Rail Relics Today - Railroad Locks  

Atlantic Coast Line Railroad

ACL signal dept. brass lock set

Lock Set: 1      Price: $85.00

For Sale

This sharp looking "Corbin" lock is like new! Lock opens and locks great. A very nice set!

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Ann Arbor Railroad

Ann Arbor steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 2      Price: $135.00 $125.00

For Sale

A nice looking "Adlake" Ann Arbor steel switch lock. The initials "AA RR" are clearly stamped on the backside. Although it's missing it's chain, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Ann Arbor brass key make a great pair!

History

The Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe Railway (reporting mark ATSF), often abbreviated as Santa Fe or AT&SF, was one of the larger railroads in the United States. Chartered in February 1859, the railroad reached the Kansas-Colorado border in 1873 and Pueblo, Colorado, in 1876. To create a demand for its services, the railroad set up real estate offices and sold farm land from the land grants that it was awarded by Congress. Despite the name, its main line never served Santa Fe, New Mexico, as the terrain was too difficult; the town ultimately was reached by a branch line from Lamy. The railroad officially ceased operations on December 31, 1996, when it merged with the Burlington Northern Railroad to form the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway.

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Atlanta & West Point,
Western Ry of Alabama,
& Georgia Railroad

AWP-WA-GA steel switch lock & brass key

Lock Set: 3     Price: $175.00 $150.00

For Sale

A West Point Route steel switch lock. A boast of it's proud southern heritage, the lock is stamped with the Georgia's legacy railroads. "Adlake" forged and stamped "AWP-WA-GA RR." it's in good condition and still has the original spike chain. The drop cover has good spring action, and unlock and latch with ease. A great matching Adlake key to match!

History

The West Point Route was a fondly remembered southern system which connected Atlanta with Montgomery, Alabama. The name itself was actually a marketing term only used by the Atlanta & West Point (A&WP) and Western Railway of Alabama (WRoA). The two companies met at West Point, Georgia, and for many years were under the Georgia Railroad & Banking Company's control, which connected Atlanta with Augusta and Macon. All three got their start handling agricultural-related traffic, transitioned to manufacturing and merchandise, and then spent later years as successful bridge lines. From an early period they were jointly owned by the Louisville & Nashville and Atlantic Coast Line, remaining subsidiaries until the 1980s. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

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Atlanta & West Point Railroad

A&WP brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 5      Price: $165.00

For Sale

Atlanta & West Point cast brass switch lock. The lock is in excellent condition, and over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark brown patina, which enhances the beauty of the it. Forged by the "J.H. Climax Co", the front of the hasp is clearly stamped "A&WP." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The brass key is not the original but it works well with the lock. A great looking lock set!

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Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway

AT&SF circa 1958 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 7      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A "Slaymaker" Santa Fe steel switch lock. The initials "AT&SF RY S" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp, and the year "1958" is stamped the backside. Still sporting its original spike chain, the brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. In good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Santa Fe brass key make a nice set!

History

The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway (reporting mark ATSF), often abbreviated as Santa Fe or AT&SF, was one of the larger railroads in the United States. Chartered in February 1859, the railroad reached the Kansas-Colorado border in 1873 and Pueblo, Colorado, in 1876. To create a demand for its services, the railroad set up real estate offices and sold farm land from the land grants that it was awarded by Congress. Despite the name, its main line never served Santa Fe, New Mexico, as the terrain was too difficult; the town ultimately was reached by a branch line from Lamy. The railroad officially ceased operations on December 31, 1996, when it merged with the Burlington Northern Railroad to form the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway.

1958 Highlights

The first successful American satellite, Explorer 1, is launched into orbit. Ruth Carol Taylor is the first African American woman hired as a flight attendant. Working for Mohawk Airlines, her career lasts only six months, due to another discriminatory barrier - the airline's ban on married flight attendants. Unemployment in Detroit reaches 20%, marking the height of the Recession of 1958 in the United States. The plastic hula hoop is first marketed. Have Gun Will Travel debuts on American radio.

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Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway

AT&SF steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 8      Price: $100.00

For Sale

Another sharp looking Santa Fe steel switch lock. The previous owner polished it up real nice and it looks even better in your hand. "Adlake" forged, the initials "AT&SF S" are clearly stamped on the back. This SF lock not only looks great but works great too. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching brass Santa Fe key make a handsome pair!

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Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway

AT&SF steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 9      Price: $55.00

For Sale

Hello "Keyline" collectors, offering for sale is a AT&SF steel switch lock. The initials "AT&SF RY S" are clearly stamped on the back. In excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching AT&SF-Keyline brass key make a great pair.

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Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway

AT&SF circa 1948 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 10      Price: $175.00

For Sale

An attractive Santa Fe steel switch lock from the post WW II era. Mother Nature has blessed it with a superb dark patina. "Adlake" forged forged, the initials "AT&SF RY S" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "248" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1948." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The brass Santa Fe key make a perfect match! Looks great-works great!

1948 Highlights

The first monkey astronaut, Albert I, is launched into space from White Sands, New Mexico. Cold War: President Harry S. Truman issues the second peacetime military draft in the United States, amid increasing tensions with the Soviet Union (the first peacetime draft occurred in 1940 under President Roosevelt). The 1st tape recorder sold. Aug 16, Famed home-run slugger George Herman "Babe" Ruth died at age 53 in New York City. He is credited with turning baseball from a game of speed and skill to one of power.

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Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway

AT&SF general purpose steel/brass lock sets

Lock Set: 11    (2 available)    Price: $85.00

For Sale

A general purpose Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe steel lock and key set. The initials are clearly stamped "AT&SF" on the front hasp. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp unlocks and latches with ease. There is no visible foundry stamp, my guess would be "Yale" forged. This is a nice small lock that can be utilized in many ways around your home. Note: It's worth mentioning, that this style of lock, whatever railroad, these style of keys are the most difficult to find.

Set 2-front | Set 2-back

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O circa 1968 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 14     repair track     Price: $125.00

For Sale

A rare Baltimore & Ohio Repair Track steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, "B&O" is clearly stamped on the front of the hasp, and "RT 1968" on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Slaymaker Repair Track key make a great pair!

1968 Highlights

The year 1968 witnessed Sen. Robert F. Kennedy shot and critically wounded in Los Angeles hotel after winning California primary (June 5), dies June 6. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader, is slain in Memphis (April 4). On a lighter note, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In debuts on NBC. Album of the Year: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles.

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O circa 1978 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 15      Price: $85.00

For Sale

Like new! Offering for sale is a Baltimore & Ohio steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "B&O RR" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "78." Sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. This B&O lock is in excellent condition and includes the handsome B&O brass stamped key.

History

Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O), first steam-operated railway in the United States to be chartered as a common carrier of freight and passengers (1827). The B&O Railroad Company was established by Baltimore, Maryland, merchants to compete with New York merchants and their newly opened Erie Canal for trade to the west. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

1978 Highlights

The Japanese car imports account for half the US import market following the energy crisis and increase in fuel prices that fuels demand for economy cars. Cardinal Karol Wojtyla becomes Pope John Paul II. Illinois Bell Company introduces first ever Cellular Mobile Phone System. For collectors my age, Federal Reserve interest rates year end = 11.75%. Blast from the past; a 8 track player retails for $169.00. How many clunky 8 track tapes did your machine eat and spit out!

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O Local Station brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 16     Price: $195.00

For Sale

In the shadows of the other great lock masters in the U.S. at the time, the Dayton Manufacturing Company is often over-looked. When it came to quality, the foundry put out some great looking locks. Samuel Slaymaker seen that quality and purchased the comany in 1917.

To show-off some of that quality, here is a Baltimore & Ohio brass switch lock set, forged by the "Dayton Mfg. Co." The lock is in great shape, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper and it's a nice match. The matching local station key make this a perfect marriage.

Note: Although B&O local station locks (used at B&O terminus stations) are not rare, a well kept lock set like this one are still hard to find. Note: The Dayton Mfg. Co. of Ohio was absorbed by the Slaymaker lock Co. in 1917, which would classify this lock as a centenarian @100+ years old!

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O Local Station circa 1948 steel/brass switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 17      Price: $175.00

For Sale

Another B&O Local Station lock set, made by the company that bought out the Dayton Mfg. Co. "Slaymaker" forged, "B&O LSTA" is clearly stamped on the front hasp, and "1948" on the reverse. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Note: the double gauged thick spike chain is the original and is the same style (see Slaymaker lock above) that Slaymaker used on the cast brass B&O locks - very nice! The Slaymaker brass key is also stamped B&OLSTA. When purchased, the chain keeper was rusted in place, after multiple oil lubes and some elbow work, the keeper will move either way.

1948 Highlights

The first monkey astronaut, Albert I, is launched into space from White Sands, New Mexico. Cold War: President Harry S. Truman issues the second peacetime military draft in the United States, amid increasing tensions with the Soviet Union (the first peacetime draft occurred in 1940 under President Roosevelt). The 1st tape recorder sold. Aug 16, Famed home-run slugger George Herman "Babe" Ruth died at age 53 in New York City. He is credited with turning baseball from a game of speed and skill to one of power.

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 18      Price: $145.00

For Sale

A little more beat-up than the lock above, is a Baltimore & Ohio cast-brass switch lock. Made by the same foundry mentioned above, the Dayton Mfg. Co. The lock has seen it's share of service, which makes it the relic that it is. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper and it's a great match! Also, like a myriad of old railroad locks, over years of use, the release pin wears down, and the key won't "pop the hasp" open. Pulling up on the hasp while you turn the key is one fix, and the most common. As it happens, the key bit can be worn down too. Using a later-newer key is sometimes another remedy, which is what I've done here, pairing up an old timer with a stronger key bit. As stated above, the Slaymaker Co. bought out the Dayton Mfg. Co. in 1917, which makes this B&O lock 105+ years old too. A great looking relic

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O circa 1963 brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 19      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

A real beauty is this Baltimore & Ohio brass switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, "B&O RR" is clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "163" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged sometime during the "first quarter of 1963." The spring drop has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has a fine dark brown patina and its original spike chain. I paired the lock up with a very nice B&O-Slaymaker brass key.

1963 Highlights

A tragic day in American history as news cameras captured the assassination of US President Kennedy on November 22nd. This sad day thrust Lyndon Johnson into the role of president and the murder two days later of Lee Harvey Oswald by nightclub owner Jack Ruby. The year 1963 saw the steam locomotive Flying Scotsman (British Railways No. 60103) makes its last scheduled run, before going into the hands of Alan Pegler for preservation. The long-running soap opera General Hospital debuts on ABC Television in the United States. The United States Postal Service launches the ZIP Code System.

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 20      Price: $125.00

For Sale

Here's a very attractive Baltimore & Ohio brass switch lock. Forged by the "Fraim/Slaymaker Co." it's two-tone yellow/gold patina stands out among the darker brass sets. Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has good spring action, the hasp latches with ease. Like a myriad of old railroad locks, over years of use, the release pin wears down, and the key won't "pop the hasp" open. Pulling up on the hasp (like this relic) while you turn the key is one fix, and the most common. As it happens, the key bit can be worn down too. Using a later-newer key is sometimes another remedy, which I did with this one. I paired this relic up with a later B&O key and it works great!

In 1843, Congress appropriated $30,000 for construction of an experimental 38-mile (61 km) telegraph line between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore along the B&O's right-of-way. The B&O approved the project with the agreement that the railroad would have free use of the line upon its completion. An impressive demonstration occurred on May 1, 1844, when news of the Whig Party's nomination of Henry Clay for U.S. President was telegraphed from the party's convention in Baltimore to the Capitol Building in Washington. On May 24, 1844, the line was officially opened as Samuel F. B. Morse sent his famous words "What hath God wrought" from the B&O's Mount Clare station to the Capitol Building along the wire.

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

B&O brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 21      Price: $175.00

For Sale

A very nice Baltimore & Ohio brass switch lock set. Regarded as one of the great lockmaster's of the 19th & 20th centuries, the lock is "Slaymaker" forged. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching B&O Slaymaker brass key make a handsome set!

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Baltimore & Ohio Railroad

Lock Set: 22 - B&O brass repair track switch lock set   Price: $95.00

For sale is a Baltimore & Ohio repair track brass switch lock. "Fraim" forged, "B&O RR" is clearly stamped on the frontside body, and Fraim stamped on the backside hasp. I believe this lock has seen little service, and has hardly been broken in. The drop cover has no spring action but is secure. The hasp needs help out of the cradle, and requires some extra pressure to latch. The lock has the original chain attached.

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Bangor & Aroostook Railroad

BAR steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 25      Price: $145.00

For Sale

Here is a switch lock set from the Bangor & Aroostook Railroad, a popular line with easterners. A fine set it is too, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. "BAR" is clearly stamped on the front of the hasp. There are no foundry stamp marks, my guess would be "Fraim" forged. The brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the locks' body. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The brass BAR stamped key is an original. A great addition for your collection.

History

The Bangor & Aroostook Railroad (reporting mark BAR) was a United States railroad company that brought rail service to Aroostook County in northern Maine. Brightly painted BAR box cars attracted national attention in the 1950s. First-generation diesel locomotives operated on BAR until they were museum pieces. The economic downturn of the 1980s coupled with the departure of heavy industry from northern Maine forced the railroad to seek a buyer and end operations in 2003.

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Burlington Northern Railroad

BN steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 27      Price: $115.00

For Sale

A great looking Burlington Northern steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "BN" are clearly stamped on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock is in excellent condition and has its original spike chain. The BN brass key is a great match!

History

The Burlington Northern Railroad was the product of a March 2, 1970, merger of four major railroads; the Great Northern Railway, Northern Pacific Railway, Spokane-Portland & Seattle Railway and the Chicago-Burlington & Quincy Railroad, as well as a few small jointly owned subsidiaries owned by the four. The merged railroad was initially going to be called "Great Northern Pacific & Burlington Lines."

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Burlington Route Railroad

aka  "The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad"

BR circa 1959 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 28      Price: $125.00

For Sale

An attractive Burlington Route steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "BR" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "359" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "third quarter of 1959." I've paired this relic up with a very nice BR brass key.

History

The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (reporting mark CBQ) was a railroad that operated in the Midwestern United States. Commonly referred to as the Burlington Route, the Burlington, or as the Q, it operated extensive trackage in the states of Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and also in Texas through subsidiaries Colorado and Southern Railway, Fort Worth and Denver Railway, and Burlington-Rock Island Railroad. Its primary connections included Chicago, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Denver. Because of this extensive trackage in the midwest and mountain states, the railroad used the advertising slogans "Everywhere West", "Way of the Zephyrs," and "The Way West." In 1970, the Burlington Route merged with three major railroads; the Great Northern Railway, Northern Pacific Railway, and the Spokane-Portland & Seattle Railway to form Burlington Northern."

1959 Highlights

Alaska (Jan. 3) and Hawaii (Aug. 21) become the 49th and 50th states. St. Lawrence Seaway opens, allowing ocean ships to reach Midwest (April 25). Cuban President Batista resigns and flees (Jan. 1). Fidel Castro assumes power (Feb. 16). Frank Sinatra wins his first Grammy Award, Best Album for Come Dance with Me. Finally, my hometown White Sox were defeated in the World Series against the Dodgers, 4-2.

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Burlington Route Railroad

aka  "The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad"

BR steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 29      Price: $195.00

For Sale

Another attractive Burlington Route steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "BR" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Note: The frontside hasp is stamped "CS 4S." This alpha-numeric combo "CS 4S," is usually associated with Southern Pacific switch locks. I believe this stamp mark to be a mistake, which was caught at the foundry. This mis-stamp anomoly creates a great conversation piece! I've paired this nice relic up with another nice relic, a Burlington Route brass key.

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Burlington Route Railroad

aka  "The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad"

BR steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 30      Price: $125.00

For Sale

One more sharp Burlington Route steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "BR" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've paired this relic up with a very nice BR brass key.

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Butte, Anaconda & Pacific Railway

BA&P circa 1977 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 32      Price: $165.00 $150.00

For Sale

Here's a lock off one of the first freight railroads in the US to electrify their line and is still operating. For sale is a Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railway steel lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "BA&P" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "77." Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching BA&P brass key make a great pair.

History

The Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railway (reporting mark BAP) is a short line railroad in the U.S. state of Montana which was incorporated in 1891. It was financed by the interests behind the Anaconda Copper Mining Company and operated primarily to carry copper ore from the mines at Butte, Montana to the smelters at Anaconda, Montana, although the company was chartered as a common carrier and also carried passengers and general freight.

On July 19, 2007, Patriot Rail Corporation, the parent company which acquired Rarus Railway in May 2007, announced that the railway's name was officially changed back to Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railway.

1977 Highlights

Apple Computer is incorporated. Jimmy Carter is sworn in as the 39th President of the United States. George Lucas's Star Wars opens in cinemas and becomes the highest-grossing film of its time. It also makes sci-fi films very popular. Groucho Marx, comedic legend, star of stage and screen, dies of pneumonia at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, at the age of 86 (born 1890). The Commodore PET computer is first sold. In sports, Reggie Jackson blasts 3 home runs to lead the New York Yankees to a World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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Chicago & Alton Railway

Chicago & Alton circa turn of the century steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 34      Price: $225.00

For Sale

Another chance to own a great looking Chicago & Alton Railway relic. "Adlake" forged, "C&A RY" is stamped on the frontside hasp. The lock has seen it's share of service but is still in good condition. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching C&A key make a great looking set!

History

The Chicago & Mississippi Railroad was completed between Bloomington and Joliet in 1854. On July 31st, 1854, the first train arrived in Joliet from Bloomington, traveling some eighty-five miles in two hours and thirty-five minutes.This railroad went through a series of name changes in its early years, becoming the Chicago, Alton & St. Louis Railroad in February 1855, the St. Louis, Alton & Chicago Railroad on January 21st, 1857 and the Chicago & Alton Railroad on October 10th, 1862.

On May 2nd and 3rd of 1865 the Lincoln Funeral Train, carrying the body of the slain president, passed through Joliet over the Chicago & Alton tracks and on to Springfield to be interred.

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Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad

aka  "The Burlington Route"

CB&Q signal dept. brass lock sets

Lock Set: 36      Price: $100.00

For Sale

A handsome pair of brass CB&Q signal locks. Pertaining to both lock sets; the initials are clearly stamped "CB&Q RR" on the front hasp. Both locks are in great shape, the spring drop is very snug and the hasp opens and latches with ease. The butterfly steel keys are interchangeable and work great with either lock. The locks were once owned by a Kansas City collector, and were well taken care of for decades. Skeptical collectors take note: this style of CB&Q lock is listed in "Don Stewart's R.R. Switch Keys & Padlocks." Although there are no foundry stamp marks, as communicated to me via email by Hansel's grandson - Jim Hansel, the locks were forged at his grandfather's foundry, the Hansel Mfg. Co.

History

The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad (reporting mark CBQ) was a railroad that operated in the Midwestern United States. Commonly referred to as the Burlington Route, the Burlington or as the Q, it operated extensive trackage in the states of Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and also in New Mexico and Texas through subsidiaries Colorado and Southern Railway, Fort Worth and Denver Railway, and Burlington-Rock Island Railroad. Now part of the BNSF.

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Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad

aka  "The Burlington Route"

CB&Q steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 37      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A rare Chicago-Burlington & Quincy steel switch lock. Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina, which enhances the beauty of the lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials"CB&Q RR" are clearly stamped on the back. The spring drop is not snug but is secure, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has its original spike chain. Although there is no date stamp, I would guess early 1930s. Q switch keys being far and rare, I've matched the lock up with a very nice Burlington Route brass key. A rare and handsome lock set!

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Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad

aka  "The Burlington Route"

CB&Q circa 1934 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 38      Price: $150.00

For Sale

Another very rare Chicago-Burlington & Quincy steel switch lock. Enduring the elements while in service, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CB&Q" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "134" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1934." The Burlington brass key works great with this relic and together make a handsome lock set.

1934 Highlights

The Flash Gordon comic strip is first published in the United States. Demise of the Depression-era Public Enemies. John Dillinger breaks out of Crown Point County Jail with a wooden gun and, a few months later is shot dead in a Chicago alley by FBI agents. American outlaws Bonnie and Clyde are ambushed and killed by police in Bienville Parish, Louisiana. The first Three Stooges short, Woman Haters, is released. The Indian Reorganization Act is enacted.

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Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad

C&EI steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 40      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

A very attractive Chicago & Eastern Illinois steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "C&EI" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original galvanized chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I paired the lock up with a much older Adams & Westlake key. The steel key works great with this lock and together make a great match!

History

The Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad was a Class I railroad that linked Chicago to southern Illinois, St. Louis, and Evansville. Founded in 1877, it grew aggressively and stayed relatively strong throughout the Great Depression and two World Wars before finally being purchased by the Missouri Pacific Railroad (MoPac) and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad (L&N). Missouri Pacific merged with the C&EI corporate entity in 1976, and was later acquired itself by the Union Pacific Railroad.

