Old George Wostenholm I-XL Belt Buckle

[engine46]

Well, it isn't a straight or a knife but it does have to do with a well known blade maker, an Old George Wostenholm I-XL Belt Buckle.The IXL trademark was assigned to George Wostenholm in 1781. The name didn’t become known to American until about 1833. They claim to have supplied Bowie with knives for him and his friends until Bowie died in battle. It’s also rumored, he was found with a Wostenholm on his person at the time of death but that is only a rumor. This buckle surely shows the quality of the I-XL name. It was made for the United States as the buckle depicts an eagle and the American flag. The date of production is unknown but the flag only show 13 stars which would reflect the 13 colonies. This flag was used until 1795 when the stars were changed from 13 to 15. Its in excellent condition. The engravings are all still clearly visible. Great piece of Americana, although it was made in Europe. It was made for a very wide belt, about 3" which is what those colonists wore way back then!