This is a brass railroad caboose backup whistle made by the Sherburne Company of Boston, Massachusetts. These were used to control brakes from the rear end of the train by moving the handle up or down. This one is stiff, but it does move smoothly.

CONDITION: It is complete with no missing or broken parts. The handle has an old coat of dark red paint, some of which has worn away. On one side is cast SHERBURNE CO. BOSTON MASS. On the other side is cast PATENT 1890212, which was applied for by Charles H. Sherburne in 1932 and granted the same year.

SIZE is approximately 9 inches tall. The round base is 3 inches across.

This would be a terrific addition or starter piece for a train whistle collection -- or simply an interesting paperweight or "desk art" adding enjoyment to a train room.