Thread: Early American Straights

We all know about the golden age of American straight razors in the early to mid 20th century, Genco, Union, Case, etc. But what about the 19th century? Of course most cutlery in at this time was coming in from England but what, if any domestic razor manufacture was there in this time and does anyone have any examples of such?

Originally Posted by thp001

We all know about the golden age of American straight razors in the early to mid 20th century, Genco, Union, Case, etc. But what about the 19th century? Of course most cutlery in at this time was coming in from England but what, if any domestic razor manufacture was there in this time and does anyone have any examples of such?

How about a Northfield Rattler, from Northfield Connecticut. That's the earliest I have, that I'm aware of.

I'm picking up on a theme. OP: "Does anyone have a...". Outback: "yep".

I have that same razor. Northfield started business in 1858. I think this Ramapo is my earliest American razor. Wm. Gilchrist had a workshop in Ramapo N.J. that burned down in 1853 so the razor is at least that old.

I also have a Wm Gilchrist, from Jersey City.

A Holley from Lakeville, Conn. About the same time period, they started business in 1854.

Here is an oldie made by Rocus Heinisch WAY back when. A razor from a scissormaker!



Heinisch was an innovative scissor-maker who gave rise to Wiss and was responsible for hiring Johnathan Turner (of Turner and Colishaw and Torrey fame) away from Wostenholm. I place this thing 1830's-40's
http://jwissandsons.com/bios/EarlyTo...ersChapter.pdf
https://sharprazorpalace.com/razors/...ml#post1557270