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100 Objects #11: Brannock Device episode artwork

Jul 31, 2026 27 min

100 Objects #11: Brannock Device

from 99% Invisible Hosted by Paul Lukas, Isabel Angell

In 1925, the world saw the birth of what just might be the greatest gadget in American History: the Brannock Device. The metal contraption transformed the way we measure feet forever, and more than a century after its invention…it has barely changed. Roman Mars and journalist Paul Lukas trace the life of the Brannock Device, from its role outfitting WWII sailors to its surprising endurance into the modern era, even as the entire world changed around it. A History of the United States in 100 Objects is a production of 99% Invisible and BBC Studios. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

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In 1925, the world saw the birth of what just might be the greatest gadget in American History: the Brannock Device.

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100 Objects #11: Brannock Device

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