MLA EXPO REVIEW
ordinary double bitted key but closer inspection reveals the key bits are separate segments . Once the key is inserted into the conventional looking keyhole the lock itself controls these segments in a rotational manner causing them to fan-out within the lock ; this feature makes the key impossible to copy . We also had on display various other Kromer locks such as the Protector and Novum factory fretted versions allowing the principles to be observed . Another German lock which caused a lot of interest was the Arnheim ‘ Coliseum ’; we had made an acrylic top cap for it allowing its beautiful motion to be observed . The ‘ Coliseum ’ levers , as the key is turned , first move horizontally left to right and then , as the key is further turned , vertically up and down and all in a lock that is completely spring-less ; it ’ s a nice motion to watch .
The George Price cabinet contained several of his production locks but in addition two locks that were originally part of South Kensington Museum lock display ( today it ’ s called the Science Museum ). Price had produced a number of locks fretted or with caps removed to demonstrate his innovative ‘ Ne Plus Ultra ’ principles . Our collection now has two of these locks , one a small drawer lock and the other a very large rim deadlock . There are many fans of George Price and his innovative ideas and practical solutions ; many would place him in the top tier of English safe makers . The Science Museum no longer has a lock gallery so the opportunity for visitors to see these original display items was well received .
The Global Catalogue we compile and some sample Victorian ledgers were also on the reading podium . All artefacts and archive items are recorded in the
One of the smaller locks donated to the South Kensington Museum by George Price in the 1850 ’ s and now in the History of Locks Museum collection .
The Arnheim ‘ Coliseum ’ lock ; completely springless and fascinating to watch the action as the key is turned .
catalogue which is continuously updated with additional information as it ’ s learnt . In the case of the Victorian lock / safe makers ledgers ( of which there are hundreds !) we are gradually deciphering handwriting . In fact the archive is now probably the largest there is on the subject anywhere ; in addition to books , catalogues and ledgers there are countless bills of sale , letters , leaflets , technical documents in what we have called ‘ The Dowson Files ’ after a significant donation of documents meticulously presented to which we have / are merging our own similar items . Visitors to the show had the opportunity to see a representation and scope of our archive items . It ’ s a good opportunity to remind everybody that the archive is not only paperwork , it includes all sorts of media such as microfiche , film , tapes ( both video and sound and CDs . This aspect of the show was particularly well received and is likely to be further enhanced at the next show .
Finally I would like to thank everybody that brought things to add to the collection . Basil Shannon for instance ; struggling on the flight from Ireland with a nice early Chubb cash box and a set of pristine video tapes of the Harry Miller Collection .
And this , the largest , measuring some 305mm ( plus bolt throw ) and weighing over 7kg . Although both locks incorporate Price ’ s anti-pressure principle the rim lock shows it more clearly .
Bode Panzer Tangential lock with its multi-faceted , cyanide hardened key ; typically used on WWII German battleships and submarines , they were also used on high ranking officers safes ; two were fitted to the German Foreign Ministers safe just before the war .
I would also like to thank those exhibitors at the show that continue to provide both artefacts and paperwork to add to the reference collection and archive . Please check our web site www . historyoflocks . com / acknowledgements for a fuller list of contributors .
By chance we had on the stand a John Tann safe immaculately restored which caused great interest . Insafe had brought it to the show and didn ’ t have room on their own stand and asked if we would like to display it ; the answer was we most definitely would – thank you Insafe . For all those that asked about its age the serial number stamped on the bolt resolves it to 21st September 1919 and was made by Tann ’ s locksmith ‘ Kent ’ ( sorry the registers at this time only record surnames ) and the price was £ 8-16s-0d . This idea of guest exhibitors is one we are likely to develop and adopt in future EXPO ’ s with interest already expressed so do advise if you want to know more . From our perspective the show was a great success and we are already working to a bigger and better display for EXPO23 .
So , what a show that was ; hope to see you all again in 2023 ( It ’ s surprising how quick they come around ).
Brian Morland , curator of the MLA Heritage Room , HoL Archive and the HoL Heritage Collection of Locks and Keys , welcomes comments and corrections on historical aspects of locks and keys . Brian can be contacted by email : brian @ emorlands . com
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