An examination of the problems to be encountered by unspecialized archaeologists and curators when remains of 19th-century primary cells and batteries are found during excavations or rescue work in abandoned structures or buildings. Early or original batteries-based on designs of W. Cruickshank, W. H. Wollaston, W. R. Grove and J. F. Daniell, housed in the Science Museum, London-are described. Most finds are of glass or ceramic jars though many 19th-century telegraph batteries were in partitioned wood troughs; references. -- AATA