NINETEENTH CENTURY
CARPENTERS' TO :I
with emphasis on
the
first half
of
that century

A survey of tools commonly used by the carpenter for the construction
of wood frame buildings.

- .AE 685
Tecbhologies I
for
Philip Wisley

by
by c~"\`-,

i2k~

JERRY W. MILLS

INTRODUCTION

The material presented herein represents a basic overview of common tools used by the
carpenter of the nineteenth century in America. Very roughly the format attempted to
follow the sequence that might have been used by the carpenter during the construction
of a woodframe structure. Thus, the felling axe is shown first, for rough work and
moulding planes last, for adding the ornamental touches so often lacking in contemporary
architecture. The survey was grouped into eleven sections and within each group, again,
the attempt was made to present the rougher tools first and the more fine, precise tools
last.

Only six of the eighteen books shown in the working bibliography were used, but the
other twelve were included for the reader wishing to develop a deeper study and methodology
of these early tools. A great deal of information was also derived by simply studying
the tool itself, all of which were readily available to this author for inspection, photo-
graphy and use. Truly to develop an intimate knowledge of these tools one must feel them
and use them and in most cases one is rather surprised, when using them properly, to find
the ease with which they can be implemented.

I cannot express enough gratitude to Theodore Crom, who not only allowed me to inspect
these tools at my leisure, but was always more than willing to let me use his tools for the
purpose for which they were designed, and correctly instruct me on their use. The atmosphere
of his workshop was very conducive to study and though not enough time was available to develop
the kind of expertise desired, much knowledge was gained in the relatively short span of this
quarter.

The original form is included and the binding is looseleaf with the hope that, in the
future, many more tools can be added, or corrections made where appropriate.

CONTENTS

AXES, ADZES

SAWS

RULES

SQUARES

GAUGES

LEVELS, PLUMS,

MALLETS, HAMMER

CHISELS

BRACES, BITS,

PLANES

MISCELLANEOUS

, CHALKLINE

ERS

I.

II.

III.

IV.

V.

VI.

VII.

VIII

IX.

X.

XI.

AUGERS

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping X boring-__ sawing_ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing_
other

I-$
-~;-z -

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

- tfe.L

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Basic tool used by wood-
cutters for felling trees.

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishingLX
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-Blade is perpendicular to haft (or handle)
-Flat poll for use as a mowl.
-Blade curved inward with bezel on inside.
-The head was made to be removed from tne
haft for sharpening.

h.. ' ,.
I

* S.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p.11, 12
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p.27-29

4.1
-K~
I /i

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used in squaring freshly
hewn beams.

CARPENTER'S ADZE

'-9
"<

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing X
other

A,

.t* ..=.

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Similar to the carpenter's adze, but with
a curved blade.
-This poll was used to beat down old
nails, usually by the shipwright.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For cutting curved
slots or channels. Used by the frontiers-
man in cutting corner joints for the
Inn -ahvin

GUTTER ADZE

i-, ~
,d

r il
,~ca

r; :te
n
-
c
.. ,

L$

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: L
chopping boring__ sawing hammer
nceasuring__ shaping & finishingL_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

- iilav-B -to ike 4ay-p&Acec. & bdL
UJ3-h 2, C.JeA blabe,
-.T, It. rol %eG'4O b.e_ JIto-.

//olll v-al Uy ShpunA'

{~\ gao-no/, i y
--.~:: (' ,, o ,

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

V

BASIC. SOURCES:
i 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. .
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Musi._
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. _
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... Z.. _
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

c __

PRIMARY FUNCTION: -| GO t G, e
4-1-i-e A'? chy )1 Ye^0 C U,- >,-Vh 4 >A y-v

6U'>1vT~v~i 9 QZ.~

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ h
measuring_ shaping & finishing
other

ammering_
X

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Blade sharpened on one side only.
-Handle was curved to avoid bruising
knuckles.
-A:: log was set about knee high on underplaced
cross-stripe and the bard was removed with
a draw knife or bark peeling chisel (spud).
The chalk line was made and the workman stooc
on the top and scored it with a felling axe.
Along the side and almost to the chalk line.
Then, standing on the ground with the log on
his left he held the axe with his righthand
ahead of the other and started hewing down-
ward and diagonal ocrossit. Adze_ were also

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 82
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 1
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. _
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 18
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
rafters and beams,

For finely hewing

BROADAXE (chisel-edged)

"' *: ^ -:^

*RnEV yT IF-*-n."T-- ip 1|.71
-
-
ia

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

'-S ~^

BASIC. SOURCES:
'11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p,
S12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mhs.. "
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
--.14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... .
,.I15. Old Ways of Wrking Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

iU:

'N

PRIMARY FUNCTION: FPor- f-minely f
rf-ifecc40f^ \6ez

---

~E26bp 63~ (Ch \'ic~ Sc(se~)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_X boring__ sawing__ hammering X
measuring_ shaping & finishingX
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Equipped with a pounding poll.
-Usually basilled and swollen at the eye
on one side only.
-Short haft, made to be used with one hand.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 87
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: "To smooth-surface odd
joints, faces, corners, etc...." 11-87

CARPENTERS' HEWING HATCHET

Pr, %;

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing_ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other splitting

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-Has a broad
-Haft is for
pulling and
splitting.
-Work should
wood.

backside for striking.
control and also for torque, by
pushing to induce more rapid

be done on far side of piece of

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
L 1. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 13
.1i2. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. P. I
~13.-1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 79
1-l4. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
SDevices..... p. 93.
Old Ways of Working Wood. p. 62
18. A"Museum of Early American Tools. p. 31,33

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For splitting or riving
sections of wood, with the grain to produce
wood lath strips or more especially, shingles

/

I-

FROE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing_
other i'

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. pQJ,
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Ms. ,
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. ,7)
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Ha dtools and
Devices..... .___
15. Old Ways of Working Wood. ( 2.,
18. A Museum of Early American Tools. ?3t[ .
nTDwn

7t2
ri3~b;c~d

'i 77,

f/
7///

PRIMARY FUNCTION: S- iU,, ; \r-'C

-, *. -T. ( '* 1 y

1...... S
'.?. I'' ',2 A ', .4.-:I

j'v. ' A Ii -'*l

"b.' uJ~~~:~:Ch;:~.~: L'~. I..
.* .r.:b'~" *1 *.
hIL

01,
*f k .:L

'a

. ... .. .. .4. .
.4,
~' 4A" *
.... iS: IP IF~.

