CORNWALL KNIFE WORKS CONN.

[igreaves]

I'm looking for information about the maker of an old slipjoint toothpick folder I picked up in a yard sale for 50 cents. It's best feature is a nice carbon steel blade that holds a keen edge. Although the tip of the blade has been lost and reshaped, this is a nice sized knife that I have used for a few years. Looking on the web, I found Cornwall Knife Co, N.Y. but I don't think this is the same maker as for my knife. Anyone have details about the Cornwall Knife Works?

 

[Ratbert]

It appears similar in pattern to an old “Fish Knife”.
I found only one line about this company in Levine’s Guide...indicates that Cornwall Knife Works was possibly a manufacturer in the 19th Century.

 

[kvaughn]

Cornwall is a small town in N.W. Ct on the Housatonic River. There were quite a few small cutlery shops in this area due the availability of small streams and rivers for power. More than a few of the towns around here still have streets named "Knife Shop Rd"--KV

 

[igreaves]

Robert and KV,

Thank you for your replies. I appreciate the feedback. The handle scales are of a synthetic material that looks like early plastic, which makes me think that it may be early 20th C, but I guess it could be older. Nice to see that it is highly collectible too.

IG

 

[Ernie1980]

Just FYI- those scales could be celluloid, which always carries a risk of outgassing as it breaks down and ruining your knife. I like to carry and use those old carbon steel knives too, they usually take a nice edge like you mention

 

[igreaves]

Thanks Ernie:

Yes, celluloid seems a good possibility, although I have not seen celluloid in this pattern before. I've attached a couple more pics to show each side of the knife, and the scales show evidence of wear and handling. The pins are tight and the knife is solid for use. OAL = 6"

IG

 

[Lapedog]

I igreaves If those scales are celluloid or even if there is a slight cuance they might be then I highly suggest you store that knife separate from your other knives or steel items.

Outgassing can not only ruin the knife with the scales but other knives in close proximity should it occur.

 

[igreaves]

Thanks Lapedog. I have been keeping this knife separate from other items for the reason you suggest. IG

 

[lambertiana]

Goins lists Cornwall Knife Works Conn as c. 1890-1910, and says that there is no record of a firm by that name in Cornwall, CT, so it's anyone's guess who is really behind it. The celluloid looks more like 1930s to me.

 

[jc57]

Whut??!!

Already reported.

 

[Rollo49]

I am not able to download images but I have a folding knife made by Cornwall Knife Co, NY City. It has a celluloid handle also. It was passed down from my Grandfather.