What is Despard?

[Dick in Wisconsin]

Here appears to be switches, pilot lights, outlets, etc.

Are they still used?

I think I might have some in a house built in 1955.

 

[The FIB]

They used them to put multiple devices in a single gang spot, pretty much obsolete now, they have been replaced with these type of switches.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-...bination-Switch-White-R62-01755-0WS/100356847

I still have a bunch of NOS despard stuff, if you need any replacement's let me know.

 

[n8n]

I remember those, you could have up to three devices in a single gang space, probably wouldn't fly today with modern wire fill requirements.

 

[The FIB]

You start with the metal strip available in single, 2, or three gang. Then you could mix and match any type of device you wanted to mount on the strip.

http://www.kyleswitchplates.com/despard-switches-outlets/

 

[Norcal]

If you only have 2 or 3 switches, Decora® style would be good replacement since Despard® are not a common as they once were.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Interesting. Ive never heard of or seen these before!

 

[rburke65]

Yes they were popular back in the mid '70s if I remember.