'' A'

.4'jg.skT -ir~~~ '~Itir
4W -lot

I-'' "'I.

I'.I~ 6 S

Te "e, :

NiT.
1 -' '2*~:

: -~

:.r
I
~ ::.T~;
k. , '
.;- ,$~.~.
.r
.-

.1;1
:~V .
.*: i.:;.... r-
a, ~~
~.

~. iI: .L-.
:
" .-I~ r
: .

j.i
-I;:': :.

:: ,.
!

~I-, 1,1~:

4>,

4 .el 4 .

*- ^ ^ -./ *..^^ -.-

-t, .1

- f. r- ,,. -- -

.: ;.i
:t-;-~- ~;:

:i::

I~

~
zi:1
-
:

"`

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawingX hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This type reaches lengths up to 7'.
-Raking, which determines the direction the
teeth must be moving to cut the wood is
vertical, thus cutting occurs in both
directions.
-The set, for this type of saw, is wide to
reduce binding in deep cuts.
-The teeth, are arranged in repeated groups
of three two 'cut-off' teeth and one
'clearer' tooth.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 161
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 69
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 196
* 15. Old Ways of Working Wood. p. 47
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For initially sawing
logs; for cutting cross-grain. Also
used in felling trees.

TWO-MAN-CROSSCUT SAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: i k lj J 7'
- -I.kN IS, e)kV IWe* cvmo -7

u~oro I-- ^6 C *ncS rr bolh \ c( -The Ire, 0-$C-e WC c,, 1- cL4rrL

- Ieh are arh ^ <& y4p
-CL^^^ .o^^'^&U one

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. ,I(c .
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburde Mus.
S13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. b6=
S14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... r. (P9 .
S15. Old Ways of Working Wood. p, 47.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Fcr- iTn1)l Y C Dy U~d 1

Tw O 'AW4 CQo04COT ,SV, ,

,1-r -

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing X hammering_
measuring_ shaping & finishing_
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Fixed blade, with teeth similar to those of
the cross-cut handsaw.
-Not a precision tool.
-A rod and turnbuckle or earlier a twist str
and stick (see bow saw) is parallel to the
blade at the opposite end of the frame and
is tightened as necessary to put tension,
adding rigidity to the blad.
-Possibly dates back to the Egyptians, more
likely to the Greeks and Romans.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 147
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 69
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
ApuD *

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
cutting firewood.

Used in most cases for

BUCK SAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing_ hammering_
measuring__ shaping & finishing_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
- <e, V I [a \ .,|,v,<~ir 4co
--se o -~k- crs-Ul, ha osl .

- c&, tl kr ,,lcklc orA6\\er a .
'rl L c- AC1V-Gee SOa 6) \ I ,

^\^^W bal-kj' ,^ ^7 1 VKIe

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. ,. 147
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne'Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. 7, 9
S14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices....._
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:
.~-L~fBCI-rr- .? ^ r- T 1m -''-r-^e
N. W -To \D T

Ie~ O('

brain ,

PRIMARY FUNCTION: cg |N M.C-s4:S ce-

I,-^ 43S

L~F~l~n C\dri ? ;-!

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing X hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Tension is adjusted in the blade by twisting
the stick and letting it rest against the
central brace.
-It was eventually replaced by the open
American handsaw.
-Teeth usually rake forward are set for
ease of cutting.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 147
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: This was the basic multi-
purpose carpenters' handsaw.

BOW SAW

MP~

BASICALLY. THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing hammering
measuring__ shaping & finishing_
other
PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

Ancient carpenters Tools. \,
- Trcl Je IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p47
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne us.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: T1K % S o i. ^[\ -1

AAH ? )

J 4k & 1C
810? be- *^

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing X hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Used to cut across the grain.
-Very little raking allows penetration in
both directions.
-Usually has slightly skewed back.
-Fairly wide set to reduce binding.
-Fewer teeth per inch than the ripsaw, which
looks very similar. The major difference
in the two saws is the type of toothing.

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 69
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
to desired lengths.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

-7

1 -^

\4t

i,N

For cutting lumber

CROSS-CUT HANDSAW

ia~, qP~

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__boring sawing, hammering_
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
- u -~\/& ^l4e r<-(i\ sA.^^ IllOCS~fr pne<\eta -
- kr~ s
+ior\ In b^4^2 drle'^OY\on
- u-^Uy hkss l^k4^t~8 blu^e ~k.

- Fn4 ''jx5o E\ 4IDh<

-\p<1161-1 ,i^ik LV- VIo7 9v
4rr(N\\^-. Tk&W^'o'r-'A<, In^
b^b SbLL

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:
---------------------/''S
15

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
S13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. (g
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Hanttools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: F CA y4 lufY p f er-
(_O

,- '-4 T

,I,,,

I~ Ak~t~L~3h~

f

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering_
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
"The teeth of the ripsaw work like small
adzes or chisels, each tooth cutting away
a little piece of wood. While being the
same length as the crosscut handsaw, there
are fewer points per inch, usually 5 to 7".
14-198.
-This saw is used when cutting with the grain
of the wood.
-Forward rake to cut while pushing only.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

I,

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 69
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 198
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
odd jobs when it
the grain of the

For cutting notches or
is necessary to cut with
wood.

RIPSAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
Shoppingg_ boring sawing_ hammering_
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

- ky3 oakke $e \\\ Je4
^^\\ ize^jJ r 4 c '\se\Ae, cA.A 4 yLK
. co~i^ ^ 4W is V l \e ub.?ocd4 4Jakse -6 Ck(- o,le FoM.(eK t.
Z?^ {lu oros9 h4wii c, tikAe &te

2>Als/ "

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. 1.d(.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices...... ,___
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: i-r

4 teo?4 +Co
0C 4V2 VCT '

Y-v

-a~s~~L

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing X_ hammering
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other BP

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Rib on backside of blade gives this saw
its rigidity.
-Description of this saw can be found in
1549 edition of The New English Dictionary
-This saw is not meant to completely
penetrate the work.
-19th c. models had 8-10 teeth/in., presently
have 12-16.
IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 139
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 70-
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 194
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used to make smooth,
precise cuts in small work. Cuts tenons,
dovetails, or mitrefittings. BACK, or TENON SAW
BACK, or TENON SAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing )_ hammering_
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. ,
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. ,70..
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... 4.
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
nT'PTi *

01

V
-C-~ Kc x'^1

r> l p ; \ )
\\<.'v \\ .,, -cl^+

PRIMARY FUNCTION: 0-se 4s ae D n smoo4,

4 '7

r-I) C )Or-.

Th~.342 ~A~-i

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing hammering__
measuring __ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Width of blade tapers away from teeth to
reduce binding in cutting curve.
-Teeth usually have no set.
-Handle can be like that of a handsaw,
with a closed grasp, or more commonly with
a block handle grasp.
-Commonly have 5 teeth/inch.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 139
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 70
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 195. 199
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
or circles.

For cutting curves

COMPASS SAW

-...BTASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
Shoppingg_ boring__ sawing_ hammering_
measuring_ shaping & finishing_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

nl dI kc A c.ww. -"-e

- Hvalc no :P. .
op a -h^^^auL lwi b clo,5<4 4msp,
(4A I\ I>rol LkA 5 wok CC l

-c646 6

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

AL, % b1(-e

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 9
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
1:3. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. <,Q.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Harldtools and
Devices..... p. 195 \ 99
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: oR COo,. OUre-5
orv C.VrC.Ae-e

nQ se/

Co0AA,--:

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing X hammering_
measuring shaping & finishing
other -.

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Like the compass saw, the teeth usually have
no set and the blade tapers away from th
teeth.
-The handle is usually straight and round,
as in aparing chisel.
-Blade is usually narrower than a compass
saw, thus enabling it to cut smaller
curves.
IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 139
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 70
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices...... n. 199
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: As the name indicates this
saw is used for cutting holes for door hard-
ware, or very small circular holes. KEYHOLE SAW
KEYHOLE SAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing X hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-A small saw for cutting notches along the
edge of a piece of wood, for joining it
to another.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 60

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used by the stairmaker
in constructing stairs.

RABBET SAW

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing_ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing c
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-A. Multi-gauge, manual sawset There are
six gauge sizes available with this de-
vice, however the angle to be set must
be guessed at.
-B, C. Adjustable sawsets These two de-
vices are adjustable to accommodate most
gauges and automatically bend the tooth
to its proper angle.

The purpose of bending the teeth is to IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES
widen the kerf or cut made in the work by the
saw blade to reduce the binding of the blade.

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices .....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

SAWSETS

- :. 7

,. f-i..--.."
*. - ?- I*c * .i:

-I r -
I~~ I '1t" 0

~:.r4.

A. ,.. L:tLAAA

t t~' "v' ':

4c c': 'if"'.
1. Y *'*'1't I try' I. Al.
Yb .'IjA ,' t'ii
'Th .1 .' -e N. A

N4' 9
~~I....

,L 7 ''1'i ,
IL 9 '* .I; '7, .
'1;~ ':A 1;I A
--\

.i ?%j~ A.. 74 "'

%tmAF~ iF p.,.. "
.t'4."*LP A

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
choppingT boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring-__ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Probably the most common of all the carpen-
ter's measuring devices.
-Commonly constructed of boywood with brass
fittings.
-American Rules were made to be read from
Right to Left, while English models were
read from left to right.
-1/8" increments on one side, 1/16" incre-
ments on other.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 65
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 73
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 191
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For measuring desired
lengths. This particular model is a "two
fppt. four fold. narrow rule."

FOLDING CARPENTERS' RULE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring___ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

iA -

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. .,.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p,7.,
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... ,<
15. Old Ways of'Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

:~L

I a.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: a2o -

~OL~\~6 ehtZX()c~c~f~ ~ZjLE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing_ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Wood and brass. Increments of 1/8" a
1/16".
-Has extension of brass to measure frc
edge of work.

nd

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early AmericaD Tools.
nTiWP* InTormatlon Trom led Crom.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To measure a layout re-
quired lengths or widths, center lines, etc.

E (two-fold narrow rule)

)m

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Wood and heavily brassed.
-Has a built-in level.
-An adjustable scaled blade can be set at
any acute angle for checking or laying out
work of various angles.
-Has a potent date of January 12, 1859.
-Read from Right to Left.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTrmR: Information from led Lrom

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For measuring required
lengths or odd angles.

FOLDING RULE (two fold, narrow rule)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_4 shaping & finishing_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

h- L,(e- c" 2 +

I'\ c6 'N Ib ', t 0, ,.' -

- '.Y Tf-Vot I< -C 1 c- l ,.iqF

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: z v, z td RiSt
L i -Q-\ oJC~o, L- --,.

