From the biggest of buildings to the smallest of safes, everything has a lock and a key. Without a lock and key, our valuable items are at high risk from burglary and our homes from break-ins. That is why we lock everything away- even our computers with passwords and our vehicles with complex locking mechanisms.
We use locks and keys every day but do we know anything of them? Here are some facts from our knowledgeable locksmith company that cast a light on locks and keys.
Interesting facts about locks and keys
Ancient locks
The earliest locks were crafted in Egypt and Babylon 4000 years ago. These fist locks were wooden-bolt locks with pin tumblers.
In Rome, the wealthy wore their keys as status symbols. Locks were also common in China and Greece.
Earliest security measures
In ancient times, sailors used to secure their belongings tying them with ropes and knotting them.
Lock inventors
In 1778, Robert Barron invented the first double-acting tumbler lock. The first tumbler lock was created by Linus Yale in 1848. James Sargent, an American Locksmith, invented the first combination lock in 1857.
Key keeper
In Medieval times, people used to entrust the keys of their home to a key keeper. This special guard was responsible for the key security of all the keys.
Chinese Locks
In ancient China, only the rich and noble could afford locks. Emperors had locks made in animal shapes like fish, goat, etc.
Innovations in lock mechanism and design
The 19th century brought in many revolutionary changes in the locksmith industry. People created new lock and key designs to protect their homes and offices from burglar activity.
Key duplicating
Until the year 1917, nobody knew of key duplication. It was in this year the first duplicate key was made using a wheel to cut the key blank.
Lock collection and Lock Museum
Many people have the unique habit of collecting locks as a hobby. They collect unusual locks like prison locks, commando locks, or military locks, intricate puzzle locks, time locks, etc.
The John Mossman Lock Museum in New York houses the world’s largest collection of locks. There are about 370 locks from Egyptian wood locks to modern smart locks and even bank or vault locks too.
Fort Knox changes code daily
Fort Knox in Kentucky is where the U.S. gold reserves lie. Every day, the access code is changed on the smart locks at Fort Knox making it the most secure building in the world.
Traditional locks
Did you know that traditional locks were handmade? Yes, a trusted home locksmith was called to customize the traditional lock as per the owner’s need and request.
Padlock
The word padlock came into origin in the 15th century. It was coined from the 2 English words pad and lock.
Complex locks resist picking
If you have a complex lock, it must resist picking. A commando lock has nearly 10 pins for security to resist bumping and picking.
Bird picking
While complex locks resist picking, even a bird can pick some simple locks! In 2014, a parrot called Magic made her way out of her age by picking 2 padlocks!
Apprenticeship
Every locksmith has to undergo a period of training as an apprenticeship in order to become a skilled locksmith or security expert.
Certified Locksmith Service
To safeguard your home or office, always engage a certified locksmith. These professionals have a license from the Association of Locksmiths of America (ALOA). They are highly skilled in handling all types of locks. Their team includes all types of locksmiths- residential locksmiths, commercial locksmiths, auto locksmiths, and even forensic locksmiths. Their locksmith service is a mobile service offering round-the-clock service throughout the week.
Call an authorized locksmith to care for tour complete lock and key needs. Be it lock installation, lock and key repair, or key duplication, these professionals can be trusted for their confidential customer service. Teds Locksmith offers trusted locksmith services in Matthews and surrounding areas. Give us a phone call if you need security assistance. Trust Teds Locksmith today!
Teddy Poulos, the founder and CEO of Teds Locksmith Service – Matthews, is a highly regarded figure in the locksmith industry, renowned for his expertise and unwavering dedication to providing top-quality service. Originally from Matthews, North Carolina, Teddy’s educational background in the locksmith industry has provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the locksmithing field. Since 2015, Teddy has established himself as a trusted authority in locksmith services, earning the respect and loyalty of clients throughout Matthews and beyond. His commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and fair pricing has been instrumental in making Teds Locksmith Service – Matthews a household name in the region. Teddy’s passion for innovation and his unwavering dedication to ensuring the security and safety of his clients continue to drive the success of his company, solidifying Teds Locksmith Service – Matthews as a trusted and reliable choice for all locksmithing needs.