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Central of Georgia Railroad

CofGA circa 1949 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 42      Price: $185.00 $175.00

For Sale

Here's a great looking southern oldie, a Central of Georgia Railroad steel switch lock. Enduring the elements while in service, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CofGA" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "449" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "fourth quarter of 1949." I've matched this relic up with a great looking CofG brass key and together make a fine pair.

History

The Central of Georgia Railway started as the Central Rail Road & Canal Company in 1833. As a way to better attract investment capital, the railroad changed its name to Central Rail Road & Banking Company of Georgia. This railroad was constructed to join the Macon & Western Railroad at Macon, Georgia, and run to Savannah. This created a rail link from Chattanooga, on the Tennessee River, to seaports on the Atlantic Ocean. It took from 1837 to 1843 to build the railroad from Savannah to the eastern bank of the Ocmulgee River at Macon; a bridge into the city was not built until 1851. During the Savannah Campaign of the American Civil War, conducted during November and December 1864, Federal troops tore up the rails and converted them into "Sherman's neckties." Today the Central of Georgia exists only as a paper railroad within the Norfolk Southern Railway group. 42 miles (68 km) of the CofG's former mainline are currently leased by the Chattooga and Chickamauga Railway from the State of Georgia.

1949 Highlights

The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy, Denver and Rio Grande Western and Western Pacific railroads inaugurate the California Zephyr passenger train between Chicago and Oakland, California, as the first long distance train to feature Vista Dome cars as regular equipment. Harry S. Truman is sworn in for a full term, as President of the United States. The Los Angeles area is hit with a massive snow storm. The first television western, Hopalong Cassidy, airs on NBC in the United States. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is established.

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Central Vermont Railway

CV steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 44      Price: $100.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

Is a Central Vermont steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CV RY" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.

Note: I purchased this lock w/o a key; my thoughts were, it's a nice lock and I have CV keys at home. To my surprise, a standard CV key did not work but, I did manage to find a key for it and it works just fine. After studying the brass generic key bit, I knew I seen this style before. This lock actually requires a Boston & Maine key or similar style key.

Knowing that the CV interchanged with various eastern and Canadian railroads, this is not unusual for a switch lock from one railroad requiring a key from another railroad to open it. I have a few more like this listed; (see the Escanaba & Lake Superior lock below.) As far as I knew, this B&M key style, only matched up with B&M Corbin switch locks. I thought I would just put this out there for my eastern collector friends.

History

The Central Vermont Railway, founded by the Smith family, was once the largest employer in St. Albans, with lines stretching from New York City to Canada, bringing international trade to the area, and earning the city the nickname "the Rail City."

The Consolidated Railway was formed on June 30, 1884, to consolidate the Central Vermont and Vermont and Canada and to settle litigation between the two companies. A new Central Vermont Railroad was formed on July 1, 1884 to take over from the Consolidated Railway.

In 1896, the Central Vermont entered receivership, and the Rutland Railroad was separated. The Grand Trunk Railway bought the bankrupt company on March 20. The Ogdensburg and Lake Champlain Railroad lease ended in 1898, and that company was leased by the Rutland in 1901. The Central Vermont Railroad was sold at foreclosure on March 21, 1899, and was reorganized as the Central Vermont Railway on May 1.

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Chattahoochee Valley Railway

CV brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 46      Price: $155.00 $145.00

For Sale

Another first time listing is this Chattahoochee Valley brass and steel switch lock. Purchased from the daughter of a former Chattahoochee Valley railroader, the lock is "Fraim" forged. The initials "CV RY Co." are stamped on the front hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The chains' keeper moves freely. The matching brass key is also stamped "CV RY." Another nice Southern oldie!

History

The Chattahoochee Valley Railway was a shortline railroad linking a number of textile mills between West Point, Georgia and McGinty, Alabama for a total distance of 9.5 miles. As a subsidiary of West Point Pepperell, the entire railroad was abandoned in 1992.

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Chattahoochee Valley Railway

CV steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 47      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

Another handsome Chattahoochee Valley steel switch lock. Purchased from the daughter of a former Chattahoochee Valley railroader, the lock is "Adlake" forged, the initials "CV RY" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching CV RY brass key make this lock set another perfect marriage.

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Chattahoochee Valley Railway

CV steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 48      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

As you may have surmised, I got all 3 CV locks from the same person. Here's another Chattahoochee Valley steel switch lock purchased from the daughter of a former Chattahoochee Valley railroader. The lock is "Adlake" forged, the initials "CV RY" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching CV RY key make a great pair. A nice set!

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Canadian National Railroad

CNR steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 50      Price: $95.00

For Sale

Like new! A Canadian National steel lock and brass key. The lock is in great condition, and has its original spike chain. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching CNR brass key make this another perfect marriage! This particular lock came off a CNR engine door and fell into my grip. A rugged lock with a nice-extra long chain too!

History

Canadian National Railway Company (CN), corporation created by the Canadian government in 1918 to operate a number of nationalized railroads (including the old Grand Trunk lines, the Intercolonial Railway, the National Transcontinental Railway, and the Canadian Northern Railway) as one of Canada’s two transcontinental railroad systems. Headquarters are in Montreal.

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Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad

C&O circa 1952 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 52      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

A great looking 70 year old Chesapeake & Ohio steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "C&O" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "252" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1952." Since the lock was stamped C&O, I paired it up with a nice Adlake brass key, that was also stamped C&O. Good age comparison, this C&O lock and the one below @ 10 years apart.

History

The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway (reporting marks C&O, CO) was a Class I railroad formed in 1869 in Virginia from several smaller Virginia railroads began in the 19th century. Led by industrialist Collis P. Huntington, it reached from Virginia's capital city of Richmond to the Ohio River by 1873, where the railroad town (and later city) of Huntington, West Virginia, was named for him. Now part of the CSX Transportation.

1952 Highlights

In 1952, despite the war in Korea, Americans considered themselves to be prospering with average worker earning $3,400 per year, a college teacher could expect to earn $5,100 per year. Three out of 5 families owned a car, 2 out of 3 families now had a telephone, 1 in 3 homes had a television. The average woman in America would be married by 20 years of age looking forward to raising a family but few continued with a career after children were born. Fast Food restaurants were growing in popularity, but the scourge of Polio hit many thousands of families ( 50,000 estimated ). Many more cars in America were now fitted with automatic gearboxes and gas cost 25 cents per gallon.

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Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad

C&O circa 1962 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 53      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

Ten years younger than the lock above is another C&O oldie. "Adlake" forged, the initials "C&O" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "162" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1962." Since the lock was stamped C&O, I paired it up with a nice Adlake brass key, that was also stamped C&O. Good age comparison, this C&O lock and the one above @ 10 years, and the C&O lock below @ 13 years apart.

1962 Highlights

The year 1962 witnessed the Cuban Missile Crisis: USSR to build missile bases in Cuba; Kennedy orders Cuban blockade, lifts blockade after Russia backs down (Aug.-Nov.). The United States Navy SEALs, elite special forces, are activated. SEAL Team One is commissioned in the Pacific Fleet and SEAL Team Two in the Atlantic Fleet. On a happier note, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy takes television viewers on a tour of the White House. In Los Angeles, the first MLB baseball game is played at Dodger Stadium.

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Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad

C&O circa 1975 brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 54      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

Twenty-three years younger than the C&O lock above is another nice Chesapeake & Ohio switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, it has a steel body and a fancy brass hasp and, is in excellent condition. The back of the lock is clearly stamped "C&O" along with a stamped year rivet "75." Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Once again, since the lock was stamped C&O, I paired it up with an Adlake brass key, that was also stamped C&O. Good age comparison, this C&O lock and the 2 C&O locks above @ 23 years, 13 years apart respectively. A great looking lock set!

1975 Highlights

In 1975 Microsoft is founded as a partnership between Bill Gates and Paul Allen.Linda McCartney is charged in US with possession of marijuana. "Wheel Of Fortune," debuts on NBC-tv while Gunsmoke goes off the the air. "Jaws," based on the book by Peter Benchley, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Roy Scheider is released. In sports, Giants pitcher John "the Count of" Montefusco wins NL Rookie of Year.

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Chicago Great Western Railroad

CGW circa 1949 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 56      Price: $165.00 $145.00

For Sale

A Chicago Great Western steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CGW" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "249" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1949." Because of the locks' age, I paired it up with a very nice A&W oldie CGW brass stamped key. A great looking lock set!

History

The Chicago Great Western Railway was a Class I railroad that linked Chicago, Minneapolis, Omaha, and Kansas City. It was founded by Alpheus Beede Stickney in 1885 as a regional line between St. Paul and the Iowa state line called the Minnesota and Northwestern Railroad. Now part of the Union Pacific Railroad.

1949 Highlights

The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy, Denver and Rio Grande Western and Western Pacific railroads inaugurate the California Zephyr passenger train between Chicago and Oakland, California, as the first long distance train to feature Vista Dome cars as regular equipment. Harry S. Truman is sworn in for a full term, as President of the United States. The Los Angeles area is hit with a massive snow storm. The first television western, Hopalong Cassidy, airs on NBC in the United States. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is established.

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Chicago, Milwaukee & St.Paul Railroad

aka  "The Milwaukee Road"

Milwaukee brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $165.00 $145.00

For Sale

A very attractive "Milwaukee" brass switch lock set. There is no visible foundry stamp. Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark brown patina, which enhances the patina of the lock. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The spring drop is very snug, because of it's age, you must pull up on the hasp while turning the key. I have a few locks listed that operate just like this one. Collector's have bestowed the term "cripple" on these locks. I don't find it a big deal, after all, the locks are antiques, which I like to call relics. The main thing is the lock will open and latch. The just as old matching Milwaukee key make a great looking set!

History

The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, often referred to as the "Milwaukee Road," was a Class I railroad that operated in the Midwest and Northwest of the United States from 1847 until 1986. The company experienced financial difficulty through the 1970s and 1980s, including bankruptcy in 1977. In 1980, it abandoned its Pacific Extension, which included track in the states of Montana, Idaho, and Washington. The remaining system was merged into the Soo Line Railroad (reporting mark SOO), a subsidiary of Canadian Pacific Railway (reporting mark CP), on January 1, 1986. Much of its historical trackage remains in use by other railroads.

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Chicago, Milwaukee St.Paul & Pacific Railroad

aka  "The Milwaukee Road"

Milwaukee brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 59      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

A very nice Milwaukee switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, it has a brass hasp and steel body. The back of the lock is clearly stamped "CMSt.P&P" and is in excellent working condition. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Milwaukee key make a handsome pair! Nice, well preserved Milwaukee set!

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Chicago, Milwaukee St.Paul & Pacific Railroad

aka  "The Milwaukee Road"

Milwaukee circa 1976 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 60      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

Another attractive Milwaukee switch lock. "Adlake" forged, it has a brass hasp and steel body. The back of the lock has a stamped year rivet "76" and the initials are clearly stamped "CMSt.P&P." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The handsome Milwaukee brass key make this another great looking lock set!

1976 Highlights

Conrail (Consolidated Rails Corporation) is formed by the U.S. government, to take control of 13 major Northeast Class-1 railroads that had filed for bankruptcy protection. Conrail takes control at midnight, as a government-owned and operated railroad until 1986, when it is sold to the public. United States Bicentennial: From coast to coast, the United States celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Apple Computer Company is formed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. In sports, the Cincinnati Reds sweep the NY Yankees to win the World Series.

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Chicago, Milwaukee St.Paul & Pacific Railroad

aka  "The Milwaukee Road"

Milwaukee brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 61      Price: $50.00

For Sale

And yet another Milwaukee steel/brass switch lock. It is similar to the Milwaukee lock listed above, minus it's chain. "Adlake" forged, the back of the lock has a stamped year rivet "76" and the initials clearly stamped "CMSt.P&P." The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. For collectors who prefer no chains, this is a nice one!

1976 Highlights

Conrail (Consolidated Rails Corporation) is formed by the U.S. government, to take control of 13 major Northeast Class-1 railroads that had filed for bankruptcy protection. Conrail takes control at midnight, as a government-owned and operated railroad until 1986, when it is sold to the public. United States Bicentennial: From coast to coast, the United States celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Apple Computer Company is formed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. In sports, the Cincinnati Reds sweep the NY Yankees to win the World Series.

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Columbus & Newark Railroad

C&N circa 1957 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 63      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A Columbus & Newark steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock is in excellent working condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The initials "C&N" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp and "1957" on the flip side. The matching C&N brass key make this another perfect marriage!

History

The Columbus & Newark (subdivision) rails heading east from Columbus to Newark, Ohio were jointly owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.

1957 Highlights

1957 witnessed the continued growth of bigger taller tail fins on new cars and more lights, bigger with more powerful engines and an average car sold for $2,749. The Soviet Union launched the first space satellite Sputnik 1. Movies included "Twelve Angry Men" and "The Bridge Over the River Kwai," and TV showed "Perry Mason" and "Maverick" for the first time. The music continued to be Rock and Roll with artists like "Little Richard." The popular toys were Slinkys and Hula Hoops. The continued growth of the use of credit was shown by the fact that 2/3 of all new cars were bought on credit. Some of the areas that would cause problems later were starting to show South Vietnam is attacked by Viet Cong Guerrillas and Troops are sent to Arkansas to enforce anti segregation laws.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 65      Price: $150.00 $130.00

For Sale

A Chicago & North Western steel/brass switch lock set. "Fraim" forged, "C&NW" is clearly stamped on the front brass hasp and Fraim stamped on the back body. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in good condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action. This North Western key came with the lock, and because of it's characteristics, I would say it's a Fraim also. A handsome set!

History

The Chicago and North Western Railway was chartered on June 7, 1859, five days after it purchased the assets of the bankrupt Chicago, St. Paul and Fond du Lac Railroad. On February 15, 1865, it merged with the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad, which had been chartered on January 16, 1836. The North Western is now part of the giant Union Pacific Railroad.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 66      Price: $150.00 $130.00

For Sale

A little more weathered character than the CNW lock above but works just as great, is another "Fraim." "C&NW" is clearly stamped on the front hasp and Fraim stamped on the back body. The handsome brass hasp and rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in good condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The drop cover is snug and has good spring action. The A&W key, which is just as old as the lock, work well together.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW circa 1988 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 67      Price: $95.00

For Sale

Is an "Adlake" forged steel switch lock. In great working condition, the initials "C&NW" are clearly stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "88." Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The C&NW-Adlake embellished stamped key, make a fine pair.

1988 Highlights

Here at home in 1988, Chicago gives Cubs right to install lights & play up to 18 night games. Jose Canseco is baseball's 1st to steal 40 bases & hit 40 HRs. Donald Trump bills Mike Tyson $2,000,000 for 4 month advisory service! Had to mention this one, Lori Davis of Long Island sues Mike Tyson for grabbing her buttocks!

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW circa 1985 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 68      Price: $85.00

For Sale

Three years younger than the North Western switch lock above, the lock is in fine condition. "Adlake" forged, the initials "C&NW" are clearly stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "88." Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The C&NW-Adlake embellished stamped key, make a fine pair.

1985 Highlights

President Ronald Reagan is privately sworn in for a second term in office (publicly sworn in, January 21). U.S. Route 66 is officially decommissioned. The FBI brings charges against the suspected heads of the five Mafia families in New York City. Boxing: Mike Tyson makes his professional debut in Albany, New York, a match which he wins by a first-round knockout. Basketball: Los Angeles Lakers win the NBA championship, defeating the Boston Celtics.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW circa 1964 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 69      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

Although there are a myriad of North Western locks on the market, this "Adlake" forged steel lock is somewhat different. There is a expression, "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." Adlake factory date stamps are usually stamped under the drop cover, and in later years, the year (rivet) stamped on the back upper left. Here we have the Adlake Co., in its later years, mimicking Samuel Slaymaker's style. This CNW lock has "1964" stamped boldly on it's back hasp. For the deep thinkers, maybe a silent homage aimed at another great lock master.

In great working condition, the initials "C&NW" are clearly stamped on the back. The drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp unlocks and latches with ease. The original spike chain is attached. Includes a very nice brass C&NW stamped key. A great conversation piece and a very nice lock set for a boomer collector born in 1964!

1964 Highlights

Plans to build the New York City World Trade Center are announced. Teamsters President Jimmy Hoffa is convicted by a federal jury of tampering with a federal jury in 1962. A Dallas, Texas, jury finds Jack Ruby guilty of killing John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. On February 9, 1964, the Beatles first appeared on the, Ed Sullivan show (73.7 million viewers). The space race was heating up between the US and Russia. Also, in 1964, the first Kennedy half dollar is issued. In sports, Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers southpaw, Sandy Koufax is first to strike out the side on 9 pitches.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW circa 1987 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 70      Price: $50.00

For Sale

Lock collectors who prefer no chains, here's a "Adlake" forged set for sale. In nice condition, the initials "C&NW" are clearly stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "87." The drop cover is very snug, and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Works great!

1987 Highlights

Aretha Franklin becomes the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Black Monday: Stock market levels fall sharply on Wall Street and around the world. October 26 - The Dow Jones Industrial Average goes down 156.83 points. American Motors is acquired by the Chrysler Corporation. During a visit to Berlin, Germany, U.S. President Ronald Reagan challenges Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall. At age 47 and just 5 days before his 48th birthday, Al Unser Sr. became the oldest winner of the Indianapolis 500 and only the second driver to win the event four times.

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Chicago & North Western Railroad

C&NW brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 71      Price: $175.00 $150.00

For Sale

There are a myriad of C&NW steel switch locks in circulation, but you do not see too many brass switch lock sets. For sale is a very attractive all brass, Chicago & North Western Railroad lock set. "Slaymaker" forged, "C&NW" is clearly stamped on the backside hasp. Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural brown patina, which enhances the beauty of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I paired the lock with a very nice Slaymaker key. The perfect couple!

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Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad

Rock Island circa 1959 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 74      Price: $175.00 $150.00

For Sale

A Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CRI&P" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "259" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1959." It unlocks and latches like it just left the factory yesterday. The lock has its original spike chain attached. A few decades older, the A&W brass key is a great match!

History

The Chicago-Rock Island & Pacific Railroad (CRI&P RR) (reporting marks RI, ROCK) was a Class I railroad in the United States. It was also known as the Rock Island Line, or, in its final years, The Rock. Its predecessor, the Rock Island and La Salle Railroad Company, was incorporated in Illinois on February 27, 1847, and an amended charter was approved on February 7, 1851, as the Chicago & Rock Island Railroad. In 1980 the Rock became a "fallen flag" and it's existing lines were divvied up to other carriers, the Union Pacific being one of them.

1959 Highlights

Alaska (Jan. 3) and Hawaii (Aug. 21) become the 49th and 50th states. St. Lawrence Seaway opens, allowing ocean ships to reach Midwest (April 25). Cuban President Batista resigns and flees (Jan. 1). Fidel Castro assumes power (Feb. 16). Frank Sinatra wins his first Grammy Award, Best Album for Come Dance with Me. Finally, my hometown White Sox were defeated in the World Series against the Dodgers, 4-2.

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Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad

Rock Island steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 75      Price: $125.00

For Sale

An "Adlake" forged steel switch lock. Still sporting the original spike chain, the drop cover is snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Nice clean lock set with a great looking Rock key!

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Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad

Rock Island brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 76      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

Like new! A very nice Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific brass switch lock set. Forged by the "Hansl MFG. Co.," the lock is clearly stamped "CRI&P RR" on the front side hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The bright brass Rock key make a nice match.

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Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad

Rock Island repair track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 77      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Repair Track steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CRI&P" are clearly stamped on the back. Sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Another great relic for your lock collection!

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Chicago & Western Indiana Railroad

C&WI steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 79      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A steel switch lock off the Chicago & Western Indiana, which hardly ever comes around for sale. "Adlake" forged, "C&WI" is clearly stamped on the backside. Switch keys abundant, but scarce switch locks, this one is in excellent condition. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. A very nice Chicago relic!

History

The Chicago and Western Indiana Railroad was the owner of Dearborn Station in Chicago and the trackage leading to it. It was owned equally by five of the railroads using it to reach the terminal, and kept those companies from needing their own lines into the city. With the closure of Dearborn Station in 1971 and the Calumet steel mills in 1985, the railroad was gradually downgraded until 1994 when it became a subsidiary of the Union Pacific Corporation.

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Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Railway

aka "The Big Four"

Big Four circa 1800s brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 81      Price: $210.00 $195.00

For Sale

A Big 4 brass switch lock. Forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co.," the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The "A&W-hex" foundry stamp on the drop cover, dates this lock from the 1800s. This relic still has its original spike chain attached, which aged very nicely!