F- LQ> I flK)r&OL.)L (Two FOL.D, k)>el20P

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Each segment is 8" in length, and is equipped
with a small brass spring locking device.
-Read Left to Right.
-Preceded the zig-zag rule and was much
less common.
-1/16" increments.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of.Ear Ameri Tools.
nTWR.T InfomatV I I VU e I t-u VU1-.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For measuring larger
work. It extends to 6 feet.

CARPENTERS' INTERLOCKING MASTER SLIDE RULE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring ~ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Older versions of this measuring instrument
were of 1' sections and had brass hardware.
Presently they are in 8" sections and range
in length from 2' to 8' in two-foot incre-
ments with the 6' and 8' models most common.
-1/8" and 1/16" increments.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. P. 73
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 191
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
ATWulD *

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For measuring various
lengths, up to 8'.

ZIG-ZAG EXTENSION RULE

it-. ~..r
4~Z
C

1.~
) ." p
a
r ~&.b4IIr4~Ic -~ f~~1q~C, tx"

4. 5fJ.~ U ~r?1

S 4:t'm*;4 I I
~ 1 -
as
*'. .it' 7 .07
- -. ;L 41'~ ~
* tJ.~j .'I~ *.. ~ r ~
~. ~4"-'i irh
2

..~. .4s~'
.~,. *,71q
I -
~ r~ 71 -
U Ij
I *~* 7" .- r-. -~
cv -,
t ,c--* *-- -
U.
C
:L *U~~' ~ -
k *J,.j
-~ '* g.~s2t -
~h ~> ~.A5r~ 44.~. ~ a
.t '.

4. ~Up4 r
e-1. *U'7UU2 ~&~' A -Ic *~C -
-7

U.- *
"II'
in.'7.- U *. .t*.. *. ar ~ r ~ b

.1. HjO. N *4~e. .~. ~
'a-- ~A- .- 2'7~ -*C%. a-LU-

-S. ?.~y'u -. -

a .
& Ut
-U--

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing_ hammering_
measuring^- shaping & finishing__
other also 1ayingout lines

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This framing square is of iron, earlier
models were of wood and newer ones
of steel.
-Graduations vary, this one is in 1/8"
increments.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 58
* 12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p 59
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p73_
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 219
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For laying out lines per-
pendicular to the edge of a piece of wood.
Used in framing up wood structures.

CARPENTERS' FRAMING SQUARE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_), shaping & finishing___
other AL_20 L&,Y'i6t) 00" U S.I_

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

^ if rvo ie w r\ve.~' ne

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

,. / J .--- - - ^a r e

BASIC. SOURCES: /
-? 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. / !5 .
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. .
S13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. o. .
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Hand ools and
Devices..... l. .l.
S15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: T L.A,'> 6 OO cT L

4 Ac i MAO o-ArJrej CM /TSQ' 4NYVY S^'

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing__
other also lavinaout lines.

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Pair of matching try-squares.
-No scale visible, only provides a straight
rigid edge with which to mark off the work.
-Blade at right angles to wood handle.
-Handle commonly made of rosewood.
-Brass face plate to protect wood.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 58
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 73
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 220
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
nTWD *

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For layout work. To
provide an edge to score a line along,
perpendicular to edge of wood.

TRY SQUARE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__-sawing__ hamm
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other A 2 'i '? L t,

lering__

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

4 C?- v^ te S
-1^0 ~l re/oS
-^*-^^ v~<^\l e'^ u/u~h c%)'

~~Qc-Yvrv-cf/Wj

IMPORTANT VISUAL

o0 4S( 9

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. s
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. 1,7*.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... ., 2. 2.___
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: F-oR L-Aoof O'-,

von,, l- + &

FEATURES;

z,

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ .sawing__ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing
other also-Tayintout lines

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-The try square shown here is very similar
to the previous two. The difference is
two-fold First, the handle is attached
to the blade with a 450 angle shoulder,
allowing the square to be used as a miter
bevel. Secondly, the blade has a scale
with 1/8" increments.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:
*

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. P. 58
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 220.
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To lay out right angles
to the edge of the wood. This square can
alsn he used to lay out a 450 anale.

TRY SQUARE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering_
measuring,_) shaping & finishing__
other > LAnti oaiT LaE-.

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.p._2 ,,
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices...... .2o0 .
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

-7

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To L-Ay oo0 0 \ % k

Ti^ ?AJ bc WAe C1 4o ,=Z bla T O -
A dx,~ ..-I-.. I - UP

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring_ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-This adjustable measuring
lays out the desired rise

device accurately
to run ratio.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum oq Early Amerjcn Tools. ___
nTuP.P InTormatLon Trom T ed M rom.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: This is a specialized piece
of equipment, used exclusively for framing
staircases.

STAIR FRAMING SQUARE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

cde^enree C>V: rccL o '

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

e ~e-

5+c~ vV~~

~rx~-- -R-~

iV. --'- ----

-'v~ f'--~,

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Tk \a 2 :C l t&.

