Thread: Unusual J Rodgers Congress Razor

Hi folks,
I acquired this last week off the bay. I took a chance because the pics were substandard. Turns out to be an interesting razor but I am having a hard time determining any details. I have scoured the web and have repeatedly found a J Rodgers Congress Pocket knife but no reference to straight razors. I believe the Congress knife is a particular style with a particular shape.
What do you guys think in terms of dating this razor. I am inclined to believe 1860's/ 1870's due to the pins but maybe it is earlier. I also have a suspicion that it may have been reground due to the inconsistent line where the spine reads "Congress Razor". Then again, maybe the craftsman lost their concentration. Anyway, if anyone has seen one of these or knows any more please share. Thank you in advance!

I believe these were largely mid-century. Several other manufacturers made razors with that slogan, but that’s the first I’ve seen from Rodgers. Plus, Rodgers razors with fancy pressed horn scales are somewhat more uncommon than other manufacturers for some reason.

It’s hard to say for sure if that’s reground, heavily honed, or just a bit wacky from the factory — it happened, even from Rodgers.

Thanks for your input. I am guessing that this razor was marketed for the U.S crowd.

Originally Posted by Moonbow

Thanks for your input. I am guessing that this razor was marketed for the U.S crowd.

That seems like a very safe bet.