameled, polished and lacquered brass, or brushed and lacquered brass. This fan is one of the latter versions, and is a rare variation today. Both AC and DC powered versions were available. While DC had been the electrical standard in the 1880s and much of the 1890s, by 1910 AC power had become dominant in most parts of the country. Very few DC fans of this time period survive.

It has two speeds, 1000rpm and 1700rpm, and is surprisingly effective for a such a small fan. The wing nut in the center of the stand allowed for the base to be mounted to a wall if desired, with the fan pointing forward. This example retains its original lacquered finish and is in remarkable condition.