History

The railroad was formed on June 30, 1889, by the merger of the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Indianapolis Railway, the Cincinnati, Indianapolis, St. Louis and Chicago Railway and the Indianapolis and St. Louis Railway. The following year, the company gained control of the former Indiana, Bloomington and Western Railway (through the foreclosed Ohio, Indiana and Western Railway and through an operating agreement with the Peoria and Eastern Railway).

In 1906 the Big Four was acquired by the New York Central Railroad, which operated it as a separate entity until around 1930. The Big Four's lines were later incorporated into Penn Central in 1968 with the merger of New York Central and the Pennsylvania Railroad. Penn Central declared bankruptcy in 1970, and in 1976 many of Big Four's lines were included in the government-sponsored Conrail.

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Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Railway

aka "The Big Four"

Big Four circa 1800s brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $210.00 $195.00

For Sale

This Big 4 brass switch lock, like the one above, is in great shape too. Forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co.," the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The "A&W-hex" foundry stamp on the drop cover, dates this lock from the 1800s. The lock has it's original chain attched, which I always say is a great rarity with all 1800 era locks.

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Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Railway

aka "The Big Four"

BIG-4 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 83      Price: $175.00

For Sale

"Fraim" forged, Big 4 steel switch lock. The frontside hasp is neatly and clearly stamped "CCC&ST L." The lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Original spike chain attached, its' keeper hook is a little stiff, but will move from side to side. I can tell this lock was well taken care of, and is one of the better Big 4 locks I've purchased. The matching brass key make for a great looking lock set.

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Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Railway

aka "The Big Four"

Big Four signal dept. brass lock set

Lock Set: 84      Price: $115.00 $100.00

For Sale

A very attractive BIG 4 Railway brass signal dept. lock. Made for "CCC&STL RY" is clearly stamped on the front. "Yale" forged, the lock is in great working condition. Although the aluminum key is not the original, it still works well with the lock. A great looking lock set!

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Clinchfield Railroad

CCO circa 1977 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 87      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

Clinchfield switch locks don't come around that often, this being only my third I've offered for sale. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CRR" are clearly stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "77." Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The pocket worn brass key is an original Clinchfield. A nice well preserved lock.

History

The Clinchfield Railroad (reporting mark CRR) was an operating and holding company for the Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Railway (reporting mark CCO). The line ran from the coalfields of Virginia and Elkhorn City, Kentucky, to the textile mills of South Carolina. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

1977 Highlights

Apple Computer is incorporated. Jimmy Carter is sworn in as the 39th President of the United States. George Lucas's Star Wars opens in cinemas and becomes the highest-grossing film of its time. It also makes sci-fi films very popular. Groucho Marx, comedic legend, star of stage and screen, dies of pneumonia at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, at the age of 86 (born 1890). The Commodore PET computer is first sold. In sports, Reggie Jackson blasts 3 home runs to lead the New York Yankees to a World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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Conrail

Conrail (nee NYC) circa 1994 repair track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 89      Price: $135.00 $110.00

For Sale

A very nice Conrail steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CR" are clearly stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "94." Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. To make the set complete, I've matched it up with a very nice original NYCS brass repair track key A great looking set!

History

Conrail, the Consolidated Rail Corporation, (reporting mark CR), was the primary Class I railroad in the Northeastern United States between 1976 and 1999, when its routes were split between the CSX Corporation and Norfolk Southern Railway. Conrail, a portmanteau of "consolidated" and "rail" from the name of the company, operates now as a joint-subsidiary for some limited functions.

1994 Highlights

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is established. Jeff Bezos founds Amazon. All Major League Baseball players go on strike, beginning the longest work stoppage in the sport's history. The 1994 World Series is officially cancelled due to the ongoing work stoppage. It is the first time a World Series will not be played since 1904.

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Conrail

Conrail (nee PRR) circa 1992 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 90     car dept.     Price: $135.00 $115.00

For Sale

A steel Conrail switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CR" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "92." Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. To make the set complete, I've matched it up with a very nice original PRR brass car key. Another great looking set!

1992 Highlights

Microsoft releases Windows 3.1. After 30 years, Johnny Carson retires as host of NBC's The Tonight Show. The largest shopping mall in the US, Minnesota's Mall of America, is constructed on 78 acres. Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas defeats incumbent President George H. W. Bush and businessman H. Ross Perot in the US presidential election. Super Bowl XXVI: The Washington Redskins defeat the Buffalo Bills 37-24 at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Conrail

Conrail steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $65.00

For Sale

Conrail lasted 23 years and then joined the other "fallen flags." For sale is a steel "Keyline" steel switch lock and brass key. The initials "CR" are clearly stamped on the back and "Elkhart, IND" on the shackle. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The PRR knobby brass key works great!

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Chicago South Shore Railroad

CSS brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 93      Price: $145.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

A very attractive Chicago South Shore brass switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, (my guess-1960s) the initials "CSS" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in very good condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Great looking key match!

History

Chartered in 1900, the De Queen and Eastern Railroad is a Class III short-line railroad headquartered in De Queen, Arkansas. QE operates 87 miles of track in Arkansas on a 45.3 miles line from De Queen, where it interchanges with both the Kansas City Southern Railway and Texas, Oklahoma and Eastern Railroad to Perkins, Arkansas, where it interchanges with Union Pacific Railroad. It was a subsidiary of Weyerhaeuser Company, which on 2 August 2010 announced that the DQE, along with Weyerhaeuser's other railroads, was being sold to Patriot Rail Corporation in late 2010. As of early 2021, the line remains a Patriot Rail subsidiary.

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Chicago Transit Authority

CTA brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 95      Price: $175.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

Is a handsome Chicago Transit Authority switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CTA" are clearly stamped on the back. It's steel body with a great patina complements the brass hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Matching brass key make a great pair!

History

Following World War II and the continuing financial malaise of the privately owned bus, streetcar and elevated/subway operators, both the city government of Chicago and the Illinois legislature favored consolidating the three separate systems into a single, public-owned authority. The assets and operations of the CRT were assumed by the newly established Chicago Transit Authority on October 1, 1947.

CTA buses were known as the "green limousine" or the "big green" - buses were one or more shades of green from the CTA's establishment until the end of the 1980s. With the delivery of the TMC RTS buses in 1991, a more patriotic color scheme was adopted, and the green scheme was fully phased out by 1996. A notable color scheme was the "Bicentennial" of about 1974 to 1976.

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CSX Railroad

CSX repair track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 97      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

A very nice steel "Keyline" CSX rip track lock set. The initials "CSX MECH CAR" are clearly stamped on the back and "Elkhart, IND"on the shackle. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock has excellent spring action. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The brass key is not the original key but it does work well with the lock.

History

CSX Transportation (reporting mark CSXT), known colloquially as simply CSX, is a Class I freight railroad operating in the eastern United States and the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. The railroad operates approximately 21,000 route miles of track. The company operates as the leading subsidiary of CSX Corporation, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.

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De Queen & Eastern Railroad

D&E brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 99      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

A very rare De Queen & Eastern brass switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, (my guess-1960s) the initials "D&E RR" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Great looking key match!

History

Chartered in 1900, the De Queen and Eastern Railroad is a Class III short-line railroad headquartered in De Queen, Arkansas. QE operates 87 miles of track in Arkansas on a 45.3 miles line from De Queen, where it interchanges with both the Kansas City Southern Railway and Texas, Oklahoma and Eastern Railroad to Perkins, Arkansas, where it interchanges with Union Pacific Railroad. It was a subsidiary of Weyerhaeuser Company, which on 2 August 2010 announced that the DQE, along with Weyerhaeuser's other railroads, was being sold to Patriot Rail Corporation in late 2010. As of early 2021, the line remains a Patriot Rail subsidiary.

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Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad

D&RGW circa 1952 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 101      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Just listed is this great looking D&RGW steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "D&RGW" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "52" are stamped under the drop cover, the number indicating the calendar quarter (1-4) has been worn off. At least we know the foundry year it was made, which is 1952. The lock has a very nice dark patina, which complements the 70 (my age) year old lock. It's original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The matching D&RGW brass key make a great pair.

History

The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad (reporting mark DRGW), often shortened to Rio Grande, D&RG or D&RGW, formerly the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, was an American Class I railroad company. The railroad started as a 3 ft (914 mm) narrow-gauge line running south from Denver, Colorado in 1870. It served mainly as a transcontinental bridge line between Denver, and Salt Lake City, Utah. The Rio Grande was also a major origin of coal and mineral traffic. In 1988, the Rio Grande's parent corporation, Rio Grande Industries, purchased Southern Pacific Transportation Company, and as the result of a merger, the larger Southern Pacific Railroad name was chosen for identity. The Rio Grande operated as a separate division of the Southern Pacific until 1992. Today, most former D&RGW main lines are owned and operated by the Union Pacific Railroad while several branch lines are now operated as heritage railways by various companies.

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Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad

D&RGW steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 102      Price: $125.00 $110.00

For Sale

A Denver & Rio Grande Western steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "D&RGW" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "52" are stamped under the drop cover, the number indicating the calendar quarter (1-4) has been worn off. At least we know the foundry year it was made, which is 1952. The lock has its original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The lock has a very nice dark patina, which complements the 70 (my age) year old lock.Note: This style switch key with this set, is different from the key with the set below. Both style switch keys work the same.

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Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad

D&RGW circa 1964 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 103      Price: $125.00 $110.00

For Sale

LIKE NEW is a Denver & Rio Grande Western steel lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "D&RGW" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "364" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "third quarter of 1964." The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The lock has its original spike chain attached. Note: This style switch key with this set, differers from the key with the set above. Both style switch keys work the same.

1964 Highlights

Plans to build the New York City World Trade Center are announced. Teamsters President Jimmy Hoffa is convicted by a federal jury of tampering with a federal jury in 1962. A Dallas, Texas, jury finds Jack Ruby guilty of killing John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. On February 9, 1964, the Beatles first appeared on the, Ed Sullivan show (73.7 million viewers). The space race was heating up between the US and Russia. Also, in 1964, the first Kennedy half dollar is issued. In sports, Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers southpaw, Sandy Koufax is first to strike out the side on 9 pitches.

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Denver & Rio Grande Railroad

D&RGW circa 1800s brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 104      Price: $275.00 $260.00

For Sale

A very nice Denver & Rio Grande brass lock set. Forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co.," the initials "D&RG" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. A handsome relic-not as banged up as other Rio Grande brass locks I've come across. Note: By late 1880, William Bell had begun to organize railway construction in Utah that would become the Palmer controlled Denver & Rio Grande Western Railway in mid-1881. The intention of the D&RGW (aka the "Western") was to work eastward from Provo to an eventual link with westward bound D&RG in Colorado.

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Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Railroad

DM&IR circa 1977 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 108      Price: $165.00 $155.00

For Sale

A very clean Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range steel switch lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the initials "DM&IR" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped rivet "77." "Adlake" forged, the spring drop is very snug and has excellent spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching DM&IR brass key works great!

History

The Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway (DM&IR) (reporting mark DMIR), informally known as the Missabe Road, was a railroad operating in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin that used to haul iron ore and later taconite to the Great Lakes ports of Duluth and Two Harbors, Minnesota. Control of the railway was acquired on May 10, 2004, by the Canadian National Railway (CN) when it purchased the assets of Great Lakes Transportation.

1977 Highlights

Apple Computer is incorporated. Jimmy Carter is sworn in as the 39th President of the United States. George Lucas's Star Wars opens in cinemas and becomes the highest-grossing film of its time. It also makes sci-fi films very popular. Groucho Marx, comedic legend, star of stage and screen, dies of pneumonia at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, at the age of 86 (born 1890). The Commodore PET computer is first sold. In sports, Reggie Jackson blasts 3 home runs to lead the New York Yankees to a World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway

aka "The J"

EJ&E circa 1800s brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 110      Price: $275.00

For Sale

FIRST TIME OFFERING: For sale is a rare Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railroad brass switch lock set. "Adams & Westlake" forged, the lock has its original chain attached. "EJ&E RY" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. The A&W hex logo is stamped on the drop cover. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has a very nice brown/dark brown patina. The past owner/owners took good care of this lock and its in excellent condition. Because of the excellent condition the lock is in, I paid more than I usually would, thus the high price. Now that the "J" is CN owned, I would think this relic is going to keep going up in price. I just hope I can find a good home for it. The A&W brass key is from the early 1900s and make a great pair.

History

The Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway (reporting mark EJE) was a Class I railroad, operating between Waukegan, Illinois and Gary, Indiana. The railroad served as a link between Class I railroads traveling to and from Chicago, although it operated almost entirely within the city's suburbs, and only entered Chicago where it served the U.S. Steel South Works on the shores of Lake Michigan. Nicknames for the railroad included "The J" and "The Chicago Outer Belt Line". At the end of 1970, the EJ&E operated 164 miles of track and carried 848 million ton-miles of revenue freight in that year alone. On December 31, 2012, Canadian National announced that the merger of the EJ&E into Wisconsin Central Ltd. (Another railroad subsidiary of CN) had been completed, and would take effect the following day. On January 1, 2013, the EJ&E effectively ceased to exist, 124 years to the day it was founded.

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Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway

aka "The J"

EJ&E circa 1979 steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $155.00 $145.00

For Sale

An Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railroad steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "EJ&E" are clearly stamped on the back along with a year rivet "79." In good shape, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has it's original chain attached and comes with the matching J key.

1979 Highlights

The Superliner railcar enters revenue service with Amtrak. McDonald's introduces the Happy Meal. October 7 - Pope John Paul II visits the United States, starting in Boston. Year end Dow Jones Industrial Average 838pt. Interest rates year end Federal Reserve 15.25%. Cost of a gallon of gas 86 cents. The Sahara Desert experiences snow for 30 minutes. In sports: The Pittsburg Steelers win the 1979 Superbowl.

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Erie Railroad

Erie brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 114      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

A rare Erie Railroad brass switch lock set. "Fraim" forged, the lock works great. The spring drop lost it's spring action, but is secure, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The Fraim 1800 Keystone stamped key, make a great geriatric pair.

History

The Erie Railroad was a railroad that operated in the northeastern United States, originally connecting New York City - more specifically Jersey City, New Jersey, where Erie's former terminal, long demolished, used to stand - with Lake Erie. It expanded west to Chicago with its 1941 merger with the former Atlantic and Great Western Railroad, also known as the New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio Railroad (NYPANO RR). Its mainline route proved influential in the development and economic growth of the Southern Tier, including cities such as Binghamton, Elmira, and Hornell.

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Erie Railroad

Erie circa 1959 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 115      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

A very clean and handsome Erie Railroad steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, "Erie RR" is clearly stamped on the front hasp. The back of the hasp is stamped "S / 1959." Still sporting its original spike chain, the attractive brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. This Erie lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The handsome Slaymaker brass key was made for this lock!

1959 Highlights

The year 1959 witnessed President Dwight D. Eisenhower sign a bill to grant statehood to Hawaii. Busch Gardens opens in Tampa, Florida. The Marx Brothers make their last television appearance, in The Incredible Jewel Robbery, part of General Electric Theatre. Mattel's Barbie doll debuts in the United States. The USS George Washington is launched as the first submarine to carry ballistic missiles.

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Erie Railroad

Erie circa 1967 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 116      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

A very clean and handsome Erie Railroad steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, "Erie RR" is clearly stamped on the front hasp. The back of the hasp is stamped "S / 1967." Still sporting its original spike chain, the attractive brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The drop cover has a nice dark patina, which gives the lock a two-tone appearance. This Erie lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Erie key make a nice pair.

1967 Highlights

The Chicago Blizzard strikes with a record 23 inches of snowfall causing 800 buses and 50,000 automobiles to be abandoned. The United States Department of Transportation begins operation and the "Milton Berle Show" last airs on ABC-TV. The American Basketball Association is formed. The 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution is enacted. The body of U.S. President John F. Kennedy is moved to a permanent burial place at Arlington National Cemetery. Martin Luther King Jr. denounces the Vietnam War during his sermon at the Riverside Church in New York City.

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Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad

E&LS steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $145.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

Is a Escanaba & Lake Superior steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "E&LS" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock has seen some service but still works great! The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. This lock would not work with the standard E&LS switch key. The E&LS had a long relationship with the Milwaukee Road, and it comes at no surprise, the lock requires a Milw style key as shown.

History

Chartered in 1888 the Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad is a Class III shortline railroad that operates 347 miles of track in Northeastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Its main line runs 208 miles from Rockland, Michigan, to Green Bay, Wisconsin, and it also owns various branch lines and out-of-service track.

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Fairport, Painesville & Eastern Railroad

FP&E steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 120      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A great looking steel Fairport, Painesville & Eastern Railroad switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "FP&E" are clearly stamped on the back. This lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock still has its original spike chain. The matching brass key is stamped FP&E.

History

The Fairport, Painesville & Eastern Railroad was a short line railroad established in 1910 and located in northeastern Ohio. Despite being owned by a couple of big railroads and having a slightly different name (Fairport, Painesville & Eastern Railway instead of Fairport, Painesville & Eastern Railroad ), the FP&E continued to operate until it was merged into the N&W in 1984. The former FP&E main line between Perry and Fairport Harbor still exists today, but now it is just a branch line of the Norfolk Southern Railway, and is known as the Fairport Industrial Track (part of the Pittsburgh Division).

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Frisco Railroad

aka  "The St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad"

Frisco circa 1962 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 123      Price: $100.00

For Sale

Popular among collectors, the Frisco Railroad was formed from the Missouri Division and Central Division of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. For sale is a dated Frisco steel switch lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the name "Frisco" is clearly stamped on the back. "Adlake" forged, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "262" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1962." The Frisco brass key make for a perfect match!

History

The St. Louis-San Francisco Railway (reporting mark SLSF) commonly known as the "Frisco," was a railroad that operated in the Midwest and South Central United States from 1876 to April 17, 1980. At the end of 1970, it operated 4,547 miles of road on 6,574 miles of track, not including subsidiaries Quanah, Acme and Pacific Railway and the Alabama, Tennessee and Northern Railroad; that year, it reported 12,795 million ton-miles of revenue freight and no passengers. It was purchased and absorbed into the Burlington Northern Railroad in 1980. Despite its name, it never came close to San Francisco.

1962 Highlights

New York City introduces a subway train that operates without a crew on board. The United States Navy SEALs are activated. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy takes television viewers on a tour of the White House. The first Wal-Mart store opens for business in Rogers, Arkansas. In sports, Wilt Chamberlain scores 100 points in a single NBA basketball game.

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Frisco Railroad

aka  "The St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad"

Frisco steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 124      Price: $100.00

For Sale

Another great looking Frisco lock for sale, is this steel "Adlake" switch lock. The name "Frisco" is clearly stamped on the back. This lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock still has its original spike chain attached, and includes the matching Frisco brass key. A very nice set!

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Frisco Railroad

aka  "The St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad"

Frisco circa 1979 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 125    last full year under the Frisco name    Price: $125.00

For Sale

Like new! Another very nice Frisco steel switch lock for sale., "Adlake" forged, "Frisco" is clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "79." This lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease The lock still has its original (like new) chain attached and the matching Frisco key make a great pair. Note: This lock is dated 1979, one year later-1980, the Frisco will merge with the Burlington Northern and the Frisco name will cease. A keeper!

1979 Highlights

The Superliner railcar enters revenue service with Amtrak. McDonald's introduces the Happy Meal. October 7 - Pope John Paul II visits the United States, starting in Boston. Year end Dow Jones Industrial Average 838pt. Interest rates year end Federal Reserve 15.25%. Cost of a gallon of gas 86 cents. The Sahara Desert experiences snow for 30 minutes. In sports: The Pittsburg Steelers win the 1979 Superbowl.

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Georgia Railroad

GA brass lock key set

Lock Set: 127      Price: $165.00

For Sale

A very nice Georgia brass switch lock. Forged at the foundry of the "J.H. Climax Co.," "GA RR" is clearly stamped on the backside hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The matching Georgia key make a very nice set.

History

The Georgia Railroad and Banking Company was a historic railroad and banking company that operated in the U.S. state of Georgia. The company was chartered in 1833 in Augusta, Georgia. In 1835, the charter was amended to include banking. In 1980, SCL merged with Chessie System to form CSX Corporation. In 1982, SCL and L&N merged to form the Seaboard System Railroad, beginning what would be a process in which the CSX operating companies would be merged into a single railroad. The Georgia Railroad was the first to be merged away. The railroad properties of the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company, which had been operated under a lease for 90 years by CSX and its predecessors, were formally merged into Seaboard System Railroad. The mixed train service also ended that year.Originally the line was chartered to build a railroad from Augusta to Athens, with a branch to Madison.

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Georgia Railroad

GA circa 1963 steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $145.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

A very nice Georgia steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged "GA RR" is clearly stamped on the backside. The numerical numbers "463" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "fourth quarter of 1963." Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The difference between this GA lock and the one listed above, it does not use the standard GA switch key. I managed to find another key that works well with the lock.

