Hit the creek again Sunday afternoon and it was as clear and pretty as I can remember. This was all I found but it was worth the trip to me. I figure it's a railroad lock, but does anybody have a rough idea of its age?
Very nice old lock. I like the pic in the water. Supposedly soaking in Apple cider vinegar and a good stiff wire brush will clean up rusted relics really well. You might find some maker's name hiding there.