140 years in some very forgiving dirt..

mglentz4125

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Dec 27, 2016
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My typical old padlocks are usually unearthed as a solid mass of rusted iron but this one was found on the upper parts of a fairly dry, sandy hill. After a half day of penetrating-oil, brief electrolysis and a good flushing and I got it to unlock / lock (as the locking mechanism is barely grabbing so with some pressure can get back open without the key). Even the lock-cover swings. :)

If anyone recognizes the maker please let me know.

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mglentz4125

mglentz4125

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Dec 27, 2016
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Harbor Springs, MI
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I gave it a 140 year estimate only because everything on the site is dated between 1860s to 1890. Could be a few years older or a few years younger.
 

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Doubter in MD

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That is really cool! I have no guess as to age, other than "old" but thank you for posting it. I love seeing stuff like this.
 

Digger RJ

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My typical old padlocks are usually unearthed as a solid mass of rusted iron but this one was found on the upper parts of a fairly dry, sandy hill. After a half day of penetrating-oil, brief electrolysis and a good flushing and I got it to unlock / lock (as the locking mechanism is barely grabbing so with some pressure can get back open without the key). Even the lock-cover swings. :)

If anyone recognizes the maker please let me know.

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Nice!!! Cool Old Lock!!! Congrats!!!
 

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