-TvS>V~ vfr '.v^ ^*<>< C&c<<

C~~irhr27 F-ih~~i ~-,-

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing__ hammering__
measuring X shaping & finishing___
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Blade set at a 450 angle to the stock or
handle.
-Blade is steel, handle is rosewood with
brass trim.
-No scale on blade.
-Gives an accurate 450 angle against which to
score a line.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. __
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p.73
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 220
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used to lay out miter
joints.
FIXED BEVEL OR MITER SQUARE

_ BASICALLYJTHIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
,;,.-'chopping__ boring__ sawing_ hammering___
..measuringX shaping & finishing___
Sother_____________________________

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

'an- G c Qvp 4 z 43v% It

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.-.W,
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Hdndtools and
Devices..... .2.20...
1. 5. Old Ways of Working Wood.
: 18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: U- .S-'o t l. -Ay 'f OOT
,Md-. 30, Td,~

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring sawing__ hammering
measuringX shaping & finishings_ trut
other p opo

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Adjustable flush lever to place blade at
any desired angle.
-Blade is steel and is retractable for the
protection of blade and ease of carrying.
-Probably the most common of carpenters'
bevels, earliest models were constructed
of two pieces of wood pinned together.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 73
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 220
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
*OTIHMER: *fmTed Crom

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To check and mark odd
angles.
SLIDING T BEVEL

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS:USED FOR:
chopping___ boring__ sawing___ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other-

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-*A3y^ le "Q'! leve'^ 4op Fbe-
-6btclea4 aviny, c^rsey ars e

-~ c.: M-pw ii:4 OorbrY,)e'4 4 ? 6
e-e, clK pr{^jcA&A <= S: bl~e <
r ~ r '

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p.7 ,
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Haddtools and
Devices..... o.___
15. Old Ways of' Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
49 OTHER: !T i s Ti- MAjr-

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

fst
~ ~

K "7 -~

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Jo ec, I -r

5 4 LlCl6IW

-7"- r-v\ L.

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuringTX shaping & finishing__
other Also marking.

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Replaceable pin set in one end to produce
the scratch.
-Lesser expensive, more common model, probably
of beech.
-Wood thumb screw to adjust head.
-Graduations on the side to measure distance
from edge to score line.
-When the head is set the guage is placed
against the edge of the wood and either
pushed or pulled with the pin leaving a
straight parallel scratch.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
k2. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus 56,57
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 74
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 97
*15. Old Ways of Working Wood. p. 221
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
ATuhO*

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To score a line parallel
to the edge for the purpose of laying out
a line.

MARKING GUAGE

IIn-

g 9k C )~i4. g

A..,.$.

9 .

AlAl

t

Its.

V4 %4 4*' 'L

K

'I

-It

- V

- .t--* .' Is~' --

.5 A'.
*~,. ~ *,&, '
* .. . .4 ~a4-

'S

I

1 .

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering_
measuring X shaping & finishing
other also for laying out a pair of parallel

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This is a quality instrument made of Rose-
wood with brass fittings and thumb screws.
-One point is fixed, the other adjustable to
widen or make narrow, the width of the
parallel lines desired.
-Also it is equipped with a single point, for
scribing a single line at the desired
distance from the edge.
-The face of the head is inlaid with a flush
piece of brass to protect the wood from
wear.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 97
*15. Old Ways of Working Wood. P. 21
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: T scribe a
parallel lines, parallel also
of which its drawn.

pair of
to the edge

MOISTURE GAUGE ov% *

. ... f .........

-----~

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing__ hammering___
measuring X shaping & finishing__
other_____________________________

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Works on the same sliding principle as the
marking and mortise gauges.
-Made for scoring lines beyond the pene-
tration of the marking gauge.
-To-head is held in place with a wood wedge.
-This model is of breech.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 74
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p, .98
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For scoring a line
parallel to the edge of a board. Used for
larger work than the marking gauge. PANEL GAUGE

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing
other for cutting thin wood

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Also called a slitting gauge and is very
similar in appearance to the marking guage.
It is of heavier construction and the pin
is replaced with a cutting blade. Both
head and blade are adjusted with wood wedges.
-Underside is scaled with 1/8" increments.
-Blade can be adjusted for depth and
ultimately removed for sharpening or
replacement.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
*15. Old Ways of Working Wood. p. 221
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used for accurately
slitting thin boards or veneer.

CUTTING GAUGE

z.i.. t j~M j rr ; -.- *''f "4i *-9;- -. -. br' *. .. '; -,. '.* 9:-

OR A W-411ij; lit-
:' L%"w-gk t
"&m -

2"1-v AA, ~ s:.~~ s

IV I
!4
F.40

LA f,

9 ~ ~ 3 I 'I '"

2t' 4-cfr

..-VI. LEV P9.M C99 9 .Iw .
ALI

i~.1

*V*l r, I'~' N,~~9

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other for checking wood frame structures.

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This crude instrument is a homemade model
unlike any found during research.
-It checks not only for vertical surfaces,
but also horizontal surfaces.
-The plummet hangs with its bottom point
directly over a scored line in the wood
when perfectly vertical or horizontal.
-This concept was implemented by the Romans
and was called a libella.

* I

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 64
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... P. IdU
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
*fAliJW1 Tnf-Pvwm2+4n -Fvfenm Tar rvnm

PRIMARY FUNCTION: In framing buildings,
to check for true verticals and horizontal,
suifages.. Also for accurately hanging doors

PLUMMET LEVEL

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other checking levelness

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
The Spirit Level was apparently introduced
sometime between 1830 and 1840 and was so
named since the glass tube was filled with
alcohol. The glass tube, slightly curved,
was set in a finished stock and usually pro-
tected from damage by a brass plate. The tube
was filled with the liquid with only one small
air bubble remaining. When the level was per-
fectly horizontal or vertical, depending on
whether it was made for the former or the
latter, the bubble moved to the center, either
between two marks, centered on one mark, or
both. 14-132, 11-68

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 66
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 72
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 135
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHTWD*

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
horizontal.

To check for a true

SPIRIT LEVEL

i~z,

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

D --4m~n

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___ boring__ sawing___ hammering__
measuring .shaping & finishing
other checking for true horizontals & vertica

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-This is a more specialized form of spirit
level. Side views are visible for using
at eye-level or above. A small circular
hole in the stock has been fitted with
another tube to check vertical surfaces.
At each end of this level are spring-loaded
sights used to check the levelness across
a foundation or floors. Brass end plates
which house the sights also protect the
ends of the stock from damage.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 66
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 72
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 175
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
*"ITD. nfnfnms+4nn /MFvsnm Todi rvnm

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Can be used either
horizontally or vertically.

