Hatchet Stake

Date1750-1820

MediumIron / steel

DimensionsOH: 14 1/2" Blade: 7 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Judith and William McMillen

Object number2012-47

DescriptionHatchet stake with a wide blade. Tapered square post flaring out to the blade edges.
Label TextCalled a "hatchet" stake for its resemblance to the wood cutting tool, this stake was used for both seaming and folding. A piece of tin was placed along the side of the blade and beaten over the top edge, forming a straight fold. Taken one step further, the hatchet stake could be used in making a "locking seam" as found on many pieces.

This example is of graceful construction with a double-tapered post which flares out to meet the edges of the blade. A prominent seam on the face of the blade is indicative of its bimetallic construction, and denotes where the steel working edge is welded to the wrought iron bottom portion.