jesse Delano Keylock

Doug MacQueen

Just finished making this key for a Jesse Delano keylocking chest. Probably made around 1825-35. Very simple and definitely different from most others of the period. It would definitely confuse many would be pickers.

oldbiscuit

Doug, nice key work! Did you make the key out of one solid piece of brass or is it silver soldered together?:8):

Doug MacQueen

Thanks, it is silver soldered of three pieces which in a way is easier to make especially with the lath filing. It is real pleasure working on these old unusual locks. Doug

Doug MacQueen

I see where this Delano lock is much the same idea as the Abraham Stansbury 1805 English patented lock described in Geo. Prices 1856 book. Delano’s lock does heve end ward cuts but uses fewer pins but both require the key to be turned first before pushing in to set the pins. doug