SPIRIT LEVEL

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring_ sawing__ hammering .
measuring shaping & finishing *"
otherfor-MsabDlshnlng a true vertTcal. "

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-The word "plum" comes from the Latin word
for lead.
-The one shown is of lead with a steel tip
and is suspended from the waxed cotton string
which when not in use is stored on the
wood spool.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 54-57
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 72
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 179
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To establish a true vertica
by which the carpenter can erect frame-
work, joists and corner overhangs. PLUMB-BOB, LINE AND SPOOL

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other storing chalklines

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Good for laying out locations for interior
partitions.
-Used for a reference line when hewing a
beam from a log.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 56
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 45
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 74
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 46
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
ATHWr

PRIMARY FUNCTION: The chalk line, when
pulled taut and snapped, left a straight
line.

CHALK LINE REEL

'rrrdF:;WI'A?.., ,

V %

ii '4

,Vf

.14.

Jt.

N' MA
.1'cr
I.,Y.

Alt

r ju

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing___ hammering X
measuring__ shaping & finishing
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-It is the heaviest of the hammers, sometimes
confused with the beetle or maul which are
used in driving wedges into splitting logs.
The commander, however, is too heavy and
cumbersome to be used for this purpose.
-The head can simply be made by cutting
a section of a log (about 50 lbs.). The
example shows was made by Ted Crom at
the site of his guest cottage (originally
circa 1830).
-Made to be used with two hands.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters'. Tools. p. 171
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 141
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 84

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
mortise and tennon
positions in heavy

To drive newly made
joints into their final
wooden framework.

THE COMMANDER

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering X
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-One handed hammer with wood head and haft.
Since the hafts of the chisels struck by
the mallet, are of wood, the head of the
mallet is also of wood to prevent a split-
ting of the hafts. The head has a striking
face at both ends. Mallet "A" is a 19th
century model and "B" was made from a piece
of a 3 x 3 stud, at the site, by Ted Crom.
-Wedges driven in hold the head in place.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 170
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 78
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 140
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To drive woodworking
chisels.

THE CARPENTERS" MALLET

___

a

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering X
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This metal-headed tool dates back to the
early Romans, and was used as it presently
is.. Little changed in design has been
implemented since then.
-The "bell-face" portion of the head was
slightly rounded to prevent the damaging
of the wood into which the nail was
driven.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 266
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 78
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 105
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
For driving and removing
nails.

ADZE EYE, BELL FACE, CLAW HAMMER

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: .
chopping boring__ sawing__ hammering IoH '
measuring shaping & finishing ._...
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: ,
-This is a crude implement, quite often
replaced, since the wood of the striking
surface was quickly damaged by the metal
backside of the froe.
-It could be made from just a small log
or from a piece of stock, inserted in a
haft, as in the photograph provided.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
, *11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 14
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. P. ]
'.13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 148
-15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools p. 32
OTHER: .

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For striking the back
Side of the froe to help drive it through

FRUE MPLLtl UK 6LU5

the wood.

1 m

r -i ,

8.; *. .. '''* ~

:I

..... 71.

V
IL

j-'J*vt

y4

QL A
jf
Ar A16
A

ve
4a
P 9%

4CL
up

IJ

ilk el.

Ap
IL -.3, A'. iA.

,* *

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering___
measuring__ shaping & finishing X
other

S""PHOTOGRAPH

PHOTOGRAPH y
-.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 164
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 79
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 49, 50
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used for removing heavy
shavings of wood in making large mortises.
Used for other miscellaneous jobs.

FTRMFR(fnrmina) CHTSEL (Bench Chisel1

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: i:.. ,"
chopping boring sawing_ hammering "
measuring shaping & finishing i, ..
other ,.- -

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (socKE.T iq-k4 ow-et-i u

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. (4
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... 9, 1 ,
15. Old Ways of'Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: U--- "Cor- v"-4 r 'O N1w

I "~ o4$-JU- < th< M^ l ^ ^ M ^ MteFE ^ )OI^

6CZ-ek

ELt (rIM13CR WlIjO

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishingX
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-(Bevel-Edge Socket Firmer Chisel)
(see previous firmer chisel)

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 164
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 79
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 49. 50
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Miscellaneous heavy
wood shaping.

FIRMER formingq) CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing)
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: VB.ve --eJ.- ,K,.S F'Ae,

V L.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
-'-11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. _,
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mds.
^ 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p,"7
.14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices ..... -, 4 so
15. Old Ways of Wdrking Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: >i e l a -.,'(1
^(^V/ ~os^ ^^a'V ^<

F1 tM CQAM2 2C3C 1CI4 EL Wu4 ( C4CAei

bi41 ege

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishingX
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Socket framing chisel)
-This tool is very similar in appearance
to the firmer chisel, however, it is
heavier and the bezel is at a greater
angle.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 79
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 54
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used in heavy wood frame
construction.

