Posted 3 years ago
EricWood
(14 items)
Hi guys,
I just got back from my late father's house and found a small suitcase with some very beautiful woodworking tools. I'll post the rest later but I'm wondering if anyone can help me identify this wood plane.
The name in Boston, as you see in the photo is EW Reed. However, when I search online the only woodworking tool maker that I can find is John Reed. Would anyone happen to be able to shed some light on this?
Interestingly, he attached a tiny tag which you can see in the photograph which says do not sell. I wonder if he thought this one had particular value.
Thanks so much for your help and expertise. You guys are always tremendously helpful.
Sincerely,
Eric
possibly coachmaker's rabbet plate; the name is possibly a past owner
https://www.worthpoint.com/inventory/search?query=wood+coachmakers+rabbet+plane&categories=
Could be past owner...also found this reference but nothing more...
"The Reed Family Planemakers: John Jr., William, Edward, and Charles; and In-laws Hiram Clark and Albert L. Gleason"
I think you need experts in this field. Try these guys..maybe they can help? Please update us if you find any further information..
https://www.woodenplane.org/NYC-Planemakers.htm
E. W. Reed this from the Internet: The last listing for John Reed appeared in the 1867 Utica city directory. In 1868 his son Edward took over the business and continued until 1894.
This is a total stab in the dark -- but based *only* on the interesting shape of the handle, I would wonder if this plane had some usage in the making of musical instruments such as violins...???
Thanks for the great and helpful comments so far guys! The possibility of his son taking over the business would certainly explain it. I'll follow up on the other leads you gave. I greatly appreciate your help!!
Eric
Eric I'm sure the city of Utica would have a historical society. Many times the employees there are a huge help doing research and most now have archives on a searchable database. Same goes for newspaper archives. Based on the prices the old man charged for his planes I can see why yours is marked do not sell. It was a good investment.
Luthier's rabbet plane i believe.
Great suggestions... Thanks so much guys. ????
I think TallCakes is correct in suggesting a coachbuilder's plane.