Help info on Grandfathers pocket knife please

Frank Castle

Frank Castle

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Dec 6, 1999
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I was wondering if anyone had information about this little pocket knife once owned by my grandfather. It was made in Providence Rhode Island. It says "Colonial" on larger blade Prov RI. The smaller blade written: USA

He was a small grocery store owner in the 30's in Providence. I never got to meet him so I have no story to go with the knife. Can you help me with any history on this. This is not for sale. Value of item though out of curiousity. I'd realy appreciate any help. The story will be passed along with it to my son when it comes time. Thank you.

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http://site.quickbooks.com/sites/84/41/cd/s4supply02780/



[This message has been edited by Frank Castle (edited 09-04-2000).]
 
Post this over in Bernard Levine's area. He's 'The Man' when it comes to research.
 
Hi Frank,
Originally I'm from Providence, RI, too. Where was your grandfather's store?

Colonial Knife Co.has been around a long time. Started in 1926. Frederick Paolantonio (good Italian name,
smile.gif
) was the founder and he arrived in the US in 1903. He worked for various cutlery companies. When his brothers immigrated to the US they started the Providence Cutlery Company making skeleton knives. They did different ventures but by 1926 they formed Colonial Knife Company making an expanded line of pocket knives. The family still runs the company today. C. Houston Price in his book, Collector Knives rates Colonial as a one star company out of a possible 4 stars for collector's value. Of course you can never put a price on a knife from your granddad.

I hope this helps a bit.

Source: Price, Collector Knives, 12ed.

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~Greg Mete~
Kodiak Alaska
 
Kodiak,

His store was a bought out "First National" The store name escapes me. He would front food to people during the depression. "Providence Journal" had an article on him a few years ago. My grandfather was Irish but in good with the Italians fom what I hear
biggrin.gif
. I have found the company #1 800 556-7824. Additionally a current web site! www.colonialknife.com

I'm working on more info and will post an update if I find out anything good. This info alone is a nice to find. Thank you so much.


[This message has been edited by Frank Castle (edited 09-05-2000).]
 
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