FRAMING CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
measuring_ shaping & finishing.
other
PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: C cc< 'U,, CA-l\A$-)

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. ____
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p.179
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... 4
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: -e. v -e) /
%2.A&)\C (C} A) AA u

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing hammering___.-' ..
measuring shaping & finishing X 4^"i.
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Bevel Edge Paring Chisel with
Offset Tang)
-Paring chisels are not meant to be used
with a mallet, only arm and shoulder power.
-Used after the framing and firmer chisels
to smooth out the work.
-Cutting edge is kept very sharp.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 166
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.p. 9
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.p. 79
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 5 g, 52
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To finish smoothing out a
piece of work after the other chisels. Its
the last to be used and produces the smooth- h
^.. finish PARING CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishingX
other
PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: C-V: IS L -4>C i4 \A. I l-,

*- k?'*J ?-W. f, \

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES: .
S11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. I, G/
,12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.' !
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. 4
S14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p 5\ 1 7.,
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: fv, orvvoU o n
ouV- a>-Pi-^0^ ^^-<^c le yj^i^ ^^ -- ^ l ^ i
v.^lr_ ^- Tiiz ios- wo C7 u<-s ^ ^-& ^ | t -.^^pi..ff

1,j

kA C-Ale.7rL)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing X
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Shoulder Tang Paring
Chisel) (see previous paring chisel).

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 166
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. 9
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 79
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 51,52
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Finish Work.

PARING CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

--.--_-_---------_J--------------

~-_ ----

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing-_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (TDUU rlC '-[A.1^6r- ? l& CT

-,\vC.W

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. ___ p,
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. v,-h
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... S 1I,7
15. Old Ways of Vorking Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

- 5kma Jv

PRIMARY FUNCTION: iw, % % ock- .

(B~scA Ck~r7b~C)

`5l'L>tvjLya

'a ^c(T (Si:ML-

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing
other

Pt'z

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Shoulder tang pocket chisel)

-Named for the east with which the carpenter
could carry the tool.
-Blade was between 4 and 5" in length.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... P. 53
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For finish work.

POCKET CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

4 2,

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___ boring_ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing X
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Shoulder tang mortise chisel).
-Used exclusively for cutting deep mortises.
-Usually used in mortises where previous
augering had not been done. A mortise
can be cut more rapidly when holes are bored
within the lines of the laid out mortise
proceeding the use of the chisels.
-This chisel is easily recognized by its
almost square cross-section, deeply basiled
cutting edge and heavily shouldered tang
for heavy use.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 168
* 12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. P. 8
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. n 79
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Hand6ools and
Devices..... p_ 3
15. Old Ways of working Wood.
* 18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 53

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For cutting deep mortises.

MORTISE CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

.;f

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing) (
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (C 4>.t 2 <.C AAT--
lae Co-Ae e. A41 -6 i

-U ^-.llvy U-.eA ,, nci-4,.ei ,J-ev--
-t-e, ,or o.J otJ e.* li, -.,,c -e-'

-ee u .0- 4 e 41,C h I
TV ,G S

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. .
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. _. _
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. -,79
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... .,5_
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
k 18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
I'pTWD. *

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Ot z 4n ceep
v)r-1i^ Ge<

7 I,

X ,3, 'e

~I

/x^>E-r(^ CI c ,r -e^\ ClieKKLu

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring sawing__ hammering : =
measuring__ shaping & finishing X '
other ^ ,^ -

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Socket Oh.isel)
-Specialized tool to clean and cut smooth,
square corners of a mortise.
-Made to be used with a mallet.
-Projecting point at corner helps to
guide the penetration.
-Bezel on inside only.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 163
* 12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 18
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. 7__
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 53
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.'
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To clean corners of a
mortise.
CORNER CHISEL (Bench Chisel)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishingX_
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: g-g K&T c cy CC4;g4A)

- 6e, -N" -b Mbl -

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. .
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mu. p.1_
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. =.'!
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Hand'ools and
Devices'..... 5 -____
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
n(VPHW *

PRIMARY FUNCTION: 4o cleyn Coarne' .
on-f% a V- 1 .0 e

i

Coei^&t- Cq I-EL(C 'fec CCi< i-

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring_ shaping & finishing__)_
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Socket Deck Chisel)
-On the socket and haft: Pittitgptheohaft
into the socket necessarily needs to be
done with care to insure that the angle
of the inserted portion of the haft is as
close as possible to that of the socket so
that the load transmitted from the striking
mallet causes the wood to be in compression
as it is forced tighter into the socket.
A result that can otherwise occur would be
that of the cuff of the socket cutting
into and ultimately splitting the haft.
This cutting effect can be seen in the
example provided.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 55
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used in boat and ship-
building.

DECK CHISEL (Special Purpose)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing__-
other

V"u "i""

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

-Largest of all paring chisels.
-Blade is slightly curved towards the
beveled side.
-Use is similar to that of a large plane.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 166
* 12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.-p. 1
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 56
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
n1pnwr

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For smooth, finish work.

THE SLICK (Special Purpose)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping_ boring__ sawing___ hammering__
measuring__ shapirig & finishingz-
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. .((
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus! _.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... L. 5(0_
15. Old Ways of'Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: r ,wc.cA vsV
(4=>--c"k .

THE iCL^ 1 ^

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: -
chopping_ boring__ sawing hammering
measuring__ shap o ig & finishing X
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE: (Back Basiled Frimer Gauge)
-Concave in section, with bezel usually
on the outside of the blade. p..167
-The curve is called the sweep. .
-Paring gauge (not shown) has bezel on
inside.
-Three sweeps are available: flat, middle
and regular,-which is of the type shown.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 167
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 57, 58
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Cutting rounded grooves
or holes.
FIRMER GAUGE :-

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring___ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishingX
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This tool shows improper use of haft. The
mallet was used for a chisel not made to be
used with a striking force and as a result,
the tang and blade have been pushed through
the metal ferrule, splitting the haft.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and

Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early Americai
* urn.D. Daoennni nhca" %+inn

n Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Fine, small finishing
work.

WOODCARVER'S BEVEL EDGE PARING CHISEL

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing X
other

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

N

C~c~ ~

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: C ve I',S
L(bKj.l J*^^^^^^^^^^--^

,rs ~r~. IV

to ILI.t .7v s *..~ .

