This was invented in 1860 by Daniel Hess of West Union, Iowa. They were rolled back and forth that created suction from the bellows inside. The first electric vacuums were invented 1899 but did not become practical until 1907.
THE SOVEREIGN VACUUM SWEEPER
About the Author: Bill Leaver
Bill Leaver has been associated with the Behnke Museum since it opened in 2003. He was named as Director/Curator in 2013.