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Grand Trunk Railway

GT RY circa late 1800s steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 130      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

A real beauty for sale is this "Adlake" Grand Trunk Railway steel switch lock. Over the years, Mother Nature has bestowed a nice charcoal patina upon the it. The pictures have been lightened for better viewing. Still sporting its original spike chain, "GTRY" is clearly stamped on the back. For it's age, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching GT RY brass key make a great set. Nice GT oldie that doesn't come around often!

According to the railroad's corporate history, by 1900 Grand Trunk would unite the operations of the Chicago and Grand Trunk Railway and all of its lines in Michigan, Illinois and Indiana under a subsidiary company called the Grand Trunk Western Railway. Soon after, all switch locks and keys would be stamped GTW or GTW RR. Although this GT RY lock is not dated, it pre-dates the aforementioned consolidation.

History

The Grand Trunk Railway (reporting mark GT) was a railway system that operated in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Ontario and in the American states of Connecticut, Maine, Michigan, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The railway was operated from headquarters in Montreal, Quebec, with corporate headquarters in London, United Kingdom (4 Warwick House Street). It cost an estimated $160 million to build. The Grand Trunk, its subsidiaries, and the Canadian Government Railways were precursors of today's Canadian National Railway.

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Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad

GM&O Northern Division circa 1967 stee/brass switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 132      Price: $95.00

For Sale

A Gulf-Mobile & Ohio steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "GM&O-ND" are stamped on the front hasp. The back of the hasp has the numerical numbers "12 (December) 1967." Along with the attractive brass rivets, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark patina, which complements the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. A decent lock that still works great!

History

The Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad (reporting mark GMO) was a Class I railroad in the central United States whose primary routes extended from Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans, Louisiana, to St. Louis and Kansas City, Missouri, as well as Chicago, Illinois. From its two parallel lines through eastern Mississippi, the GM&O also served Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama, as well as Memphis, Tennessee. The Gulf, Mobile and Northern Railroad was created as the reorganization of the New Orleans, Mobile and Chicago Railroad in 1917. The GM&O was incorporated in 1938 to merge the Gulf, Mobile and Northern Railroad and the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, which was accomplished in 1940. The GM&O later bought and merged the Alton Railroad in 1947.

1967 Highlights

The Chicago Blizzard strikes with a record 23 inches of snowfall causing 800 buses and 50,000 automobiles to be abandoned. The United States Department of Transportation begins operation and the "Milton Berle Show" last airs on ABC-TV. The American Basketball Association is formed. The 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution is enacted. The body of U.S. President John F. Kennedy is moved to a permanent burial place at Arlington National Cemetery. Martin Luther King Jr. denounces the Vietnam War during his sermon at the Riverside Church in New York City.

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Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad

GM&O Southern Division circa 1953 steel/brass switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 133      Price: $175.00

For Sale

Is a Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad steel/brass switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "GM&O-SD" are stamped on the frontside hasp and "1953" on the backside. Along with the attractive brass rivets, Mother Nature has produced a medium charcoal gray patina, which complements the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. A very nice relic with a great key match!

1953 Highlights

Walt Disney's feature film Peter Pan premieres. James Watson and Francis Crick of the University of Cambridge announce their discovery of the structure of the DNA molecule. Frank Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle began their first recording sessions together at Capitol Records, which results in some of the defining recordings of Sinatra's career. The first Chevrolet Corvette is built at Flint, Michigan. US Court of Appeals rules that Organized Baseball is a sport & not a business, affirming the 25-year-old Supreme Court ruling.

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Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad

GM&O Northern Division steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 134      Price: $125.00

For Sale

Is another nice looking Gulf, Mobile & Ohio steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "ND" are stamped on the front hasp, and "GM&O" on the backside of the lock. Original chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching key make a fine pair.

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Great Northern Railway

GN circa 1966 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 137      Price: $160.00 $150.00

For Sale

This Great Northern steel/brass switch lock has held up well over the last 56 years. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "GN RY" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp, the year "1966 S" stamped on the back. The lock is in great shape, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Sporting it's original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.The matching GN key make a fine pair! A nice clean lock that has been well taken care of.

History

The Great Northern Railway (reporting mark GN) was an American Class I railroad. Running from Saint Paul, Minnesota, to Seattle, Washington, it was the creation of 19th-century railroad entrepreneur James J. Hill and was developed from the Saint Paul & Pacific Railroad. The Great Northern's route was the northernmost transcontinental railroad route in the U.S. In 1970, the Great Northern Railway merged with three other railroads to form the Burlington Northern Railroad, which merged in 1996 with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway to form the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway.

1966 Highlights

U.S. announces it will substantially increase its number of troops in Vietnam, while demonstrations are held across the United States against the war. Walt Disney dies while producing The Jungle Book, the last animated feature under his personal supervision. Miranda v. Arizona: The Supreme Court of the United States rules that the police must inform suspects of their rights before questioning them. The Monkees television series premieres on NBC. The Washington Redskins defeat the New York Giants 72-41 in the highest scoring game in National Football League history.

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Great Northern Railway

GN circa 1957 steel/brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $145.00

For Sale

Is this great looking Great Northern steel/brass switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "GN RY" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp, the year "1957 S" stamped on the back. Although the chain is not the original, a previous owner did a nice job adding one to it's keeper. The lock is in great shape, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching GN key make a fine pair! Another nice clean lock that has been well kept.

1957 Highlights

A continued growth of bigger taller tail fins on new cars and more lights, bigger with more powerful engines and an average car sold for $2,749. The Soviet Union launched the first space satellite Sputnik 1. Movies included "Twelve Angry Men" and "The Bridge Over the River Kwai," and TV showed "Perry Mason" and "Maverick" for the first time. The music continued to be Rock and Roll with artists like "Little Richard." The popular toys were Slinkys and Hula Hoops. The continued growth of the use of credit was shown by the fact that 2/3 of all new cars were bought on credit. Some of the areas that would cause problems later were starting to show South Vietnam is attacked by Viet Cong Guerrillas and Troops are sent to Arkansas to enforce anti segregation laws.

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Great Northern Railway

GN circa 1968 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 139      Price: $75.00

For Sale

An attractive GN steel switch lock and matching brass key. The handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. "Slaymake" forged, the initials "GN RY" are clearly stamped on the front hasp, the year "1968 S" stamped on the reverse. The lock is in good condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.

1968 Highlights

The year 1968 would bring much sadness to our country. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy was shot and critically wounded in Los Angeles hotel after winning California primary (June 5), dies June 6. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader, is slain in Memphis (April 4). On a lighter note, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In debuts on NBC. Album of the Year: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles.

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Great Northern Railway

GN circa 1942 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 140      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

What better than to own a relic from the WW2 era. For sale is a Great Northern steel/brass switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "GN RY" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp, the year "1942 S" stamped on the back. The lock is in great shape, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Original chain attached, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Slaymaker brass key make a great pair!

1942 Highlights

In the aftermath of the bombing of Pearl Harbor on (Dec.7th 1941) America is at war. In 1942 Nazi Germany reached its peak dominance in the Northern European war front, under the command of Adolf Hitler. The United States and Philippines troops fight the Battle of Bataan against Japanese forces. February 23 - WWII: Japanese submarine I-17 fires 17 high-explosive shells toward an oil refinery near Santa Barbara, California, causing little damage. November 26 - The movie Casablanca premières at the Hollywood Theater in New York City. A fire in the Cocoanut Grove night club in Boston, Massachusetts, kills 491. December 1 - Gasoline rationing begins in the United States. Below the bleachers of Stagg Field at the University of Chicago, a team led by Enrico Fermi initiates the first self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction (a coded message, "The Italian navigator has landed in the new world" is then sent to U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt).

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High Point Thomasville & Denton Railroad

HPT&D steel/brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $175.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

Is a High Point Thomasville & Denton steelbrass switch lock. "HPT&D" is stamped on the front of the hasp. Although there is no foundry stamp, my guess is "Yale" forged. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Still sporting its original chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Although the key is not the original, it works well with the lock. Similiar to the Southern "figure 8" locks, this set would be a nice addition to your showcase.

History

The High Point, Thomasville, and Denton Railroad (Reporting mark HPTD) was a 20-mile short-line railroad owned by the jointly CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railway owned Winston-Salem Southbound Railway (WSS). The Winston-Salem Southbound Railway, filed a request April 13, 2010, to merge the High Point, Thomasville, and Denton Railroad into the Winston-Salem Southbound Railway. The Surface Transportation Board published notice of this transaction April 16, 2010 to be effective May 1st. Norfolk Southern has a small yard in High Point at the beginning of the line.

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Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain Railroad

H&BTM steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 144      Price: $175.00

For Sale

A rare Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, this relic is in great condition. "H&BTM" is clearly stamped on the front of the hasp. Although this lock is not dated; judging from this style by Adlake, I would say very early 1900s. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The Fraim brass key make a handsome couple!

History

A coal hauler, the Huntingdon and Broad Top Mountain Railroad and Coal Company was chartered on May 6, 1852, and organized on January 10, 1853. The purpose of the line was to provide a rail link from Huntingdon to Bedford, and to provide a competitive alternate route to local coal producers to break the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's monopoly on coal that was being shipped from the Cumberland, Maryland, area. This company, with financial assistance from the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR), built a line from Mount Dallas to Hopewell in July 1863, connecting with the H&BTM. It was merged into the H&BTM on August 17, 1864. Total track mileage at the company's height was just over 72 miles. The Huntingdon and Broad Top Mountain Railroad declared bankruptcy on October 11, 1953, operated its last passenger train in November 1953 and ceased operations on March 31, 1954.

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Hocking Valley Railroad

HV brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 146      Price: $175.00 $145.00

For Sale

A very attractive cast brass Hocking Valley Railway switch lock set. "Bohannan" forged, the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The Hocking Valley brass key make a nice match.

History

The Hocking Valley Railway (reporting mark HV) was a railroad in the U.S. state of Ohio, with a main line from Toledo to Athens and Pomeroy via Columbus. It also had several branches to the coal mines of the Hocking Valley near Athens. The company became part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway system in 1910, and the line between Toledo and Columbus continues to see trains as CSX Transportation's Columbus Subdivision. Portions of the main line south of Columbus are now operated by the Indiana and Ohio Railway and Hocking Valley Scenic Railway.

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Illinois Central Railroad

IC circa 1962 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 148      Price: $95.00 $85.00

For Sale

A "Adlake" forged, very clean Illinois Central steel switch lock. The initials "IC RR" are clearly stamped on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers ""362" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "third quarter of 1962." The matching IC key make a great pair.

History

The Illinois Central Railroad (reporting mark IC), sometimes called the Main Line of Mid-America, is a railroad, (now CP) in the central United States, with its primary routes connecting Chicago, Illinois, with New Orleans, Louisiana, and Mobile, Alabama. The IC was one of the oldest Class I railroads in the United States. The company was incorporated by the Illinois General Assembly on January 16, 1836. Within a few months Rep. Zadok Casey (D-Illinois) introduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives authorizing a land grant to the company to construct a line from the mouth of the Ohio River to Chicago and on to Galena. Federal support, however, was not approved until 1850, when U.S. President Millard Fillmore signed a land grant for the construction of the railroad. The Illinois Central was the first land-grant railroad in the United States.

1962 Highlights

The United States embargo against Cuba is announced. Project Mercury: while aboard Friendship 7, John Glenn becomes the first American to orbit the Earth, three times in 4 hours, 55 minutes. The first Wal-Mart store opens for business in Rogers, Arkansas. Johnny Carson takes over as permanent host of NBC's The Tonight Show, a post he would hold for 30 years.

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Illinois Central Railroad

IC circa 1964 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 149      Price: $95.00 $85.00

For Sale

Two years younger than the IC lock above, is another very nice looking Illinois Central steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "IC RR" are clearly stamped on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "264" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1964." When possible, a very nice lock deserves a very nice key!

1964 Highlights

Plans to build the New York City World Trade Center are announced. Teamsters President Jimmy Hoffa is convicted by a federal jury of tampering with a federal jury in 1962. A Dallas, Texas, jury finds Jack Ruby guilty of killing John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. On February 9, 1964, the Beatles first appeared on the, Ed Sullivan show (73.7 million viewers). The space race was heating up between the US and Russia. Also, in 1964, the first Kennedy half dollar is issued. In sports, Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers southpaw, Sandy Koufax is first to strike out the side on 9 pitches.

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Illinois Central Railroad

IC steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 150      Price: $125.00

For Sale

Is a switch lock from one of America's favorite railroads, the Illinois Central Railroad. 'Adlake' forged, and original chain intact, "IC RR" is stamped on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The Adlake IC key make this a great match!

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Illinois Central Railroad

IC steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 151      Price: $125.00

For Sale

Is another well preserved switch lock from one of America's favorite railroads, the Illinois Central. "Adlake" forged, and original chain intact, "IC RR" is stamped on the back. The lock is in great condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.The Adlake IC key make a great match!

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Illinois Central Railroad

IC steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 152      Price: $75.00 $55.00

For Sale

Like "new." Is a steel "Keyline" forged, Illinois Central switch lock. The back of the lock is clearly stamped "IC RR." "Elkhart, IND" is stamped on the shackle. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. This IC lock has hardly been utilized. It is fair to say, that this could one of the last of the stamped IC locks forged prior to the Canadian National take over. The matching Keline IC key make a nice pair.

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Illinois Central Gulf Railroad

Lock Set: 153    repair track    Price: $95.00

For Sale

This polished brass ICG lock is like new! Forged by the "Hansl MFG. Co.", the lock is clearly stamped "ICG RR" on the hasp and "IC RR" on the key. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. As an added bonus, I have included a spare generic brass key. A very attractive set!

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Illinois Central Gulf Railroad

Lock Set: 154    repair track    Price: $95.00

For Sale

Another ICG signal lock, with a very nice dark patina. Forged by the "Hansl MFG. Co." the lock is clearly stamped "ICG RR" on the hasp and "ICG RR" on the key. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. As an added bonus, I have included a spare generic brass key. A nice strong medium purpose lock for around your house.

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Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad

IHB circa 1975 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 157      Price: $125.00

For Sale

One of the most underrated Belt lines in the U.S., which is still in operation. How many railroads today can boast roots since 1896. For sale is a "Adlake" forged steel switch lock. The initials "IHB" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "75." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The brass IHB key was made for this lock. Works great!

History

The IHB is an independent railroad which is jointly owned by Conrail Shared Assets Operations (51%) and Canadian Pacific Railway (49%). These shareholders trace their ownership stake in IHB to previous mergers and acquisitions in the railroad industry. Conrail's ownership is traced back to the Penn Central Transportation Company and prior to that, the New York Central Railroad and Pennsylvania Railroad. Canadian Pacific's ownership is through its subsidiary, the Soo Line, which inherited it from the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad (also known as the "Milwaukee Road"). Also, the IHB's northern terminus is the Milwaukee District/West Line in Franklin Park, Illinois, which is operated by Metra and Canadian Pacific.

1975 Highlights

Linda McCartney is charged in US with possession of marijuana. In 1975 Microsoft is founded as a partnership between Bill Gates and Paul Allen. "Wheel Of Fortune," debuts on NBC-tv while Gunsmoke goes off the the air. "Jaws," based on the book by Peter Benchley, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Roy Scheider is released. In sports, Giants pitcher John "the Count of" Montefusco wins NL Rookie of Year.

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Kansas City Public Service Railroad

KCPS circa 1947 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 159      Price: $245.00

For Sale

A very rare Kansas City Public Service switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "KCPS" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. There is a date stamp of "1947" on the backside of the hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp has great spring action. To latch, the key must be in the starting position. The matching KCPS Slaymaker key together make a very rare set for your lock collection.

History

The Kansas City Public Service Company was the most well known name for a series of public transit operators in Kansas City, Missouri, USA, until being sold to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in 1969.

1947 Highlights

Two years after WW2, the year 1947 brought many special events, to name a few: Jackie Robinson, the first African American baseball professional since the 1880s, signs a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Edaville Railroad is opened in Massachusetts as the first railway theme park. The movie Miracle on 34th Street, a Christmastime classic, is first shown in theaters. The Doomsday Clock of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is introduced. A moth lodged in a relay is found to be the cause of a malfunction in the Harvard Mark II electromechanical computer, logged as "First actual case of bug being found. The program Meet the Press makes its television debut on the NBC-TV network in the United States.

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Kansas City Southern

KCS circa 1956 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 161     Price: $185.00 $175.00

Note:

Some buyers get turned off when they see rust on a lock. Rust is a corrosion of iron and its alloys. Over the years, I've learned to keep my locks lightly oiled, which includes the chain. Oiling slows down the natural corrosion, and helps Mother Nature form a natural patina, such as this lock shown.

For Sale

A Kansas City Southern brass/steel switch lock set. "Slaymaker" forged, "KCS" is stamped on the front hasp, and the year "1956" on the reverse. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. A nice dark patina has begun radiating on the back, and if left outside, Mother Nature will complete the job. The lock is in good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp has good spring action. The hasp requires a little more pressure than usual to lock in its cradle.If the Surface Transportation Board appoves the CNR Railroad to purchase the KCS, the KCS relic prices will increase in value.

History

The Kansas City Southern Railway Company (KCS), owned by Kansas City Southern, is the smallest and second-oldest Class I railroad company still in operation. KCS was founded in 1887 and is currently operating in a region consisting of ten central U.S. states. KCS also owns and indirectly operates Kansas City Southern de Mexico (KCSM) in the central and northeastern states of Mexico, and is the only Class I Railroad to own any track both inside and outside of Mexico's boundaries. (Ferromex is the only other Class I operating in Mexico). Including all trackage owned by wholly owned subsidiaries, KCS owns a total of approximately 6,000 route miles of track.

1956 Highlights

Elvis Presley releases his first gold album titled Elvis Presley in the United States. The first episodes of As the World Turns and The Edge of Night are broadcast on the CBS Television Network in the United States. American actress Grace Kelly marries Rainier III, Prince of Monaco. The NBC Peacock logo debuts on television in the United States. A joint resolution of Congress is signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, authorizing "In God we trust" as the U.S. national motto. Elvis Presley appears on The Ed Sullivan Show in the United States for the first time. Cecil B. DeMille's epic film The Ten Commandments, starring Charlton Heston as Moses, is released in the United States. In sports: Baseball pitcher Don Larsen of the New York Yankees throws the only perfect game in World Series history, in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. Yogi Berra catches the game. Dale Mitchell is the final out. The New York Yankees win the series. Larsen is named series MVP.

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Lehigh Valley Railroad

LV circa 1963 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 163      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A steel Lehigh Valley switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "LV RR" are clearly stamped on the back of the lock. Sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "263" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1963." The matching LV brass key make a great duo!

History

The Lehigh Valley Railroad was one of a number of railroads built in the northeastern United States primarily to haul anthracite coal. On April 1, 1976, major portions of the assets of the bankrupt Lehigh Valley Railroad were acquired by Conrail.

1963 Highlights

The Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay closes; the last 27 prisoners are transferred elsewhere at the order of Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. John F. Kennedy assassination: In Dallas, President John F. Kennedy is shot to death. The Coca-Cola Company debuts its first diet drink, TaB cola. Songs "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "I Saw Her Standing There" are released in the U.S., marking the beginning of full-scale Beatlemania. The Pro Football Hall of Fame opens in Canton, Ohio with 17 charter members.

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Louisiana & Arkansas Railway

L&A steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 165      Price: $155.00 $145.00

For Sale

A Louisiana & Arkansas steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, "L&A" is clearly stamped on the back. The lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has its original spike chain. Both key and lock have great looking patina and make a very nice match!

History

The Louisiana and Arkansas Railway was a railroad that operated in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. The railroad's main line extended 332 miles, from Hope, Arkansas to Shreveport and New Orleans. The identity of the Louisiana & Arkansas gradually disappeared in the 1950s and 1960s, as the Kansas City Southern name was adopted for all properties. By 1966, all reference to the Louisiana & Arkansas had disappeared from the annual stockholder reports of Kansas City Southern.

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 167      Price: $195.00

For Sale

A beauty! For sale is a cast-brass Louisville & Nashville switch lock set. The dark brown patina compliments the overall appearance of the lock. The front side of the lock is clearly stamped in embossed raised letters "L&N RR." The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Factory key code numbers are stamped on one side of the hasp. The original L&N brass key make a handsome pair.

History

Chartered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in 1850, the road grew into one of the great success stories of American business. Operating under one name continuously for 132 years, it survived civil war and economic depression and several waves of social and technological change. Under Milton H. Smith, president of the company for thirty years, the L&N grew from a road with less than three hundred miles of track to a 6,000-mile system serving thirteen states. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $195.00

For Sale

A cast brass Louisville & Nashville switch lock set. The medium brown patina compliments the overall appearance. The front side of the lock is clearly stamped in embossed raised letters "L&N RR." The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Factory key code numbers are stamped on one side of the hasp. The original L&N brass key make a great looking lock set.

