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 The
sign mostly used by the locksmith was the key
Seventeenth and 18th century England was an endless vista of
colourful signboards hanging from shops and banking houses along
narrow streets. As tradesmen competed with each other for better and
more distinctive identification for their place of business.
Locksmiths were very much part of Medieval society. Although most
homes had little more than an internal wooden slide lock on the
insides, Locksmiths became important with the developments and
security of castles.
An intricate lock that resisted the efforts of picking or tampering
was soon highly valued. Criminals and the residents of dungeons
often escaped rather easily when not secured with locks or shackles.
To maintain security Locksmiths were trained in guilds and the
secrets of their craft were kept highly guarded.
Signs Bookseller
Perfumer
Locksmith Apothecary
Barber Shoemaker
Grocer Pawn
Broker Inn
Sign Meanings |
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