Posted 12 years ago
MattyG
(197 items)
I have been buying select antique farm tools and hand forged wrought iron items. I live in an 18th century, stone farmhouse, and keeping to period is tough as I accumulate items for future decor. I picked this piece up at an Amish benefit auction last summer for a few dollars.
I'm not certain what it was used for, although appears to be some sort of tong or holder. The way this was made fascinates me, it has heavily hammered wrought handmade nails, wooden pegs, and thick strips of leather making up the hinge mechanism. The adjuster screw and retainer nut both looks hand crafted. I like these primitives, and have a small collection of iron and wood goodies.
If anyone know it's exact use I would love more information.
Sorry, I can't find a fitting category for this item
Tools and Hardware>Primitive>hand made ?
This looks like some sort of harness clamp to me. Generally, the nails with wrought heads would indicate it was made pre-1820s, but I suspect that Amish blacksmiths were making them this way a lot longer.
I've seen similar style clamps that were used in the construction of clinker built dinghy's to hold the planks in place whilst being nailed off.
It is a vise. The long jaws make it applicable to many items.
Thanks for the love Bellin68!
I have to agree with blunderbuss2, old school farmers are/were very resourceful and probably had thought of multiple uses. Some Amish are building a barn next door, I will print out and ask their opinion Monday.