(Reprinted with permission from the January 1983 issue of "The Crown Point" newsletter by Dick & Dottie Daugherty.)

The "Otis Lightning Rod System" was most distinguishable by its insulators with its unique variations. The "Wiggle Top" (figures 1-8), as it is nicknamed, had a dual purpose: one, to hold the rod, and the other, to help dissipate the electricity after being struck by lightning. These "tops" varied in style and shape, apparently each an experiment to perfect its purpose. Colors are also varied. Most common is the sun-colored amethyst. Others are blue, light aqua, light green, green white smoke, straw, olive, clear, and clear with deep amber swirls. 

Otis systems have been found commonly up and down the east coast. Some, though rarely found, are still in service. The manufacturer of the rod itself is not known. The square rod seems to be distinguishable only with the Otis system. The rod in my collection is a 5/16" square iron rod with a twig-type point. This point is secured to the rod by means of a pin through the point and the rod. It looks as though the point was once gold plated (fig. 9).

The patent for this insulator was awarded to George W. Otis of Lynn, Massachusetts, on August 26, 1851. A copy of the Otis patent is fig. 10. 

The drawings of the known Otis insulators were sent to me by James Colburn. These are insulators in his collection.