I've been trying to figure out what it's function was. It doesn't resemble
any modern beekeeping tolls, that I've seen. Any insight would be
greatly appreciated.
From the pictures it was difficult to see the working edge but I'm guessing it was blunt rather than sharp. My guess is that this tool was used with a pail of hot water as an uncapping tool. Frequent dipping would have melted the caps for removal. As I write this it occurred to me that this could also be used for chunk comb separation. Buy it and try it.
Was this said to be a "Bee Keeper's Knife"? Or is it imprinted on it?
If in fact it has something to do with beekeeping, considering the
approximate date of manufacture 1849-1866. This would be a
period when the box hive would have been in use in many parts
of the USA. Bees were allowed to build comb freely in box hives
without frames, and it would have been necessary to cut the comb
free. If in fact, it is a beekeepers knife, the shape, length and lack
of sharp blade would serve this purpose well.
Joe, it doesn't appear to have any markings other that the manufacturer's
name and address. That said, I'm not sure how the seller has identified it
as being related to beekeeping. A good friend has had one in his collection,
that was also identified as such, but he couldn't figure out what it's function was.
When I was a kid, back in the 50's, my grandfather had a large comb in an
old apple tree on the farm. It was inactive and he always hoped bees would come back. To the best of my knowledge, that never happened.
Anyway, thanks again for all of you help.
Best,
Wendell
PS.
I won't be buying it. Way too much money for such an obscure item. Maybe
it will get re-listed in the $10-$15 range.... ;-)
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