Thread: Grandfather's razor

When my grandfather passed away some time back, my mother was going through his belongings and came upon a straight razor. This surprises all of us. We have never seen him use it and she didn't even know he had it so we don't know anything about how it came to be in his possession.

I'm hoping to get a little information on it. First, the box reads Garland Cutlery Co. Germany and Price $3.00

One side of the shaft says: Blue Steel M.I. Germany

The other side says: Fall River Loan Co. 99 Pleasant Str

Now, not far from where I live is Fall River Massachusetts but a Google search on Fall River Loan Co. produced nothing of value.

Additionally, I can't seem to find Pleasant Street on a Fall River map

The only thing I can think of is that this was a prior generation's bank toaster. You know: open a checking account with us today and receive a free toaster as a thank you gift.

I have pictures of the razor but I need to adjust the size before I can post them but you wouldn't see the writing that I just typed out.

Physical condition is pretty rough, in my inexperienced opinion. I'm not sure I want to restore it as it might take a little history out of the thing.

I don't claim to be an expert, you are fortunate that others who can frequent the forum and will doubtless respond though.

I am under the impression that if you have any active corrosion you would be well advised to have it removed. Once rust gets a toe hold it will spread. If you get any rust removed and oil the blade you wouldn't have to use it or have it honed but you could ensure the blade will last for a great time to come.

Congratulations on getting your grandfathers razor by the way.
My grandfather was a barber and I inherited his razor but due to celluloid rot the blade and handle were completely destroyed (turned to dust). I was able to identify the make/model and obtain a duplicate though which is still nice but certainly no replacement for a true heirloom.

Originally Posted by Geoff

I don't claim to be an expert, you are fortunate that others who can frequent the forum and will doubtless respond though.

I am under the impression that if you have any active corrosion you would be well advised to have it removed. Once rust gets a toe hold it will spread. If you get any rust removed and oil the blade you wouldn't have to use it or have it honed but you could ensure the blade will last for a great time to come.

Congratulations on getting your grandfathers razor by the way.
My grandfather was a barber and I inherited his razor but due to celluloid rot the blade and handle were completely destroyed (turned to dust). I was able to identify the make/model and obtain a duplicate though which is still nice but certainly no replacement for a true heirloom.

Geoff,

Sorry to hear about your grandfather's razor.

You make a good point that I hadn't thought of in that I should have the rust removed and the blade oiled at the very least. I don't dare try it though so I will have to get someone to do it for me.

Thanks for the advice

Obviously this is a personal choice - I know that I would try my best (or get a true meister) to restore it and use it. It would be much more important and enjoyable to me to have as a user vs. a historical piece

Cheers
Ivo

Originally Posted by izlat

It would be much more important and enjoyable to me to have as a user vs. a historical piece

I'm with Ivo on this one. If it can be made to shave, I'd make it shave.

The other side of the coin is quite different. If it's a collectible (which I doubt) leaving the rust and tarnish in place would increase, not decrease the value in the case of most antiques. Proof of age.

X

Originally Posted by izlat

Obviously this is a personal choice - I know that I would try my best (or get a true meister) to restore it and use it. It would be much more important and enjoyable to me to have as a user vs. a historical piece

Cheers
Ivo

Originally Posted by xman

I'm with Ivo on this one. If it can be made to shave, I'd make it shave.

The other side of the coin is quite different. If it's a collectible (which I doubt) leaving the rust and tarnish in place would increase, not decrease the value in the case of most antiques. Proof of age.

X

I would normally agree with both of you but...it is a much lighter razor than I like and I know I wouldn't use it for that reason. Plus, were I to damage one of my razors, no sentimental loss. To damage this one would be painful as it being my grandfather's makes it irreplaceable.

I think you're right X. It is not a collector's piece so any historical value is solely in my eyes which, according to my eye doctor, shows the beginning stages of glaucoma

I had my great grandfather's straight restored by Robert Keys (ALTIMA55). He did a great job and charged 35.00.

Wow,

I'm beginning to think I'm committing some sort of straight razor heresy here

We're just hardcore shavers and get a perverse pleasure out of seeing these old blades live again is all. It's your blade, your heirloom and you should do what your heart tells you.

X

OK, after much thought, I can see the benefit of restoring my grandfather's razor. So, at some point, I will post before/after pictures.