Carriage part?

[Michaelangelo]

Found this behind where an old blacksmith shop used to be in the late 1800/early 1900's. Measures 9" x 6" x 1-1/4" wide (roughly 3/8" thick). Could it be from an old carriage? Any help greatly appreciated.

 

[DCMatt]

Iron shelf bracket?

DCMatt

 

[deepbeep]

I have restored a couple of old buggies/carriages. Though the parts vary widely depending on style, and region, those DO look like the suports used to hold the sides onto the floor. Your guess is a very good possibility!

Tim

 

[Michaelangelo]

Thanks deepbeep. Can't figure what the indentation is though. Maybe held a rod in place-possibly brake related?

 

[IronSpike]

It appear to be screws. When was screws invented?

1770. 1797/98 mass produced.

http://inventors.about.com/od/sstartinventions/a/screwdriver.htm

 

[lostcauses]

most likely a strong wood box with the slot for leather straps, but who knows for sure. It is for securing two woods or metal at a 90 degree angle.

 

[Michaelangelo]

It's not a 90 degree angle (wish I could get better pics to show the bend cause it does look that way).
Bends back at about 70 degrees and sideways about 15 degrees.