.-t~ IL. a* An,?i$&7S

ft vt~'
h. I .- 9t ..7.rL 17.

eIt-

0 t$t LE
-v7 7J A F -r

4. vk
*~~ *'J9 11 r. 1)jt~

446

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: H I^
chopping__ boring X sawing__ hammering /,
measuring shaping & finishing
other H

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-T-handle is fixed.
-Was made in a large variety of sizes,
lengths and bit points.
-Commonly used to bore holes through mortise
and tenon joints for trunnels.
-Also used to simplify work involved .in
making deep mortises.
-This bit is self-feeding and needs no
vertical force to bore. IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
* 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p. 178
.12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
* 18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 73
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For boring cylindrical.
holes in wood.
HAND AUGER (Spiral Auger)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring_ sawing_ hammering__
measuring shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:

- O4
*-* ( -'

^r4-'-(%k i^c) 4^ bc$rc

IMPORTANT VISUAL

-7

BASIC. SOURCES:
-4 11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools. p.\1
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mu&.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
^ 18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

U

PRIMARY FUNCTION: C l
1 \T\ >0 'A

FEATURES:

/ o\<. g -0- w1-*

+oQe- 00 '
)\? loe^.

\-\A~~ AL)OE~CSPIEZC*L ~UC7CF~F5

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___ boring X sawing__ hammering__
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-The removeable handle from the tang of the
auger allows the carpenter to use the one
handle for many different size augers, pro-
viding ease of storage for his equipment.
-The handle is tightened with a butterfly
nut.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
*11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.178
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
* 18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p 73
nTTWI*

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
holes in wood.

For boring cylindrical

r I. LIT I I T lr

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR: |
chopping__ boring X_ sawing__' hammering___l'
measuring_ shaping & finishing B
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Has fixed wood handle.
-Small auger at the tip to start the hole,
but one long cutting edge for the actual
tapering.
-This tool was probably used by the wheel-
wright for boring tapering axle holes in
wood hubs for wagon wheel.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 74,77
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: For cutting a
tapering hole.
TAPFR AIIJFR

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___boring. sawing___ hanm
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

PHOTOGRAPH

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.
OTHER:

PRIMARY FUNCTION: O T a b 6-

A)

BASICALLY THIS TOO, IS USED FOR:
chopping boringA sawing hammering.__
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
These cutting and boring tools were all made
to be used with the bit brace or bit stock.
E. continued this bit is not self feeding
and is not used for deep holes.
F. Countersink gimlet bit bores a hole
which specifically precedes a wood screw
of the same size, with the counter sunk
head flush with the surface.
G. Expansive bit adjustable to accommodate
various size holes.
H. Taper bit a small tapering bit used to
tap barrels. Cuts in either direction.

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 38
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 81
*14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p -. -4
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p 19
ATiUrD

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:
A. Single channel auger with double spur, and
long twist, and a threaded feed screw. Size
of bit is stamped on the end of the tang
by 16ths of an inch. The bit shows is a
.12 or 12/16" in diameter.
B. Double channel auger this has two channel!
through which the shavings move.
C. Spoon Bit concave gauge shaped bit; cut
in both directions.
D. Bell hangers' twist bit only example
available to show the twist bit. Very simi:
lar in appearance to the common metal twist
bit, but has a much steeper-angled cutting
point, for penetrating wood.
E. The Center Bit revolves around the central
pivot pin boring the hole with one cutting
edge, called the router.

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Used with a brace to
bore holes.

VARIOUS BITS

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring X sawing__ hammering_
measuring___ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Dates back to the 15th century.
-This device is used with two hands and is
cranked in a clockwise direction in a
continuous motion. Though quicker than the
hand auger, it lacks the torqueing
capability of the auger and is thus. used
for smaller work.
-This is the least expensive of the 3 braces
shown.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus. p. 40-4
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 80
*(14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 35
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
* 18. A Museum of Early American Tools.p. 78-81
^M~TTIM"l

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To hold a boring bit
in place for continuous boring.

BIT STOCK (1)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping___ boring X sawing__ hanm
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

nering__

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Although this stock is more expensive
than the stock no. 1, its function is
the same. The difference lies in the
inlaid brass reinforcing plates on this
stock.

I'.;

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC.SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
* 12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.p. 40-43
* 13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. p. 80
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 35.
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
* 18. A Museum of Early American Tools. P. 78-81

PRIMARY FUNCTION: Tb.hold a boring bit in
place for continuous boring.

BIT STOCK (2)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring__ sawing__ hammering
measuring__ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-This is the most expensive bit brace ever
made and this same model was exhibited at
the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia,
1876.
-The wood is ebony and is heavily framed
in brass.
-It is called the "ultimata," and truly is
a precision tool.

J

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC. SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
*12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.p. 4-43
*13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue. P AQ
* 14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices..... p. 35
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
*18. A Museum of Early American Tools. p. 7R81
rn.Tm t'l .

PRIMARY FUNCTION: To hold a bit in place
for continuous boring.

BIT STOCK (3)

BASICALLY THIS TOOL IS USED FOR:
chopping__ boring X sawing__ hammering_
measuring_ shaping & finishing__
other

GENERAL INFORMATION, HISTORICAL AND/OR
DESCRIPTIVE:
-Hexagonal in section, tis iron frame
is rather unusual.

IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES:

BASIC SOURCES:
11. Ancient Carpenters' Tools.
12. Woodworking Tools @ Shelburne Mus.
13. 1897 Sears Roebuck Catalogue.
14. Encyclopedia of Woodworking Handtools and
Devices.....
15. Old Ways of Working Wood.
18. A Museum of Early American Tools.

PRIMARY FUNCTION:
boring holes

Holds bit in place for

BIT BRACE

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