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 168      Price: $185.00

For Sale

A cast-brass Louisville & Nashville switch lock set. The light brown patina compliments the overall appearance. The front side of the lock is clearly stamped in embossed raised letters, "L&N RR." The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Factory key code numbers are stamped on it's hasp. The matching L&N brass key make another handsome couple!

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N circa 1929 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 169      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Right out of the "Roaring Twenties" era and for sale is a very attractive Louisville & Nashville steel switch lock. Along with attractive brass rivets, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark patina, which complement the overall appearance of the lock. The initials "L&N RR" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. The back of the hasp is stamped "E.T. Fraim Lock Co." with a date stamp of "2-29." The lock is in excellent working condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. With only a couple links of original chain attached, I have add a few more inches of chain. The Fraim forged L&N brass key, which is probably as old as the lock, make a very handsome set for your showcase. This L&N lock set and the set below, make a great 93 year old pair!

1929 Highlights

The last year of the "Roaring Twenties," 1929 ushered in the Chicago "St. Valentine's Day Massacre." The big stock market crash occured that year too, with the "Great Depression" soon to follow. In sports, NY Yankees become 1st team to wear uniform numbers. Through it all, the Louisville & Nashville survived and rolled on.

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N circa 1929 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 170      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Right out of the "Roaring Twenties" era and for sale is another very attractive Louisville & Nashville steel switch lock. Twin brother of the L&N lock above, Mother Nature has even replicated the dark patina. Still sporting its original spike chain, the brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The initials "L&N RR" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. The back of the hasp is stamped "E.T. Fraim Lock Co." with a date stamp of "2-29." The lock is in excellent working condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I once again matched the lock up with a very nice Fraim L&N brass key. This L&N lock set and the set above, make a great 93 year old pair!

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N circa 1965 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 171      Price: $135.00 $125.00

For Sale

Another attractive Louisville & Nashville steel switch lock. The initials "L&N R.R." are clearly stamped on the front hasp. Original chain still attached, the attractive brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock is in good working condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The back of the hasp is stamped "4 (April) 1965." The original Fraim-L&N brass key make a great pair.

1965 Highlights

The Chicago Blizzard strikes with a record 23 inches of snow fall causing 800 buses and 50,000 automobiles to be abandoned. The United States Department of Transportation begins operation and the "Milton Berle Show" last airs on ABC-TV. The American Basketball Association is formed. The 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution is enacted. The body of U.S. President John F. Kennedy is moved to a permanent burial place at Arlington National Cemetery. Martin Luther King Jr. denounces the Vietnam War during his sermon at the Riverside Church in New York City.

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Louisville & Nashville Railroad

L&N circa 1951 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 172      Price: $165.00

For Sale

A handsome Louisville & Nashville steel switch lock set. Original chain attached, the initials "L&N" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. Fourteen years older than the Slaymaker lock above, this lock stands out among others. The attractive brass rivets and hasp complement the overall appearance of the lock. The back of the hasp is stamped "6 (June) 1951." "E.T. Fraim" forged, the lock is in good working condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The original Fraim-L&N brass key make another great set!

1951 Highlights

The new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City. The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. Korean War: Armistice negotiations begin at Kaesong. The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than $13.3 billion USD in foreign aid to rebuild Europe. One of the greatest moments in Major League Baseball history occurs when the New York Giants' Bobby Thomson hits a game-winning home run in the bottom of the 9th inning off of Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca, to win the National League pennant after being down 14 games.

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Louisville & Nashville Signal Lock

L&N signal dept. brass lock set

Lock Set: 173    (4 available)    Price: $40.00-each
or 2 @ $70.00 or 4 @ $125.00

For Sale

Louisville & Nashville brass signal locks. "L&N" is clearly stamped on the body of the locks. They were forged by the (WRRSCo.) "Western Railroad Supply Co." The locks are all beauties and in great condition. A great addition for your signal lock showcase!

History

Western-Cullen-Hayes, Inc. was originally organized in 1855 as the American Signal Company. The product line was primarily devoted to the areas of signals and communications for the railroads. In 1889, it successfully developed and marketed the first automatic highway crossing bell warning device. This device was activated by the locomotive passing over, and closing a relay, which in turn activated the bell mechanism.

Over the years the Western-Cullen-Hayes Company exchanged ownership and in 1932 the Company changed it's name to the Western Railroad Supply Company. On June 26, 1936 the Company installed the first "Model 10" Automatic Grade Crossing Warning Barrier device.

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Maine Central Railroad

MC brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 175      Price: $225.00

For Sale

A beauty in it's own right and for sale, is this cast brass Maine Central switch lock and matching key. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The body of the lock is clearly stamped "MC RR" on one side and 'WB" (Bohanan initials) on the flip side. This lock is a "C" (car) type, which is stamped on the locks' hasp as well as on the key. The lock has its original 8 inch spike chain attached. A very nice pair!

History

The Maine Central Railroad Company (reporting mark MEC) was a former U. S. Class I railroad in central and southern Maine. It was chartered in 1856 and began operations in 1862. By 1884, Maine Central was the longest railroad in New England. The Maine Central remained independent until 1981, when it became part of what is now the Pan Am Railways network in 1981.

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Maine Central Railroad

Maine Central circa 1981 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 176      Price: $175.00 $160.00

The Maine Central Railroad Company was a former U.S. Class I railroad in central and southern Maine. It was chartered in 1856 and began operations in 1862. By 1884, Maine Central was the longest railroad in New England. The Maine Central remained independent until 1981, when it became part of what is now the Pan Am Railways network in 1981.

For Sale

A very nice Maine Central steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the lock is clearly stamped "MEC RR" with a stamped "81" year rivet on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, this lock is in fine working condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching MEC brass key make this another great lock set for your collection.

1981 Highlights

United States and Iranian officials sign an agreement to release 52 American hostages after 14 months of captivity. After 19 years hosting the CBS Evening News, Walter Cronkite signs off for the last time. U.S. President Ronald Reagan is shot in the chest outside a Washington, D.C. hotel by John Hinckley, Jr. Two police officers and Press Secretary James Brady are also wounded. Boxing: Muhammad Ali loses to Trevor Berbick; this proved to be Ali's last-ever fight.

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Minneapolis, Northfield & Southern Railway

MN&S circa 1980 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 178      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

Like new! A Minneapolis, Northfield & Southern Railway steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the lock is still sporting its original spike chain, and is in excellent condition. The initials "MN&S RY" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "80." The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching MN&S RY brass key makes this a perfect marriage!

History

The Minneapolis, Northfield & Southern Railway (reporting mark MNS) was an 87-mile-long (140 km) American short line railroad connecting Minneapolis and Northfield, Minnesota. It was incorporated in 1918 to take over the trackage of the former Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester and Dubuque Electric Traction Company, also known as the Dan Patch Lines. On 2 June 1982 it was acquired by the Soo Line Railroad, which operated it as a separate railroad until merging it on January 1, 1986.

1980 Highlights

The year 1980 witnessed many tragedies. March 31 1980 - Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad operates its final train. John Lennon is shot dead outside his apartment in New York City by Mark David Chapman. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens kills 57 and causes US$3 billion in damage.The Rubik's cube makes its international debut at The British Toy and Hobby Fair, Earl's Court, London. The first 24-hour news channel, Cable News Network (CNN) is launched. 1980 World Series - Philadelphia Phillies over Kansas City Royals (4-2).

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Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railway

aka  "The Soo Line"

MStP&SSM circa 1936 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 180      Price: $250.00

For Sale

The French always seem to have great sounding names. Here is a very nice Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie steel and brass switch lock. "Fraim" forged, the initials "MSTP&SSM RY" are stamped on front of the hasp. The initial's "CD" (Chicago Division) "SW" (Switch) and the year "1936" are stamped on the reverse. Along with the attractive brass rivets, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark patina, which complement's the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Sault Ste. Marie brass key make a great pair. A rare-complete set!

History

The Minneapolis, St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railroad (reporting mark SOO) was a Class I railroad subsidiary of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the Midwest United States. Commonly known since its opening in 1884 as the Soo Line after the phonetic spelling of Sault, it was merged with several other major CP subsidiaries on January 1, 1961, to form the Soo Line Railroad.

1936 Highlights

In 1936 the Santa Fe railroad inaugurates the all-Pullman Super Chief passenger train, between Chicago and Los Angeles. Construction of Hoover Dam is completed in the United States. Richard Hauptmann, convicted of the Lindbergh kidnapping and murder in 1932, is executed by electrocution in New Jersey State Prison. Margaret Mitchell's epic historical romance Gone with the Wind is first published in the United States. The 1936 Summer Olympics open in Berlin, Germany, and mark the first live television coverage of a sports event in world history.

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Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railway

aka  "The Soo Line"

MStP&SSM steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 181      Price: $225.00

For Sale

Another real beauty from the Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railroad. "Fraim" forged, the initials "MSTP&SSM RR" are clearly stamped on back of the hasp, and "WC" stamped on the reverse. The brass hasp and rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting the original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Another rare matching set!

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Montour Railway

Montour circa 1916 steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $295.00

For Sale

A first time offering is this 104 year old, Montour Railroad steel switch lock. The initials "M RY" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina, which complements the overall appearance of the lock. "Adlake" forged, the numerical numbers "116" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged in the "first quarter of 1916." Still sporting its original spike chain, the keeper moves freely. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Montour brass key make a great pair. A very rare lock set that will stand out in your showcase!

History

Chartered in 1877, the Montour Railroad is a former short line railroad company operating passenger and freight service on standard gauge track in southwestern Pennsylvania. At its height in the 1930s, the railroad served 27 mines transporting nearly seven million tons of coal annually in Allegheny and Washington Counties.

1916 Highlights

March 1916, witnessed Mexican General "Francisco Pancho Villa" invade the US (18 killed). In Europe, the Battle of Verdun in WW I begins (1 million casualties). In sports, Honus Wagner, 42, is oldest to hit an inside-the-park homerun and women are allowed to attend a boxing match. United States Army aircraft fly their first mission over foreign soil when Curtiss JN-3s of the 1st Aero Squadron carry out reconnaissance over Mexico. The Original Dixieland Jazz Band begin playing at Schiller's Cafe in Chicago. Here's an odd note inscribed in history, Mary, a circus elephant, is hanged in the town of Erwin, Tennessee for killing her handler, Walter "Red" Eldridge.

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Monon Railroad

aka  "The Chicago-Indianapolis & Louisville Railway"

Monon circa 1956 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 183      Price: 225.00 $200.00

For Sale

A popular railroad lock for sale is this Monon steel switch lock. "Monon" is stamped on the back of the lock."Adlake" forged, the numerical numbers "156" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged in the "first quarter of 1956." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The original Monon brass key make a great pair.

History

The Monon Railroad, also known as the Chicago-Indianapolis & Louisville Railway from 1897 to 1956, was an American railroad that operated almost entirely within the state of Indiana. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

1956 Highlights

Elvis Presley releases his first gold album titled Elvis Presley in the United States. The first episodes of As the World Turns and The Edge of Night are broadcast on the CBS Television Network in the United States. American actress Grace Kelly marries Rainier III, Prince of Monaco. The NBC Peacock logo debuts on television in the United States. A joint resolution of Congress is signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, authorizing "In God we trust" as the U.S. national motto. Elvis Presley appears on The Ed Sullivan Show in the United States for the first time. Cecil B. DeMille's epic film The Ten Commandments, starring Charlton Heston as Moses, is released in the United States. In sports: Baseball pitcher Don Larsen of the New York Yankees throws the only perfect game in World Series history, in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. Yogi Berra catches the game. Dale Mitchell is the final out. The New York Yankees win the series. Larsen is named series MVP.

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Monon Railroad

aka  "The Chicago-Indianapolis & Louisville Railway"

Monon steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $150.00

For Sale

Another nice looking Monon steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "Monon" is clearly stamped on the back of the lock. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The original Monon brass key works well with the lock. For those who prefer railroad locks without chains, this set is a nice one!

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Missouri, Kansas, & Texas Railroad

aka  "The Katy"

MKT steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 186      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A very nice KATY steel switch lock. "Keyline" forged, the back of the lock is clearly stamped "MKT RR." Sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Katy brass switch key make this another fine set for your lock collection.

History

The Missouri, Kansas, & Texas Railroad (reporting mark MKT) was a former Class I railroad company in the United States, with its last headquarters in Dallas. Established in 1865 under the name Union Pacific Railway, Southern Branch, it came to serve an extensive rail network in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. In 1988, it merged with the Missouri Pacific Railroad and is now part of Union Pacific Railroad.

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Missouri, Kansas, & Texas Railroad

aka  "The Katy"

MKT circa 1980 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 187      Price: $185.00

For Sale

Another great looking KATY lock for sale is this "Adlake" steel switch lock. "MKT RR" is clearly stamped on the back of the lock, along with a stamped year rivet "80." Sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Katy switch key make a perfect couple.

1980 Highlights

The year 1980 brought with it some tragedies. March 31 1980 - Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad operates its final train. John Lennon is shot dead outside his apartment in New York City by Mark David Chapman. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens kills 57 and causes US$3 billion in damage. The Rubik's cube makes its international debut at The British Toy and Hobby Fair, Earl's Court, London. The first 24-hour news channel, Cable News Network (CNN) is launched. 1980 World Series - Philadelphia Phillies over Kansas City Royals (4-2).

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MoPac Railroad

aka  "The Missouri Pacific Railroad"

MO-PAC circa 1983 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 190      Price: $95.00

For Sale

Swallowed up by the Union Pacific (the "BIG MOP UP") the Missouri Pacific Railroad is another collector's favorite. For sale is an "Adlake" forged steel switch lock. The back of the lock is clearly stamped "MOPAC" along with a stamped year rivet "83." Sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in great condition the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching brass MoPac key make a fine pair.

History

The Missouri Pacific Railroad (reporting mark MP), commonly abbreviated as MoPac, was one of the first railroads in the United States west of the Mississippi River. MoPac was a Class I railroad growing from dozens of predecessors and mergers. In 1967, the railroad operated 9,041 miles of road and 13,318 miles of track, not including DK&S, NO&LC, T&P, and its subsidiaries C&EI and Missouri-Illinois. Union Pacific Corporation, the parent company of the Union Pacific Railroad, agreed to buy the Missouri Pacific Railroad on January 8, 1980.

1983 Highlights

Five people are killed and 18 others injured when a road train is deliberately driven into a motel at Ayers Rock, NT (the driver, Douglas Edward Crabbe, is convicted in March 1984). Vanessa L. Williams becomes the first African American to be crowned Miss America, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. President Ronald Reagan signs a bill creating a federal holiday on the third Monday of every January to honor American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Washington Redskins beat the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.

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MoPac Railroad

aka  "The Missouri Pacific Railroad"

MO-PAC circa 1953 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 191      Price: $155.00 $145.00

For Sale

Another nice MoPac lock set for sale is this "Slaymaker" forged steel lock. "MoPac RR" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp, and "1953 - S" on the backside. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. In great condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching brass Slaymaker-MoPac key make a great looking pair!

1953 Highlights

Walt Disney's feature film Peter Pan premieres. James Watson and Francis Crick of the University of Cambridge announce their discovery of the structure of the DNA molecule. Frank Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle began their first recording sessions together at Capitol Records, which results in some of the defining recordings of Sinatra's career. The first Chevrolet Corvette is built at Flint, Michigan. US Court of Appeals rules that Organized Baseball is a sport & not a business, affirming the 25-year-old Supreme Court ruling.

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MoPac Railroad

aka  "The Missouri Pacific Railroad"

MO-PAC circa 1963 MofW steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 193      Price: $145.00

For Sale

A MoPac steel/brass switch lock stamped "MP MW." "Slaymaker" forged, the back of the hasp is clearly stamped "1968." Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The matching MofW brass Slaymaker key make a perfect match. This set + the set above = great pair!

1963 Highlights

A tragic day in American history as news cameras captured the assassination of US President Kennedy on November 22nd. This sad day thrust Lyndon Johnson into the role of president and the murder two days later of Lee Harvey Oswald by nightclub owner Jack Ruby. The year 1963 saw the steam locomotive Flying Scotsman (British Railways No. 60103) makes its last scheduled run, before going into the hands of Alan Pegler for preservation. The long-running soap opera General Hospital debuts on ABC Television in the United States. The United States Postal Service launches the ZIP Code System.

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Mobile & Ohio Railroad

M&O steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 195      Price: $115.00

For Sale

A great looking Mobile & Ohio cast steel switch lock. "Fraim" forged, the initials "M&O RR" are lightly stamped on the hasp. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The brass GM&O key (great serial #1111) works well with the lock. A unique steel relic!

History

The Mobile & Ohio Railroad was a railroad in the Southern U.S. The M&O was chartered in January and February 1848 by the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It was planned to span the distance between the seaport of Mobile, Alabama and the Ohio River near Cairo, Illinois. On September 13, 1940 it was merged with the Gulf-Mobile and Northern Railroad to form the Gulf-Mobile & Ohio Railroad.

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New York Central Systems

NYC steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 197      Price: $155.00 $145.00

For Sale

A very nice New York Central steel and brass combo switch lock. "'Fraim" forged, "NYCS" is clearly stamped on the front brass hasp. Exposed to the elements, Mother Nature has produced a very nice dark patina. The dark brass hasp and brass rivets complement the locks' overall appearance. Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action; the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching brass key make this another very handsome set!

History

The New York Central Railroad (reporting mark NYC) was a railroad primarily operating in the Great Lakes and Mid Atlantic regions of the United States. The railroad primarily connected greater New York and Boston in the east with Chicago and St. Louis in the Midwest along with the intermediate cities of Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Detroit. New York Central was headquartered in New York City's New York Central Building, adjacent to its largest station, Grand Central Terminal. The railroad was established in 1853, consolidating several existing railroad companies. In 1968, the NYC merged with its former rival, the Pennsylvania Railroad, to form Penn Central. Penn Central went bankrupt in 1970 and merged into Conrail in 1976. Conrail was broken-up in 1999, and portions of its system were transferred to CSX and Norfolk Southern Railway, with CSX acquiring most of the old New York Central trackage.

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New York Central Systems

NYCS steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 198      Price: $125.00 $110.00

For Sale

A well taken care of New York Central steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "NYCS" is clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has excellent spring action. The matching NYCS brass key make a very fine duo. A nice clean lock set!

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New York Central Systems

NYCS circa 1938 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 199      Price: $175.00

For Sale

A handsome New York Central steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "NYCS" is clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "238" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1938." Still sporting its original spike chain, it opens and latches well. The lock has aged well and sports a handsome dark patina. Having more than a few NYC keys, this key worked the best! A very nice set!

1938 Highlights

Orson Welles broadcasts his adaptation of H.G. Wells's War of the Worlds, creating a nationwide panic as listeners believe that aliens have landed in New Jersey (Oct. 30). DuPont announces a name for its new synthetic yarn, "nylon." A nylon bristle toothbrush becomes the first commercial product to be made with nylon yarn. The minimum wage is established by law in the United States. Winston Churchill, in a broadcast address to the United States, condemns the Munich Agreement as a defeat, and calls upon America and Western Europe to prepare for armed resistance against Hitler. In baseball: 1938 World Series - New York Yankees defeat the Chicago Cubs, 4-0.

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New York Central Systems

NYCS Moon steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 200      Price: $185.00 $175.00

For Sale

A rare New York Central ™Moon steel switch lock set. "Corbin" forged, the lock is in excellent condition. Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark patina, which enhances the beauty of the lock. "NYCS" and "Moon" are stamped on the front. Still sporting its original spike chain, its drop cover is snug and has good spring action; the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. his Moon lock would not be complete without a handsome Moon key!

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New York Central Systems Railroad

NYCS steel tool house lock and brass key set

Lock Set: 201      Price: $65.00 $50.00

For sale is a New York Central "Tool House" lock. "NYCS" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. Smaller in size than most TH locks, its in great working condition, the hasp unlocks and latches with ease. As shown in the picture, "TH" is stamped on the backside hasp. There is no visible manufactuer's logo, but my guess would be "Corbin" forged. I tried other tool house keys, but the original pocket worn key (in picture) worked the best. A nice medium size lock to secure your goods.

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New York Central Systems

NYCS steel tool house lock and brass key set

Lock Set: 202      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

An over-looked sharp looking lock, is this New York Central Tool House steel lock. "Bohannan" forged, "NYCS" is clearly stamped on the back hasp and "TH" on the reverse. The lock is the size of a (cast brass) switch lock and is in great working condition. The lock has a very nice charcoal gray patina. Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug with excellent spring action, the hasp unlocks and latches with ease. The matching sharp-looking tool house key make a great pair.

