The history and evolution of the lock spans centuries. Knowing few others share our lifelong passion for the topic of locks and keys, we’ve pulled out some interesting facts about the history and evolution of these essential security tools.
The Luxury of Locks
Believe it or not, there was a time when locks were a luxury reserved for the elite. Every day, we rely on keys and locks without a second thought, yet in ancient times, only the wealthiest members of society could afford them. As locksmiths, we find it remarkable how something once exclusive has become an everyday necessity.
Ornate Locks in Ancient China
In Ancient China, locks were not just functional – they were works of art. Emperors and nobles commissioned ornate padlocks designed to resemble animals like goats and fish. These locks were as much about displaying wealth and status as they were about security.
Viking Women and Their Keys
In Viking culture, married women were the designated keepers of family keys, often showcasing their status by sewing keys onto their dresses as a symbol of power.
The Allure of Collecting Locks and Keys
Many enthusiasts find old keys and locks captivating, leading to a vibrant collecting community. Collectible items include prison locks, military keys, and complex puzzle locks.
Innovations in Lock Design
In the 19th century, locksmiths worked tirelessly to create more secure locks in response to rising theft. Their innovations led to designs that are still widely used by locksmiths today.
Fort Knox’s Ever-Changing Codes
Fort Knox, home to a large portion of the United States’ gold reserves, is one of the most secure buildings globally. To access the premises, staff must enter codes that change daily.
Birds as Lock Pickers
In a remarkable 2014 incident, a parrot named Magic escaped from his cage by successfully picking two padlocks!
Ancient Locks from 4,000 Years Ago
One of the oldest known locks, believed to date back over 4,000 years, was found in a cave in Ancient Egypt. Many historians credit the ancient Egyptians with the invention of locks.
Knots as Early Security Measures
Sailors commonly used knots in ropes to secure their belongings, serving as an early method of tamper-proofing.
The Craft of Locksmithing
Locks in ancient times were not only installed but also meticulously handcrafted by locksmiths, tailored for specific needs.
Medieval Key Keepers
In many medieval towns, residents entrusted a designated key keeper with all their keys, relying on this guard for access to their homes.
Wooden Locks of the Past
While modern locks are predominantly metal, ancient locks were often crafted from wood, making them easier to bypass compared to today’s standards.
The Dominance of House Keys
Today, house keys are the most common type of key, closely followed by car keys.
The Advent of Key Duplication
Until 1917, keys were unique to each lock. That year marked the introduction of key duplication, where a wheel was used to shape a blank key to match the original.
The First Combination Lock
James Sargent, an American locksmith from Vermont, invented the first combination lock in 1857. He later founded Sargent and Greenleaf, a lock manufacturing company that still operates today.
The Ceremony of the Keys
Each night at the Tower of London, the Ceremony of the Keys takes place, where guards perform a ritual to lock the tower doors.
Continuing the Tradition
At Sandy Springs Locksmith, we’re proud to continue this rich tradition of locksmithing in Metro Atlanta. Our experienced team combines centuries-old knowledge with cutting-edge technology to provide top-notch security solutions for homes and businesses.
Contact Sandy Springs Locksmith for all your locksmith needs, and feel free to ask us about the fascinating history behind the locks we work with every day!