Historic Pen Knife - DC

texasshipagent

texasshipagent

Joined
Jan 11, 2015
Messages
378
Came across this at the Museum of American History today

935c096fd111d1969cbff99da007328d.jpg
 
Looks like a fine little knife. I'll look for it next time we're there.
 
Over 115 years old and still in style today its a lovely knife . shame the blades aren't open :)
 
I think the museum did a very poor job of displaying these 2 items. A museum's role is to inform people. Displaying the knife closed limits what might be learned from it, such as exact size, pattern, maker, blade wear, etc. It should not be displayed all blades open but good enlarged professionally done pictures displayed with it would make it a more interesting, informative display. Same for the wallet.
Anyone recognize this knife ?
3-4" Pen knife ? single blade ? fancy bolsters (name for this style ?) might help ID manufacturer or country of origin.
Would be interesting to know more about Pres. McKinley's pocket knife.
kj
 
kootenay joe said:
I think the museum did a very poor job of displaying these 2 items. A museum's role is to inform people. Displaying the knife closed limits what might be learned from it, such as exact size, pattern, maker, blade wear, etc. It should not be displayed all blades open but good enlarged professionally done pictures displayed with it would make it a more interesting, informative display. Same for the wallet.
Anyone recognize this knife ?
3-4" Pen knife ? single blade ? fancy bolsters (name for this style ?) might help ID manufacturer or country of origin.
Would be interesting to know more about Pres. McKinley's pocket knife.
kj
Click to expand...

I don't think most people care much the granular details, was not much detail on Tony Hawks skateboard either :) I do intend to google it later and see what can find out
 
Very interesting. My hypothesis is that it was German-made based on the small mop pieces and fancy nickel silver bolsters. Looking forward to learning more.
 
I wonder who took (and kept) the cash from his wallet and the gold coins from his pockets on the day he was shot.
They display the money Lincoln had in his pocket, when he was shot.
 
jackknife said:
Strange.

I recall reading that pencils actually never had lead, but have been graphite from early on. Graphite is one of the worlds best dry lubricants in powder form.
Click to expand...

Graphite is also electrically conductive. Not something you want floating around where there are electronics.
 
This thread is a great example of the interesting stuff I learn almost every day at BF! :thumbup::D
Thanks to all for their contributions.

- GT
 
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