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New York Central Systems

NYCS repair track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 203     Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

A rare New York Central Car Repair switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initial's "NYCS" are clearly stamp on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The great looking "NYC RT" brass key is the perfect match!

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New York Central Railroad

NYC brass Signal Dept. lock set

Lock Set: 204      Price: $75.00

For Sale

A great looking brass NYC signal lock. "Corbin" forged, the hasp pops right open when you turn the key and locks securely. The key is most likely a copy. A nice all around security lock.

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New York & Long Branch Railroad

NY&LB brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $245.00 $225.00

For Sale

You have to marvel at the way a 150 year old lock works like it was forged yesterday. For sale is a New York & Long Branch brass lock set. Forged by one of the early lock masters, "Thomas Slaight." The back of the lock is stamped "NY&LB RR - S." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching NY&LB brass key make a fine couple!

History

Chartered in 1868, the New York & Long Branch Railroad (NYLB) was a railroad in central New Jersey, running from Bay Head Junction in Bay Head to Perth Amboy, where it connected to the Central Railroad of New Jersey's Perth Amboy & Elizabethport Railroad. The railroad was jointly owned and operated by the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Central Railroad of New Jersey and became property of Conrail in 1976. It is now part of New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line.

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Nickel Plate Road

Post NKP/W&LE merger steel switch lock and brass key set

Lock Set: 209      Price: $150.00 $125.00

For Sale

A very nice "Adlake" steel switch lock stamped NKP, which is actually an Wheeling & Lake Erie incognito. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Note: Lock will also work with a W&LE key. Most likely used in Ohio's coal fields, the lock has a nice "coal gray" patina. Ohio's own!

History

The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad was leased to the NKP in 1949, and merged into the N&W Railway in 1988. The Wheeling brought to the Nickel Plate a gateway to the mid-Atlantic states, access to many coal fields the Wheeling traversed, and the Nickel Plate's first lake port.

The New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad (reporting mark NKP), abbreviated NYC&St.L, was a railroad that operated in the mid-central United States. Commonly referred to as the "Nickel Plate Road", the railroad served parts of the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Its primary connections occurred in Buffalo, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Toledo.

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Nickel Plate Road

aka "The New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad"

NKP track dept. steel/brass lock set

Lock Set: 210     Price: $150.00 $125.00

For Sale

Is a very rare Nickel Plate Track Dept. switch lock set. "Corbin" forged, "NKP TD" is clearly stamped on frontside hasp. The key code numerical number "100" is stamped on the backside hasp. Having a style of its own, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock still has its original, 15" double knotted galvanized spike chain attached. This is the first time I've come across an NKP track department lock. The lock is larger than your average railroad utility lock, but a tad smaller than a switch lock.The brass unmarked key works like the lock was made for it. A unique handsome set!

View side by side comparison

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Nickel Plate Railroad

aka "The New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad"

NKP steel/ brass utility lock set

Lock Set: 211      Price: $100.00

For Sale

A very nice mid size railroad lock. "Fraim" forged, "NKP" is clearly stamped on frontside hasp. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The face of the locks' dark discoloration, is the work of Mother Nature. Although the key is not the original, it does work well with the lock. A very nice medium size lock and a great collectors item.

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NKP Railroad

aka  "The New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad"

NKP brass signal dept. lock set

Lock Set: 212      Price: $75.00

For Sale

A great looking brass NKP signal lock. "Yale" forged, the hasp pops right open when you turn the key and locks securely. The key is most likely a copy. A nice all around security lock.

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Norfolk Southern Railroad

NS- steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Here's a lock off a fallen flag that you do not see that often. "Adlake" forged, the lock is still sporting its original spike chain, and is in excellent condition. The initials "NS RR" are clearly stamped on the back The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching NS brass key make a great looking set!

History

The Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) was the final name of a railroad that ran from Norfolk, Virginia, southwest and west to Charlotte, North Carolina. It was acquired by the Southern Railway in 1974, which merged with the Norfolk & Western Railway in 1982 to form the current Norfolk Southern Railway.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W steel utility lock set

Lock Set: 216      Price: $95.00

For Sale

Made by the American lock company, an N&W long-shank, steel utility lock set. "N&W" is clearly stamped on the body. The hasp the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I know for a fact, this style of utility lock was used for industry gates. A great heavy duty lock to secure your goods!

History

The Norfolk & Western Railway (reporting mark N&W), was a US class I railroad, formed by more than 200 railroad mergers between 1838 and 1982. It was headquartered in Roanoke, Virginia, for most of its 150-year existence. Its motto was "Precision Transportation," it had a variety of nicknames, including "King Coal" and "British Railway of America" even though the N&W had mostly articulated steam on its roster. During the Civil War, the N&W was the biggest railroad in the south and moved most of the products with their steam locomotives to help the South the best way they could. In 1980, the N&W merged its business operation with those of the Southern Railway, another profitable carrier to create the Norfolk Southern Corporation holding company. The N&W and the Southern Railway continued as separate railroads operating under a single holding company.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W/Wabash post merger circa 1975 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 217      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

A N&W steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "N&W" is clearly stamped on the back with a year rivet "75." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug (it slides a bit high) and has good spring action. The hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Due to the N&W-Nickel Plate and Wabash merger, this lock requires a Wabash style key (as pictured). A nice post merger N&W lock set. On a personal note: In the late 70's, the N&W was still utilizing the post merger locks on the former Wabash main line in Chicago. As a new N&W hire, switchman on the extra board had to protect both Wabash and NKP jobs, which I did. Same Adlake lock as below only with a (Wabash) style drop. This post-merger lock + post-merger lock below = nice pair!

1975 Highlights

America had the Watergate scandal: John N. Mitchell, H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman are found guilty of the Watergate cover-up. The unemployment rate peaks at 9.0% ending the Post-War Boom. In Detroit, Michigan, Teamsters Union president Jimmy Hoffa is reported missing. U.S. President Gerald Ford survives a second assassination attempt, this time by Sara Jane Moore in San Francisco. Thrilla in Manila: Muhammad Ali defeats Joe Frazier in a boxing match in Manila, Philippines.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W (nee NKP ) circa 1975 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 218      Price: $75.00 $55.00

For Sale

My home N&W terminal was a former NKP (Calumet) yard. Having hired out in 1974, I opened many of just this style of N&W locks. This is N&W/NKP post-merger lock. "Adlake" forged, "N&W" is clearly stamped on the back along with a year rivet "75." The brass spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The N&W (NKP) matching key make the set complete! Same Adlake lock as above only with a N&W (NKP) style drop. This post-merger lock + post-merger lock above = nice pair!

1975 Highlights

America's Recession continued into 1975. I was still furloughed from the N&W; I witnessed Chrysler Corp offer the 1st car rebates. Jackie Wilson, slips into an irreversible coma; he dies in 1984. Vietnam War: Operation Frequent Wind: The U.S. begins to evacuate US citizens from Saigon prior to an expected North Vietnamese takeover. U.S. involvement in the war comes to an end. In sports, on June 12, Billy Williams's hit his 400th career HR and Billy Martin fired as Texas Rangers manager.

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Norfolk & Western Railway

N&W circa 1944 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 219      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

A WW2 era Norfolk & Western steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, "N&W" is stamped on the frontside hasp, and "1944" on the reverse. The attractive brass/steel rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The matching Slaymaker-N&W brass key make a perfect marriage. A handsome looking lock set from a Civil War Railroad, with a whole lot of history!

1944 Highlights

The war was raging in Europe and the Pacific. June 6 - WWII - D-Day: 155,000 Allied troops shipped from England land on the beaches of Normandy in northern France, beginning Operation Overlord and the Invasion of Normandy. The United States Forest Service and the Wartime Advertising Council release the first posters featuring Smokey Bear. General Douglas MacArthur becomes the second U.S. Five-Star General.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W circa 1968 repair track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 220      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

An attractive "Slaymaker" forged, "Norfolk & Western," repair track steel switch lock. When I purchased this set, the lock was in sad condition and needed a face lift. Utilized on the N&W's rip track switches, the lock was painted blue. Years of being exposed to the elements, most of the blue paint was gone. What blue paint remained, was badly faded and the dried paint chips were falling off every time I handled the lock. Thanks to the paint, the lock was well preserved, thus the fresh look. This lock is 24 years younger then the N&W lock above. All cleaned up and ready for show, the lock is now in great condition. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. "N&W" is clearly stamped on the front hasp and "1968" on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The stamped repair track key, which alone are rare, make a great marriage.

1968 Highlights

1968 Highlights The year 1968 witnessed Sen. Robert F. Kennedy shot and critically wounded in Los Angeles hotel after winning California primary (June 5), dies June 6. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader, is slain in Memphis (April 4). On a lighter note, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In debuts on NBC. Album of the Year: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 221      Price: $125.00 $110.00

For Sale

A very attractive Norfolk & Western brass switch lock set. The lock has been polished, and is in great condition. "Adlake" forged, the initials "N&W" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The N&W brass key works great.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 222      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

Another very attractive Norfolk & Western brass switch lock set. The initials "N&W" are clearly stamped on the back. "Adlake" forged, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Having only a few links of original spike chain, I've attached a few more links, which blends in very nicely. A great looking lock set that will last another 100 years!

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Norfolk & Western Railway

N&W cast-brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 223      Price: $215.00 $195.00

For Sale

Popular among collectors are the N&W cast-brass switch locks. Although there are no visible foundry stamp marks (see lock below), the lock is most likely "Fraim/Slaymaker" forged. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has its original spike chain attached. The key works great with the lock and make a very nice set!

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Norfolk & Western Railway

N&W circa 1921 cast-brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 224      Price: $275.00 $245.00

For Sale

Celebrating a 101st birthday, for sale is this very rare cast-brass N&W switch lock. "Fraim/Slaymaker" forged, this centenarian is still sporting its original spike chain. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The year "1921" is stamped on it's frontside hasp. I've paired the lock up with a very nice Fraim/Slaymaker brass key. Another great looking N&W relic!

1921 Highlights

Warren G. Harding is sworn in as the 29th President of the United States. Former President of the United States William Howard Taft is sworn in as Chief Justice of the United States, making him the only person ever to hold both positions. In Atlantic City, New Jersey, the first Miss America Pageant is held. The Chicago Theatre, the oldest surviving grand movie palace, opens. In baseball: the first radio baseball game is broadcast; Harold Arlin announces the Pirates-Phillies game from Forbes Field over Westinghouse KDKA, in Pittsburgh.

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Norfolk & Western Railway

N&W cast-brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 225      Price: $215.00 $175.00

For Sale

Like new! N&W cast-brass fancy back switch lock. Although there are no visible foundry stamp marks, the lock has all the characteristics of being "Adlake or Fraim" forged. The lock seems to have seen little if any railroad service. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Sporting its original "like new" spike chain, the keeper moves freely in either direction. The very nice Slaymaker-N&W matching brass key make another attractive couple!

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Norfolk & Western Railway

N&W circa 1965 cast-brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 226      Price: $215.00 $175.00

For Sale

Another very nice N&W sweetheart lock. Although there are no visible foundry stamp marks, the lock is most likely Fraim or Adlake forged. The lock still has its original chain attached and works well. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've paired the lock up with a very nice Fraim/Slaymaker brass key. A great looking N&W relic!

1965 Highlights

The year 1965 made history when Lyndon B. Johnson is sworn in for a full term as President of the United States. Vietnam War: Some 3,500 United States Marines arrive in Da Nang, South Vietnam, becoming the first American ground combat troops in Vietnam. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others lead 3,200 civil rights activists in the third march from Selma, Alabama, to the capitol in Montgomery. The soap opera Days of Our Lives debuts on NBC in the United States.

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Norfolk & Western Railroad

N&W signal dept. brass lock set

Lock Set: 227      Price: $75.00

For Sale

A Norfolk & Western Railroad signal lock set. "N&W Signal Dept." is clearly stamped on the front. The "Yale" trademark is stamped on the back. The lock is in great condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The key is most likely a copy but works great. Nice!

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Northern Alabama Railroad

NA circa 1800s brass signal lock set

Lock Set: 229      Price: $175.00 $145.00

For Sale

A rare all-brass Northern Alabama Railroad (merged into the Southern Railroad) signal box lock set. It's somewhat unusual for a railroad signal lock, to be the same size as a switch lock, for they are usually smaller in size. Forged by the 'Adams & Westlake Co.,' "NA SIGNAL" is clearly stamped on frontside hasp. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The key is not the original but works well with the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. A nice Southern relic!

History

The Northern Alabama Railroad was owned by the Southern Railway and absorbed into the Southern 1939.

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Norfolk & Portsmouth (Belt Line) Railroad

N&P brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 231      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A Norfolk & Portsmouth Railroad brass switch lock set. "Yale" forged, "N&P RR" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. This "waffle" style lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. It almost seems like the lock just left the foundry yesterday, it reveals to have seen little, if any service. Still sporting its original spike chain, the keeper moves freely. The N&P brass key make this another nice set.

History

The Norfolk and Portsmouth Belt Line Railroad is a class III railroad operating in southern Virginia. The NPBL serves Norfolk, Portsmouth and Chesapeake and has been operating since 1896. It is a Class III terminal switching railroad, incorporated in the State of Virginia as the Southeastern and Atlantic Railroad Company on March 4, 1896, currently operating over 26 miles of road in the Hampton Roads communities of Norfolk, Portsmouth and Chesapeake.

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Northern Pacific Railroad

NP circa 1951 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 235      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A great looking Northern Pacific steel switch lock. Stamped on this 1951 lock is "Northern Pacific Switch" spelled out and not abbreviated like the "NP" stamped on the lock below. I suppose seven years make a difference. The numerical numbers "151" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1951." "Adlake" forged, the original spike chain is attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I paired this relic up with a very nice NP brass key that looks as old as the lock!

1951 Highlights

In 1951, the new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City. The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than $13.3 billion USD in foreign aid to rebuild Europe.

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Northern Pacific Railroad

NP circa 1958 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 236      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

A Northern Pacific steel switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the lock is clearly stamped "NP SWITCH" on the backside. The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "158" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1958." Like the NP lock, the brass key is also stamped "NP SWITCH." A very nice lock set!

History

The Northern Pacific Railway (reporting mark NP) was a transcontinental railroad that operated across the northern tier of the western United States, from Minnesota to the Pacific Northwest. It was approved by Congress in 1864 and given nearly forty million acres (62,000 sq mi; 160,000 km2) of land grants, which it used to raise money in Europe for construction. Congress chartered the Northern Pacific Railway Company on July 2, 1864, with the goals of connecting the Great Lakes with Puget Sound on the Pacific, opening vast new lands for farming, ranching, lumbering and mining, and linking Washington and Oregon to the rest of the country.

In later years, Louis W. Menk became president of the Northern Pacific, and then he brought it together with the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, the Great Northern Railway, and the Spokane, Portland and Seattle Railway on March 2, 1970, to form the Burlington Northern Railroad.

1958 Highlights

The first successful American satellite, Explorer 1, is launched into orbit. Ruth Carol Taylor is the first African American woman hired as a flight attendant. Working for Mohawk Airlines, her career lasts only six months, due to another discriminatory barrier - the airline's ban on married flight attendants. Unemployment in Detroit reaches 20%, marking the height of the Recession of 1958 in the United States. The plastic hula hoop is first marketed. Have Gun Will Travel debuts on American radio.

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Northern Pacific Railroad

NP steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 237      Price: $75.00

For Sale

Another eye catching Northern Pacific steel switch lock for sale. "Adlake" forged, "NP SWITCH" is clearly stamped on the back. Original chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The Northern Pacific brass key make a very nice match!

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Northwestern Elevated Railroad

NW-L brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 239      Price: $285.00

First Time Offering

For Sale

Here's a great looking Chicago L relic that hardly ever comes on the market. Forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co.," the lock is is stamped "NWL RR" on the frontside hasp. The lock has seen a lot of service but is still in great condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. The matching NW-L key make a fine pair. Note: brother to the Chicago's South Side Elevated Railroad (SSE).

History

Last of the privately constructed rapid transit lines to be built in Chicago, the Northwestern Elevated Railroad Company was incorporated on October 30, 1893, and on January 8, 1894, it was granted a 50-year franchise by the City of Chicago. The original franchise stipulated that service between a downtown location to the south of the Chicago River and Wilson Avenue was to begin by December 31, 1897. This franchise was altered in 1895 to allow the line to connect to the new Union Loop. The deadline for completion was later extended to May 31, 1899.

Must Read

In order to meet the franchise requirements, an inaugural train ran north from the Loop on December 31, 1899. On January 1, 1900, city officials declared that the railroad was unsafe and that the franchise had expired. Defiantly, the company ran another train the next day. Police stopped the train and arrested the crew, but company officials took the controls and managed to run the train into the Loop. In order to stop its return, police opened the Wells Street bridge and blocked the track with railroad ties, but the officials managed to evade the police by having the train switched on to the Lake Street Elevated Railroad. Eventually the company reached a new agreement with the city, and the first 6.41-mile section of the railroad was officially opened on May 31, 1900.

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Pan American Railway

PA Ry circa 1980 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 241      Price: $45.00

For Sale

A very nice Pan American steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock is in great shape, and has its original spike chain attached. Although the key is not the original, it works well with the lock.

History

In 1983, Guilford Transportation Industries (GTI) purchased the bankrupt Boston & Maine (B&M). In 1998 GTI purchased Pan Am Airways from bankruptcy and revived the airline. In 2006 the railroad was rebranded as Pan Am as well. Today the railroad is more vibrant than ever, succeeding in a region where many rail operators have failed, by making sound investments and a focus on the long term.

1980 Highlights

Lots of Railroad events for the year 1980: The Staggers Rail Act of 1980 is a United States federal law that deregulated the American railroad industry to a significant extent, and it replaced the regulatory structure that had existed since the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887. The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad is ordered liquidated due to bankruptcy and debt owed to creditors. March 31 - Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad operates its final train. In 1980, the N&W teamed with the Southern Railway, another profitable carrier and created the Norfolk Southern Corporation holding company by merging its business operations with the business operations of the Southern Railway. The N&W and the Southern Railway continued as separate railroads now under one holding company.

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Pacific Electric Railway

PE circa 1951 steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $225.00

For Sale

A rare Pacific Electric steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "PE RY" is clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "251" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1951." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. A Fraim-PE brass key works well with this relic! A California interurban favorite!

History

The Pacific Electric Railway Company, nicknamed the Red Cars, was a privately owned mass transit system in Southern California consisting of electrically powered streetcars, interurban cars, and buses and was the largest electric railway system in the world in the 1920s. Organized around the city centers of Los Angeles and San Bernardino, it connected cities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County and Riverside County. Dates of operation: 1901-1961

1951 Highlights

The new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City. The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. Korean War: Armistice negotiations begin at Kaesong. The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than $13.3 billion USD in foreign aid to rebuild Europe. One of the greatest moments in Major League Baseball history occurs when the New York Giants' Bobby Thomson hits a game-winning home run in the bottom of the 9th inning off of Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca, to win the National League pennant after being down 14 games.

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Pennsylvania Railroad

aka "The Pennsy"

PRR circa 1957 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 246      Price: $125.00 $115.00

For Sale

A steel Pennsylvania switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the frontside hasp is clearly stamped with the initials "PRR." Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Nice clean Pennsy lock set!

History

The Pennsylvania Railroad (reporting mark PRR, legal name The Pennsylvania Railroad Company, also known as the "Pennsy") was an American Class I railroad that was established in 1846 and was headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Over the years, it acquired, merged with or owned part of at least 800 other rail lines and companies. In 1968, the Pennsylvania Railroad merged with its rival New York Central Railroad and the railroad eventually went by the name of Penn Central Transportation Company, or "Penn Central" for short. The former competitors’ networks integrated poorly with each other, and the railroad filed for bankruptcy within two years. Bankruptcy continued and on April 1, 1976, the railroad gave up its railroad assets, along with the assets of several other failing northeastern railroads, to a new railroad named Consolidated Rail Corporation, or Conrail for short.

1957 Highlights

The Department of Transportation begins operation. Ronald Reagan, past movie actor and future President of the U.S., is inaugurated the new governor of California. Jimmy Hoffa begins his 8-year sentence for attempting to bribe a jury. The Twenty-fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution is enacted. Super Bowl I: The Green Bay Packers defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

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Penn Central Railroad

PC brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 247      Price: $95.00 $65.00

For Sale

An "Adlake" brass switch lock with the brass PC stamped key. One of six railroads that formed Conrail in 1976, the lock is clearly stamped "PC RR" on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I believe the manufacturing of these brass locks was the last of the Adlake ornate locks forged. A nice chain-less lock set!

