Images(2)

Tin Tools 2015-138; 2013-56; 2014-70 through 2014-81

Bar Folder

Dateca. 1831-1853

Maker S. Stow & Co.

OriginAmerica, Connecticut, Southington

MediumIron, steel and brass

DimensionsOL: 23" OW: 21"

Credit LineGift of Stephen Eisenhart

Object number2014-76

DescriptionBar folder, early style with long handle.
Label TextAs the 19th Century progressed, the arsenal of tools designed to accelerate the pace at which tinsmiths could produce finished goods continued to expand. Appearing around 1820, this heavy tool was used to create long, perfectly straight folds in sheet metal. The angle of the bend was up to the workman, who frequently employed a bar folder to begin the process of creating a "lock seam."
MarkingsS. STOW & Co. SOUTHINGTON - CT WARRANTED struck into brass plate set on top of frame.
ProvenanceFrom the Eisenhart collection of tinsmithing tools.