A Sense of History (Case Content)

[Phil Elmore]

Many years ago, when I was a very young child, my great grandmother lived with my father's parents. We called her "Ma." When she passed away, a few of her things were given to family members. I only dimly recalled the incident my grandmother would recount for me many years later.

In 1992 I received the knife pictured here, as well as the ancient, well-used whetstone pictured. The stone is actually bowed out from years of use. The Case knife pictured is roughly two and five eighths inches long. The primary blade doesn't appear to have been used much, while the small wedge-shaped blade is sharp as ever. Its edge is the only portion of the blades that is not discolored with time.

I've no idea how old this knife might be, but I suspect very much so. It was old seventeen years ago when I got it from my grandmother. She included a note, which I have transcribed here.

March, 1992

Dear Phillip -

When your great grand-mother, "Ma" Wisenburn, died, you wanted this little knife. It was something she used in her sewing basket and she always kept it sharp with this little emery stone. Everyone agreed you were a little too young at that time, but I have kept it for you.

-2-

You may add it to your collection. I hope you are careful about your collection -- not that I worry about you, but there are some wierd thinkers in this world. There are individuals who think its okay to just kill anyone who doesn't think like they do. I'd hate to think that kind of person might have easy access to your collection.

Good luck always. We love you.

Grammy + Poppa

A sense of history is an invaluable thing, especially in a hobby like this one. Our knives often outlive us, and those before us.

 

[waynorth]

Nice story! A close picture of the tang stamp will help in determining the age.
I usually scan them at 500-600%, and crop them close.

 

[jackknife]

I love stories like this. Knives like this are the way more valuable knives, handed down from family, by family, with the stories of the person who had it. It should be kept with that letter and a photo of the great grandmother. Your kids will thank you for it some day.

Very nice.:thumbup::thumbup:

 

[65hoss]

Now that is what tradition and traditional are all about.
Thanks for sharing.

 

[Morrow]

Cool....I think that is an XX era small pen knife. The size is right at 2 5/8'' If I'm seeing the stamp correctly, (I love Photoshop) it was manufactured between 1940-1964.

 

[dispatch 510]

Great Story and thanks for sharing.

 

[338375]

Geez Phil, sounds like Grams was already worried about you even at a younger age

Just kidding... Thats really neat that you still have the note too...

Things like that are absolutely priceless and a great tie to times and people past.

I just found out that my Grama still has a pocket knife that was my great grandads.
He has been gone for probably close to 30 years now, he was 102 when he died...
I don't know what kind it is and don't care, but sure can't wait to get it.

 

[knifeaholic]

CASE XX 6233...rough black handles, regular pull master. Roughly post-WWII era, 1945 to early 1950's. Nickel silver bolsters, liners, and shield.

The pen blade is worn down at least 50% to that "wedge" shape.

 

[waynorth]

With morrowJ and knifeaholic, who needs more pics??:thumbup:

 

[cj65]

Good to have you back Phil; nice story, nice legacy.

 

[STDK]

Great story, it looks like it spent alot of time in your great grandma's hands.:thumbup:

 

[sunnyd]

Great provenance with the knife, Phil. I always love these stories. You are fortunate to have such a caring and cool family. I especially like your Grandmothers letter and admire your Great Grandmother for her choice in slip joints.. Knifeaholic has narrowed the identification down perfectly as he typically does.

Enjoy the knife!


Anthony

 

[Trent Rock]

That is really cool Phil!!
It would look great in a display case with the letter AND the well used whetstone

 

[Steven65]

A wonderful story Phil thank you for sharing it with us.

Your Grandmother also had beautiful penmanship. An art which, alas with the prevalence of the PC, is in decline.

A simple gift like that connects you with your own history and is more valuable than anything purchased in a shop.......enjoy!

 

[stockdog]

Thanks for sharing the great family story, just one of the things that makes the traditional forum so good.

 

[Buck_Fan]

That is just great. Thanks for sharing it with us all. I could read stories like that all day.

Bill

 

[Will Power]

Good to see you over here on this forum!

Very nice square bolster Pen that's been a working tool and thanks for the photo and background . Something that's been handed down is priceless.