History

The Penn Central Transportation Company, was an American Class I railroad headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, that operated from 1968 until 1976. It was created by the 1968 merger of the Pennsylvania and New York Central railroads. The New York-New Haven & Hartford Railroad was added to the merger in 1969; by 1970, the company had filed for what was, at that time, the largest bankruptcy in U.S. history.

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Penna Co.

aka "The Pennsy"

Penna cast brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 248      Price: $175.00 $145.00

For Sale

A very attractive Penna (Pennsylvania) brass car lock. Some poor fool who did not know any better had painted this lock. Restored to it's original color, the lock is in good condition. "Bohannan" forged, "Penna Co." is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. I paired the lock up with a very nice Bohannan "C" stamped Penna brass key. A great looking Pennsy set!

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Peninsula Terminal Co.

PT brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 251      Price: $125.00 $100.00

An attractive lock set for sale is this 'Adlake' forged Peninsula Terminal Co. brass switch lock set. A short line railroad located in Portland Oregon, this Peninsula Terminal lock is in excellent working condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The initials "PT Co" are clearly stamped on the back. An original brass PT CO. key make this set complete!

History

The railroad was incorporated in 1916, and was leased to UP and Spokane-Portland & Seattle Railroad until 1931. It is now owned by Larry Kirkeby and John Manos, effective July 1, 1994.

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Pittsburgh-Chartiers & Youghiogheny Railway

PC&Y circa 1952 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 253      Price: $150.00 $125.00

For Sale

A Pittsburgh-Chartiers & Youghiogheny Railway steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "PC&Y" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "452" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "fourth quarter of 1952." Although the key is not the original, it works well with the lock.

History

Chartered in 1881, the PC&Y was a freight connection railroad owned jointly by the Pennsy and the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie. Still in use today, the PC&Y Railroad Bridge is a single track over the Ohio River, between Stowe Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania and Neville Island.

1952 Highlights

In 1952 America is six years into the "baby boomer" era, the "Today Show" premieres with Dave Garroway & Jack Lescoulie on NBC-TV. 1952 also saw the 1st landing by an airplane at the North Pole. In sports, Rocky Marciano KOs Jersey Joe Walcott in 13 for heavyweight boxing title.

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Peoria & Pekin Union Railway

PP&U circa 1977 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 255      Price: $115.00 $95.00

For Sale

A Peoria & Pekin Union Railway steel switch lock. "PP&U" is clearly stamped on the backside. "Adlake" forged, the lock works great, the drop cover is snug and has good spring action. The hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The original spike chain is attached. The matching brass PP&U key make this another nice lock set.

History

The Peoria and Pekin Union Railway is a switching and terminal railroad in Illinois that began operating in 1881 and was leased to the Tazewell and Peoria Railroad in 2004. Its main yard and roundhouse are in East Peoria, Illinois, and it owns track on both sides of the Illinois River.

1977 Highlights

Apple Computer is incorporated. Jimmy Carter is sworn in as the 39th President of the United States. George Lucas's Star Wars opens in cinemas and becomes the highest-grossing film of its time. It also makes sci-fi films very popular. Groucho Marx, comedic legend, star of stage and screen, dies of pneumonia at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, at the age of 86 (born 1890). The Commodore PET computer is first sold. In sports, Reggie Jackson blasts 3 home runs to lead the New York Yankees to a World Series victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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Reading Railroad

Reading circa 1968 steel/brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $165.00 $145.00

For Sale

A very handsome Reading Railroad steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock works great. Clearly stamped "RDG CO SW" on it's front hasp, the year "1968" is stamped on the reverse. The stamped number "2" is not a key code number. The stamped 2 indicates the 2nd quarter of 1968 that the lock was forged. The attractive brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The drop cover is snug and has great spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Still sporting its original 8 inch spike chain, I teamed the lock up with a great looking Slaymaker-Reading brass key. A sharp looking lock set!

History

Commonly called the Reading Railroad and logotyped as Reading Lines, the Reading Company was a railroad holding company for the majority of its existence and was a (single) railroad during its later years. It was a successor to the Philadelphia and Reading Railway Company founded in 1833. Until the decline in anthracite loadings in the Coal Region after World War II, it was one of the most prosperous corporations in the United States. Competition with the modern trucking industry that used the Interstate highway system for short distance transportation of goods, also known as short hauls, compounded the company's problems, forcing it into bankruptcy in the 1970s. Its railroad operations were merged into Conrail in 1976.

1968 Highlights

The turburlent 1960s. The year 1968 witnessed Sen. Robert F. Kennedy shot and critically wounded in Los Angeles hotel after winning California primary (June 5), dies June 6. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader, is slain in Memphis (April 4). On a lighter note, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In debuts on NBC. Album of the Year: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles.

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Reading Railroad

Reading circa 1958 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 260      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

Ten years older than it's brother switch lock above, but works just as well, is another "Slaymaker." "RDG CO" is stamped on it's front hasp, the year "1958" is stamped on the reverse. The #1 indicates the 1st quarter of 1958 that the lock was forged. Blessed with a great dark patina, the attractive brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The drop cover is snug and has great spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Still sporting its original spike chain, I teamed the lock up with another great looking Slaymaker-Reading brass key.

1958 Highlights

The first successful American satellite, Explorer 1, is launched into orbit. Ruth Carol Taylor is the first African American woman hired as a flight attendant. Working for Mohawk Airlines, her career lasts only six months, due to another discriminatory barrier - the airline's ban on married flight attendants. Unemployment in Detroit reaches 20%, marking the height of the Recession of 1958 in the United States. The plastic hula hoop is first marketed. Have Gun Will Travel debuts on American radio.

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Reading Railroad

Signal Dept. Lock

Reading brass/steel signal lock set

Lock Set: 261      Price: $75.00 $55.00

For Sale

For lock collectors searching for a small to medium size railroad lock, this Reading brass signal lock is in great condition. The key is not the original, but it works well with the lock. The hasp opens and latches nicely. A nice 1!

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Richmond Connection Railroad

RC brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 263      Price: $185.00 $165.00

For Sale

A cast brass "Richmond Connection Railroad" switch lock set. "Bohannan" forged, the front of the hasp is clearly stamped "RICH. CON. RR." Although the key works well with the lock, I cannot state if this is the original. Original chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.

History

Known as the "first railroad war," the American Civil War left the South's railroads and economy devastated. The Richmond-Fredericksburg & Potomac and Richmond & Petersburg Railroad Connection was chartered March 3, 1866, and opened May 1, 1867, as a connection between the RF&P and the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad (later part of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad) west of downtown Richmond. It was operated jointly by those two companies. In addition, a downtown connection was owned by the R&P past Broad Street Station.

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Rutland Railroad

Rutland steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 265      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

A rare Rutland Railroad steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, "Rutland" is clearly stamped on the back. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock is in excellent condition and has its original spike chain attached. The very nice Rutland key works great and makes a perfect pair for this bygone "Milk Train Railroad."

History

The Rutland Railroad (reporting mark RUT) was a railroad in the northeastern United States, located primarily in the state of Vermont but extending into the state of New York at both its northernmost and southernmost ends. After its closure in 1963 parts of the railroad were taken over by the State of Vermont and are now operated by the Vermont Railway.

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Santa Fe Railroad

Santa Fe circa 1919 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 268      Price: $275.00 $255.00

For Sale

There is a myriad number of AT&SF steel switch locks on the market but few are stamped Santa Fe. This WW1 era switch lock is "Adlake" forged, and is clearly stamped "Santa Fe" on the front hasp. The numerical numbers "419" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "fourth quarter of 1919." The spring drop is snug and has good spring action, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. At 103 years old, the lock is in very good condition. The original spike chain attached, the chains' keeper moves freely. The Santa Fe brass key is near the locks' age and, paired together make a great looking geriatric couple. A unique and very rare relic!

History

The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (reporting mark ATSF), often referred to as the Santa Fe or AT&SF, was one of the larger railroads in the United States. The railroad was chartered in February 1859 to serve the cities of Atchison and Topeka, Kansas, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The railroad reached the Kansas–Colorado border in 1873 and Pueblo, Colorado, in 1876. To create a demand for its services, the railroad set up real estate offices and sold farmland from the land grants that it was awarded by Congress. Despite being chartered to serve the city, the railroad chose to bypass Santa Fe, due to the engineering challenges of the mountainous terrain. Eventually a branch line from Lamy, New Mexico, brought the Santa Fe railroad to its namesake city. The railroad officially ceased operations on December 31, 1996, when it merged with the Burlington Northern Railroad to form the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway.

1919 Highlights

The funeral of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, is held at Christ Church Oyster Bay, Long Island; Roosevelt had died in his sleep at the age of 60, two days earlier. The Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, authorizing Prohibition, is ratified. The League of Nations is founded in Paris, France. The Steel strike of 1919 begins across the United States. In baseball: American baseball player Babe Ruth is traded by the Boston Red Sox to the New York Yankees for $125,000, the largest sum ever paid for a player at this time, a deal made public at the beginning of January 1920.

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SafeTran Systems

Signal Dept. lock set  

SafeTrans steel/brass signal lock set

Lock Set: 270      Price: $115.00

For Sale

A 'SafeTran Systems' steel signal lock and brass key. The SafeTran logo is stamped on the lock. This is one of the better signal locks I've seen, which has a very nice thick gauge-heavy duty chain attached. The lack of signal keys on the market is a frustrating factor for collectors. I tried the (round opening) key on various other signal locks such as, Raco hex, triangle bolts etc. My conclusion was, and is, that the key is proprietary, it will only work with the SafeTrans Systems locks.

History

Established in 1920, the Safetran Systems Corporation was an American company that manufactured switch machines, railroad wayside signal systems, rail transit signaling and rail-highway level crossing active warning systems. The company was headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Safetran was part of Invensys Rail Systems; however, Siemens acquired the rail company officially in April 2013.

view key opening

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Seaboard Airline Railroad

SAL steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 274      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Mother Nature has blessed the face of this Seaboard lock with a great looking dark patina, and she's now working her magic on the backside. "Adlake" forged, the initials "SAL RR" are clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The great looking SAL key make the set!

History

The Seaboard Air Line Railroad (reporting mark SAL), which styled itself "The Route of Courteous Service," was an American railroad whose corporate existence extended from April 14, 1900 until July 1, 1967, when it merged with the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, its longtime rival, to form the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. The company was headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, until 1958, when its main offices were relocated to Richmond, Virginia. The Seaboard Air Line Railway Building in Norfolk's historic Freemason District still stands and has been converted to luxury apartments. Now part of the CSX Transportation Co.

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Seaboard Airline Railroad

SAL circa 1955 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 275      Price: $195.00 $175.00

For Sale

Popular among collectors and offering for sale, is a Seaboard Air Line Railroad switch lock set. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "SAL RR" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp and "1955" on the backside. Still sporting its original 12 inch spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. To make this set whole, I've paired the lock up with a great looking SAL key.

1955 Highlights

U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower sends the first U.S. advisors to South Vietnam. Ray Kroc opens his first McDonald's in Des Plaines, Illinois. Disneyland opens to the public in Anaheim, California. The long-running program Gunsmoke debuts on the CBS-TV network. General Motors becomes the first American corporation to make a profit of over one billion dollars in one year.

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Seaboard Airline Railroad

SAL steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 276      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

A very nice Seaboard steel and brass switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "SAL RR" is clearly stamped on the backside. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching SAL key make a fine east coast couple!

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Seaboard Airline Railroad

SAL circa 1951 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 277      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

Another Seaboard switch lock set for sale, but with a much lighter patina. "Adlake" forged, the initials "SAL RR" are clearly stamped on the back. One of the better railroads of it's era, the line did not skimp on quality. This lock, like many others, has a brass hasp and steel body. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "251" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "second quarter of 1951." Still sporting its original spike chain, I've paired this lock up with an original SAL brass key. Would make a great "father" to the SCL lock set listed below!

1951 Highlights

The new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City. The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. Korean War: Armistice negotiations begin at Kaesong. The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than $13.3 billion USD in foreign aid to rebuild Europe. One of the greatest moments in Major League Baseball history occurs when the New York Giants' Bobby Thomson hits a game-winning home run in the bottom of the 9th inning off of Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca, to win the National League pennant after being down 14 games.

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Seaboard Airline Railroad

SAL steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 278      Price: $125.00 $100.00

For Sale

Yet another, Seaboard steel and brass switch lock. "Slaymake" forged, the initials "SAL RR" are clearly stamped on the back. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. Overall, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I have teamed the lock up with a very nice SAL brass key.

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Seaboard Coast Line Railroad

SCL steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 279      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

What I always liked about the SAL, and the later SCL switch locks, is the carrier purchased, and placed into service quality switch locks. For sale is this very attractive "SCL RR" stamped switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the lock is in excellent condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The lock has its original spike chain attached. The matching SCL key make this set a perfect marriage.

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Seaboard Coast Line Railroad

2 SCL signal dept. brass lock sets

Lock Set: 280      Price: $115.00

For Sale

Are two sharp looking Seaboard Coast Line brass signal lock sets. Both are in very nice condition. There is no visible foundry stamp mark, a guess would be 'Yale' forged. Keys shown are not the original. A nice all around utility lock/locks from a very popular railroad.

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Soo Line Railroad

Soo Line steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 283      Price: $145.00

For Sale

A very nice looking Soo Line steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged "Soo Line" is clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The matching Soo Line key make this another handsome lock set!

History

The Soo Line Railroad (reporting mark SOO) is the primary United States railroad subsidiary of the Canadian Pacific Railway (reporting mark CP), one of seven U.S. Class I railroads, controlled through the Soo Line Corporation. It was formed in 1961 by the consolidation of that company with two other CP subsidiaries: The Duluth, South Shore and Atlantic Railway, and the Wisconsin Central Railway.

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Soo Line Railroad

Soo Line steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 284      Price: $95.00 $75.00

For Sale

Like new! Is a very clean Soo Line Railroad steel switch lock. "Keyline" forged, "Soo Line" is clearly stamped on the back. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. To make this set whole, I've match it up with a nice Keline brass key.

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Southern Railroad

Southern steel lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 287      Price: $145.00

For Sale

A sharp looking Southern "banjo" style steel switch lock. A popular railroad with southern collector's, the lock is in very good condition. "SO RY" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. "Yale"forged, the spring drop is snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. Still sporting its original spike chain, the matching Southern key make this another handsome lock set!

History

The Southern Railway (reporting mark SOU) (also known as Southern Railway Company and now known as the current incarnation of the Norfolk Southern Railway) is a name of a class 1 railroad that was based in the Southern United States. The railroad is the product of nearly 150 predecessor lines that were combined, reorganized and recombined beginning in the 1830s, formally becoming the Southern Railway in 1894. The railroad joined forces with the Norfolk and Western Railway (N&W) in 1980 to form the Norfolk Southern Corporation. The Norfolk Southern Corporation was created in response to the creation of the CSX Corporation (its rail system was later transformed to CSX Transportation in 1986).

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Southern Railway

Southern steel/brass lock set

Lock Set: 288      Price: $85.00 $75.00

For Sale

A very nice Southern Railroad heavy-duty utility lock. This is the same style Southern brass lock as above, minus it's chain. "SOU RY" is clearly stamped on one side of the lock. Compared to other railroad utility locks, this is no youngster. Your average steel switch lock weighs in at 15oz's whereas, this baby weighs over 20oz.'s. It is a heavy duty lock with a "5/8" steel hasp. 'Yale' forged, the lock works just fine, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The key is stamped "Yale" and I believe it to be the original. Another very nice set.

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Southern Railroad

Southern circa 1922 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 289      Price: $125.00 $100.00

For Sale

A grand old steel Southern switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "SO RY ES" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. The cover has no spring action, but is secure, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "122" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1922." Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina. The lock has its original spike chain, and the keeper moves freely. As the years went by, it's interesting to note how lock masters such as Adlake, initiated moderate changes of the hasp, the chains keeper, and body style. A very handsome lock set!

1922 Highlights

The Roaring Twenties milestones: President of the United States Warren G. Harding introduces the first radio in the White House. Lincoln Memorial is dedicated by Former US President William Howard Taft. The Roaring '20s were marked by prosperity after World War I, drastic changes for women that included the right to vote and freedom from corsets and long, structured clothing to a more modern style of dress. Ladies bobbed their hair and displayed a more liberated demeanor. Prohibition brought the age of speakeasies and bootleggers, and everyone did the Charleston. The frivolity and excess ended with a loud crash of the stock market in October 1929, which was the first signal of the Great Depression to come.

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Southern Railroad

Southern circa 1916 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 290      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A Southern steel switch lock. Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark black patina. "Adlake" forged, the initials "S RY - ES" are clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. At a 104 years old, It seems the "O" has been worn off. The cover has no spring action, but is secure. The hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The numerical numbers "316" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "third quarter of 1916." The Adams & Westlake matching brass key is also stamped "S RY ES." Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. Look Ahead Look South!

1916 Highlights

March 1916, witnessed Mexican General "Francisco Pancho Villa" invade the US (18 killed). In Europe, the Battle of Verdun in WW I begins (1 million casualties). In sports, Honus Wagner, 42, is oldest to hit an inside-the-park homerun and women are allowed to attend a boxing match. United States Army aircraft fly their first mission over foreign soil when Curtiss JN-3s of the 1st Aero Squadron carry out reconnaissance over Mexico. The Original Dixieland Jazz Band begin playing at Schiller's Cafe in Chicago. Here's an odd note inscribed in history, Mary, a circus elephant, is hanged in the town of Erwin, Tennessee for killing her handler, Walter "Red" Eldridge.

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Southern Railway

  Signal Dept. Lock  

Southern signal brass lock set

SOLD      Price: $165.00

For Sale

Look Ahead-Look South, a great slogan for the Southern. A centenarian+ looking it's best, is a Southern Railway Signal lock set. The lock is the same size as a standard brass switch lock, which is unique as signal locks go. Having very nice stamp marks, and a fabulous patina, the lock is forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co." The lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Also, the lock has it's original chain. The Southern signal keys are scarcer than the locks, but I managed to find a key that works just fine.

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St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad

aka  "The Frisco"

Frisco brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 294      Price: $175.00 $165.00

For Sale

A rare St. Louis & San Francisco steel switch lock. Although there are a myriad of locks stamped with the "Frisco" moniker on the market, it is just the opposite for locks bearing the railroad's original name. "Slaymaker" forged, "SL&SF RR" is stamped on the frontside hasp. The attractive brass rivets enhance the locks' dark patina. Still sporting its original spike chain, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching SL&SF brass key is a relic in it's own right, the hex stamp dating it to the 1800s.

History

The St. Louis-San Francisco Railway (reporting mark SLSF) commonly known as the "Frisco," was a railroad that operated in the Midwest and South Central United States from 1876 to April 17, 1980. At the end of 1970, it operated 4,547 miles of road on 6,574 miles of track, not including subsidiaries Quanah, Acme and Pacific Railway and the Alabama, Tennessee and Northern Railroad; that year, it reported 12,795 million ton-miles of revenue freight and no passengers. It was purchased and absorbed into the Burlington Northern Railroad in 1980. Despite its name, it never came close to San Francisco.

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St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad

aka  "The Frisco"

Frisco circa 1980 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 295      Price: $175.00

For Sale

A Frisco switch lock younger than the one above, but just as nice. Still sporting its original spike chain, "SL&SF RR" is stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "80." "Adlake" forged, the lock is in good condition, the spring drop rides a bit high, but still has good spring action. The hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching SL&SF brass key is a little older than the lock but together they make a great pair!

What makes this Frisco lock somewhat special, is it beat the name change. A "Fallen Flag," the Frisco merged into the Burlington Northern Railroad on November 21, 1980. The lock must have come from Adlakes' foundry early or mid-1980. Railroads that gobbled up other lines, usually didn't (don't) waste no time slapping their new name on their equipment, replacing keys, locks, etc. This lock is an unofficial survivor! Following the law of economics, and the ancestry of our hobby, which is collecting railroad relics, 1980 dated Frisco locks will become more valuable as time passes.

1980 Highlights

The Staggers Rail Act of 1980 is a United States federal law that deregulated the American railroad industry to a significant extent, and it replaced the regulatory structure that had existed since the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887. The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad is ordered liquidated due to bankruptcy and debt owed to creditors. March 31 - Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad operates its final train. In 1980, the N&W teamed with the Southern Railway, another profitable carrier and created the Norfolk Southern Corporation holding company by merging its business operations with the business operations of the Southern Railway. The N&W and the Southern Railway continued as separate railroads now under one holding company.

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St. Louis Southwestern Railroad

aka "The Cotton Belt"

SSW-SP steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 297      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

Like new! Is a "Keyline" forged SSW steel switch lock. Although the initials "SSW" are stamped on the back, this lock was keyed for an SP CS-47 key. Up until 1992, the SSW was run as a separate entity of the Southern Pacific. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've paired the lock with a very nice SP CS-47 brass key.

History

The Southern Pacific Company (SP) gained Interstate Commerce Commission approval to control the Cotton Belt system on April 14, 1932, but continued to operate it as a separate company until 1992, when the SP consolidated the Cotton Belt's operations into the parent company.

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CS-4 circa 1936 steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $195.00

For Sale

Still looking good at age 83 and in great condition is this "Adlake" forged, Southern Pacific steel switch lock. "CS-4S" is stamped on the front hasp. The initials "SPC" are stamped on the back body. The numerical numbers "136" are stamped under the drop cover; this states the lock was forged during the "first quarter of 1936." The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've matched this lock up with a very nice SP CS-4S brass key.

History

The Southern Pacific Transportation Company (reporting mark SP), earlier Southern Pacific Railroad and Southern Pacific Company, and usually called the Southern Pacific or (from the railroad's initials) Espee, was an American Class I railroad. It was absorbed in 1988 by the company that controlled the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad and eight years later became part of the Union Pacific Railroad.

1936 Highlights

American's witnessed the US construction of Hoover Dam completed. The Summer Olympics open in Berlin. At the Berlin Olympics, Jesse Owens, a black man from the United States, upsets Hitler by winning the 100-meter dash. The first superhero to wear a skin-tight costume and mask, The Phantom, makes his appearance in U.S. newspapers. In California, the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge opens to traffic. Richard Hauptmann, convicted of the Lindbergh kidnapping and murder in 1932, is executed by electrocution in New Jersey State Prison.

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CO. circa 1945 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 301      Price: $175.00

For Sale

Still looking good at age 83 and in great condition, is this "Slaymaker" forged, Southern Pacific steel switch lock. "SP-CO" is stamped on the frontside hasp and "1945" on the reverse. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. To match the locks' date stamp, I've matched it up with a very nice SP CS-45 Slaymaker brass key. Note: WW2 Victory Lock!

1945 Highlights

The American people stayed close to their home media outlet - the radio. Most news was about the war and it inevitable ending. Franklin D. Roosevelt is sworn in for a fourth term as President of the United States, the only President ever to exceed two terms. WWII: Audie Murphy sees action at Holtzwihr, France, for which is awarded the Medal of Honor. Eddie Slovik is executed by firing squad near Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines for desertion, the only U.S. soldier since the American Civil War ever executed for this offense. President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies suddenly at Warm Springs, Georgia. Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) is observed by the western European powers as Nazi Germany surrenders, marking the end of WWII in Europe.

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CO. circa 1978 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 302      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A sharp looking Southern Pacific steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "SPT CO CS 4S" are stamped on the back, along with a stamped year rivet "78." The original steel chain is attached. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I paired this one up with a very nice SP CS 4S switch key. A handsome set!

1978 Highlights

The Japanese car imports account for half the US import market following the energy crisis and increase in fuel prices that fuels demand for economy cars. Cardinal Karol Wojtyla becomes Pope John Paul II. Illinois Bell Company introduces first ever Cellular Mobile Phone System. For collectors my age, Federal Reserve interest rates year end = 11.75%. Blast from the past; a 8 track player retails for $169.00. How many clunky 8 track tapes did your machine eat and spit out!

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CO. steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 303      Price: $125.00

For Sale

Another sharp looking Southern Pacific steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "CS 4S" are stamped on the frontside hasp and "SP CO" is stamped on the back. The original steel chain is attached. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I paired this one up with a great looking SP CS 4S switch key. A handsome set!

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CO. road & bridge steel switch lock & brass key set

SOLD      Price: $145.00

For Sale

Someone took good care of this lock and it works just great! "Adlake" forged, the initials "SP CO" are stamped on the back, and stamped "R&B" on the frontside hasp. The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The SP 47 brass key look great together!

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP CO. steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 305     Road & Bridge     Price: $145.00

For Sale

Here we have another SP R&B lock set for sale. Just like the R&B lock above, the lock is "Adlake" forged. The initials "SP CO" are stamped on the back, and stamped "R&B" on the frontside hasp. The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've matched this lock up with a very nice SP 47 brass key.

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Southern Pacific Railroad

Southern Pacific Sunset lock set

Lock Set: 306      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

A rare and popular Southern Pacific "Sunset" brass lock. Although the key is not the original, it works well with the lock.

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Southern Pacific Railroad
Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad

SP-AT&SF circa 1961 steel/brass Team Track switch lock set

Lock Set: 307      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

A very rare Southern Pacific & Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe "Team Track" switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock is clearly stamped "SP ATSF" on the frontside hasp, and "1961" on the back.

Note: A railroad Team Track is a siding where boxcars can be spotted for loading/unloading. Team tracks were usually located by train depots or other places of business that a railroad serviced.

Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Requiring a Santa Fe key to work the lock, suggests the SF was the dominant railroad of the two. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The locks' patina is very dark, for better viewing, I lightened the pictures. When possible, a rare lock calls for a rare key. The Slaymaker brass key pairs up nicely with this relic. Note: This having been the 2nd team track lock I've come across, I'm inclined to believe this is strictly a west coast railroad anomaly. Great conversation piece!

click here: to view a team track siding

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Southern Pacific Railroad

SP brass lock & steel key set

Lock Set: 308      Price: $75.00

For Sale

For sale is a Southern Pacific brass utility lock.
Made under the logo of the "Six Lever Brand," the lock operates just fine.

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Tennessee Central Railroad

TC circa 1958 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 310      Price: $175.00

For Sale

A "Tennessee Central" steel/brass switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the initials "TC RR" are clearly stamped on the front hasp. The year "1958" is stamped on the reverse. The handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the keeper moves freely. The lock is in excellent condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. Although the key is not the original, it works well with the lock. Hoarded by collectors, TC lock sets are far and few to find.

History

The Tennessee Central Railway was founded in 1884 as the Nashville and Knoxville Railroad by Alexander S. Crawford. It was an attempt to open up a rail route from the coal and minerals of East Tennessee to the markets of the midstate, a service which many businessmen felt was not being adequately provided by the existing railroad companies. Unable to it's loans the TC fell into its third and final receivership in 1968. Its assets were sold off. Much of the Nashville beltline south of Nashville had already been sold to the state to build I-440. The Western Division from the western end of the I-440 right of way in Nashville to Hopkinsville, KY was purchased by the Illinois Central Railroad. The eastern end of the line from Harriman to the siding just west of Crossville went to the Southern Railway. The remaining middle portion from Crossville to Nashville went to its old and not at all friendly rival, the Louisville & Nashville.

1958 Highlights

The U.S. Army inducts Elvis Presley, transforming The King Of Rock & Roll into U.S. Private #53310761. Unemployment in Detroit reaches 20%, marking the height of the Recession of 1958 in the United States. President Dwight D. Eisenhower becomes the first American elected official to be broadcast on color television. The plastic hula hoop is first marketed in the United States. Pope John XXIII succeeds Pope Pius XII as the 261st pope. Jack Kilby invents the first integrated circuit while working at Texas Instruments. The 1958 World Series was a rematch of the 1957 Series, with the New York Yankees beating the defending champion Milwaukee Braves in seven games for their 18th title.

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Toledo & Chicago Interurban Railway

T&CI brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $195.00$175.00

For Sale

A very rare Toledo and Chicago Interurban Railway brass switch lock set. "T&CI RY" is clearly stamped on the front hasp. There are no visiible foundry stamp marks; I would guess either "Bohannan or Slaymaker" forged. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Although the chain is not from the foundry, for authenticity, I added one to it's keeper. Also, the key is not the original, but work's just fine with the lock. The handsome 'waffle' style body is great on the eyes. I seriously doubt you will find another T&CI lock in circulation. Different but nice!

History

The Toledo and Chicago Interurban Railway was incorporated in 1903. It was originally intended to be a 70-mile long inter-city electric railway from Goshen to the Ohio state line. It was near the geographic center of a group of interurban lines being built and connected end-to-end with the the goal of providing interurban service from Toledo, Ohio, to Chicago. But what ended up happening was financial constraints permitted only the Fort Wayne Division to be built. It was subsequently purchased by the Fort Wayne & Northwestern Railway in 1913, which, in turn, was acquired by the Indiana Service Corp. in 1924, and then became part of the Indiana Railroad Co. in 1937. Service continued between Fort Wayne and Garrett until 1949, when the tracks were torn up.

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Toledo & Western Railroad

T&W brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 314      Price: $145.00 $115.00

For Sale

Here's a brass lock with a great looking mahogany patina. A little known railroad by the name of "Toledo & Western." "T&W RR" is clearly stamped on the frontside hasp. The lock was forged by the "Theo M. Edwards Co." of Syracuse, N.Y. The lock is in excellent condition, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The drop cover is snug, and has great spring action. The lock still has about 6" of galvanized chain attached. I took a chance and puchased this lock w/o a key. After trying a couple dozen different keys, I discoved this lock works exceptionally well with a BN key style. A rare geriatric relic for sure!

History

The Toledo & Western was built in 1900 and 1901 from Toledo, Ohio to Adrian, Mississippi, as a short line railroad but to interurban standards. It was designed for both freight and passenger service. Another line was built to Pioneer by 1903. After several reorganizations, passenger service was abandoned in 1933. Final abandonment of the T&W came in 1935.

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Toledo-Peoria & Western Railroad

TP&W circa 1977 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 316      Price: $115.00

For Sale

A Toledo-Peoria & Western steel switch lock and matching brass key. "Adlake" forged, the initials "TP&W" are clearly stamped on the back along with a stamped year rivet "77." The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Lock has its original spike chain attached.

History

The Toledo-Peoria & Western Railway (TPW) is a short-line railroad that operates from Mapleton, IL through Peoria, IL, and on to Logansport, IN with trackage rights in other areas of Indiana and Illinois.

1977 Highlights

The year 1977 brought the world's first personal computer, the Commodore PET, it is demonstrated at the winter Consumer Electronics Show in Chicago. The movie Star Wars was released. Elvis Presley performs his last-ever concert, in Indianapolis, Indiana's Market Square Arena. Later that year Elvis Presley, the king of rock and roll dies in his home in Graceland at age 42. In baseball history, Reggie Jackson hits three home runs to lead the New York Yankees to World Series victory.

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 319      Price: $125.00

For Sale

A Union Pacific steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the initials "UP RR NO 1 Switch" are clearly stamped on the back. The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The very nice matching UP key works well with the lock.

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP circa 1800 cast-brass lock set

Lock Set: 320      Price: $250.00 $225.00

For Sale

A very nice Union Pacific cast-brass switch lock. Forged by the "Adams & Westlake Co." the A&W stamped hex logo is a dead give away for the foundrys' 1800s era trademark. This lock has a copper like patina and shows well. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. In great condition, some previous owner took real good care of this lock. It had a short chain, and some previous owner had the expertise to "add on" to it. Whoever did the handywork, most likely a purist, did a great job. The chains' keeper moves freely. I've teamed the lock up with a great looking UP key. The lock shows it's age well, and would make a great addition to some collector's showcase.

History

The Union Pacific Railroad is a freight hauling railroad that operates 8,500 locomotives over 32,100 route-miles in 23 states west of Chicago, Illinois and New Orleans, Louisiana. The Union Pacific Railroad network is the largest in the United States and employs 42,600 people. It is also one of the world's largest transportation companies. Founded in 1862, the original Union Pacific Rail Road was part of the First Transcontinental Railroad project, later known as the Overland Route. Over the next century, UP absorbed the Missouri Pacific Railroad, the Chicago and North Western Transportation Company, the Western Pacific Railroad, the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad and the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. In 1996, the Union Pacific merged with Southern Pacific Transportation Company, itself a giant system that was absorbed by the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, initially maintaining the Southern Pacific name before the newly merged company reverted to the UP moniker. The Union Pacific Railroad is the principal operating company of the Union Pacific Corporation, both headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP circa 1800 cast-brass lock set

Lock Set: 321      Price: $265.00 $245.00

For Sale

Forged by the Adams & Westlake Co., this Union Pacific cast-brass switch lock is like new! It has a nice medium-dark brown patina and shows well. The original spike chain attached, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp opens and latches with ease. The matching UP key make a great pair!

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP circa 1964 brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 322      Price: $150.00 $135.00

For Sale

A very attractive Union Pacific brass switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the initials "UP RR Switch No.1" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "464" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "fourth quarter of 1964." Over the years, Mother Nature has produced a natural dark patina, which complements the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've matched this relic up with the darkest UP key I had.

1964 Highlights

Plans to build the New York City World Trade Center are announced. Teamsters President Jimmy Hoffa is convicted by a federal jury of tampering with a federal jury in 1962. A Dallas, Texas, jury finds Jack Ruby guilty of killing John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. On February 9, 1964, the Beatles first appeared on the, Ed Sullivan show (73.7 million viewers). The space race was heating up between the US and Russia. Also, in 1964, the first Kennedy half dollar is issued. In sports, Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers southpaw, Sandy Koufax is first to strike out the side on 9 pitches.

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 323      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

Another handsome Union Pacific brass switch lock set. The initials "UP RR Switch No.1" are clearly stamped on the back. "Adlake" forged, the lock is in excellent working condition. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. I've teamed this lock up with a very nice Adlake UP key.

For Sale

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP Motive Power & Cab circa 1966 brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 324      Price: $195.00 $185.00

For Sale

A rare Union Pacific 'Motive Power & Cab' switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, "UPMP&C" is clearly stamped on the front hasp, and "1966" on the back. The handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The Fraim/Slaymaker brass key make a great match.

1966 Highlights

U.S. announces it will substantially increase its number of troops in Vietnam, while demonstrations are held across the United States against the war. Walt Disney dies while producing The Jungle Book, the last animated feature under his personal supervision. Miranda v. Arizona: The Supreme Court of the United States rules that the police must inform suspects of their rights before questioning them. The Monkees television series premieres on NBC. The Washington Redskins defeat the New York Giants 72-41 in the highest scoring game in National Football League history.

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Union Pacific Railroad

UP road & bridge brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 325      Price: $145.00 $125.00

For Sale

All dressed up and no where to go. For sale is a very nice Union Pacific Road & Bridge brass switch lock set. "Adlake" forged, the UP initials are stamped on the back. The "R" is mostly wore off. While turning the key, you must pull up on the hasp to open. On some of these older locks, the metal spring gets worn down, and as the saying goes,"no spring in your step." Still sporting its original spike chain, the drop cover is very snug and has good spring action. All said, considering the R&B locks don't circulate that often, this is a very nice set to take another look at. If not satisfied, you can return the lock.

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Union Stockyards & Transit Company

USY&TCO circa 1962 brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 328      Price: $275.00 $265.00

For Sale

A real beauty is this brass switch lock set off the Union Stockyards & Transit Company Railroad. Tempted to keep this relic for myself, this stockyard and multiple railroad's operated in the neighborhood (Back of the Yards), I was born into. "Adlake" forged, the initials "USY&TCO" are clearly stamped on the back. The numerical numbers "362" are stamped under the drop cover, this states the lock was forged during the "third quarter of 1962." Its original spike chain attached, the lock is in excellent condition. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease.

Note:The Union Stockyards & Transit locks are some of the most difficult locks to find keys for. When a SY lock pops up for sale, it is almost always without a key. This is because there are about 4 or more variety of Transit SY keys and all are a rare find. The Slaymaker key is a real gem by itself, and together make this set a real classic!

History

The Union Stock Yard & Transit Co., or The Yards, was the meatpacking district in Chicago for more than a century, starting in 1865. The district was operated by a group of railroad companies that acquired marshland and turned it into a centralized processing area. By the 1890s, the railroad capital behind the Union Stockyards was Vanderbilt money.

When the late 20th century writer and poet Carl Sandburg, visited the Chicago Stockyards, he later presented the city (and nation) with his famous poem, "Chicago-Hog Butcher for the World"

1962 Highlights: In 1962 the United States Navy SEALs are established and John Glenn is 1st American to orbit Earth (Friendship 7). President Kennedy begins blockade of Cuba by banning all Cuban imports and exports. Marilyn Monroe is found dead at age 36 from "acute barbiturate poisoning." In sports, Jackie Robinson is 1st African American elected to Baseball's Hall of Fame. Bob Feller is also elected. Wilt Chamberlain scores 100 points in a single NBA basketball game.

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Virginian Railway

VGN circa 1957 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 330      Price: $325.00 $295.00

For Sale

Like new! Is a Virginian Railway steel switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, and still sporting its original spike chain, the lock works great. The handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the lock. Stamped on the front hasp are the initials "VGN." and "1957" on the reverse. The spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease and the chains' keeper moves freely. The matching VGN brass key make this another perfect marriage and a handsome set to own. A rare 1!

The Virginian Railway was a Class I railroad located in Virginia and West Virginia in the United States. The VGN was created to transport high quality "smokeless" bituminous coal from southern West Virginia to port at Hampton Roads. During World War I, VGN was jointly operated with its adjacent competitor, the Norfolk & Western Railway (N&W), under the USRA's wartime takeover of the Pocahontas Roads. The operating efficiencies were significant. After the war, the railroads were returned to their respective owners and competitive status. However, N&W never lost sight of VGN and its low-grade routing through Virginia.

After World War I there were many attempts by C&O, N&W, and others to acquire the Virginian Railway. However, the US Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) turned down attempts at combining the roads until the late 1950s, when a proposed Norfolk & Western Railway and Virginian Railway merger was approved in 1959.

1957 Highlights

September 14, cult Western series "Have Gun Will Travel", premieres on CBS. Elvis Presley appears on The Ed Sullivan Show for the 3rd and final time. Dwight D. Eisenhower is privately sworn in for a second term as President of the United States. May 3, 1957 - Brooklyn Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley agrees to move the team from Brooklyn, New York, to Los Angeles.

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Wabash Railroad

Wabash brass lock set

Lock Set: 332      Price: $175.00 $160.00

For Sale

A very nice Wabash brass switch lock. Sporting a copper-like patina, the lock is stamped "Wabash RR" on the front hasp. A little smaller than a cast brass switch lock, there are no visible foundry stamps. Hardly used, the hasp needs extra pressure applied to latch. The original chain attached, the drop cover has good spring action. I paired the lock with a very nice Wabash key. A nice rarity!

History

The Wabash Railroad (reporting mark WAB) was a Class I railroad that operated in the mid-central United States. It served a large area, including track in the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, and Missouri and the province of Ontario. Its primary connections included Chicago, Illinois, Kansas City, Missouri, Detroit, Michigan, Buffalo, New York, St. Louis, Missouri, and Toledo, Ohio. The Wabash's major freight traffic advantage was the direct line from Kansas City to Detroit, without going through St. Louis or Chicago. Despite the Wabash name disappearing in the 1960s, the company continued to exist on paper until being merged into the Norfolk Southern Railway in 1991.

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Wabash Railroad

Wabash circa 1958 steel/brass switch lock set

Lock Set: 333      Price: $185.00 $170.00

For Sale

Is this great looking 65 year old Wabash switch lock. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock is stamped "Wabash RR" on the front hasp and "S 1958" on the reverse. The lock is in very good condition, the spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. It's original chain attached, the keeper moves freely. To make the set complete, I've teamed this relic up with a nice Fraim/Slaymaker brass key.

1958 Highlights

The first successful American satellite, Explorer 1, is launched into orbit. Ruth Carol Taylor is the first African American woman hired as a flight attendant. Working for Mohawk Airlines, her career lasts only six months, due to another discriminatory barrier - the airline's ban on married flight attendants. Unemployment in Detroit reaches 20%, marking the height of the Recession of 1958 in the United States. The plastic hula hoop is first marketed. Have Gun Will Travel debuts on American radio.

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Western Maryland Railroad

WM brass switch lock set

SOLD      Price: $225.00 $195.00

For Sale

A rare Western Maryland cast brass switch lock. "WM RR" is stamped on the front hasp and body, and "Fraim" on the back hasp as well. The lock is still sporting its original spike chain. Similar in body style like the B&O brass locks, the chain is made of a very thick gauge. The lock is in great working condition, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching Western Maryland brass key make this another perfect marriage. A very handsome set!

History

Now part of the CSX Transportation Co., the Western Maryland Railway (reporting mark WM) was an American Class I railroad (1852-1983) which operated in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. It was primarily a coal hauling and freight railroad, with a small passenger train operation.

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Western Maryland Railroad

WM circa 1951 brass/steel switch lock set

Lock Set: 336      Price: $200.00 $175.00

For Sale

Another rare Western Maryland switch lock. "WM RY" is stamped on the front hasp and "1951" stamped on the reverse. Still sporting its original spike chain, the handsome brass rivets complement the overall appearance of the locks' dark patina. "Slaymaker" forged, the lock is in great working condition. The spring drop is snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The chains' keeper will move but is a little stiff. Purchased alone, I've paired the lock up with a very nice Western Maryland-Slaymaker brass key.

1951 Highlights

The new United Nations headquarters officially opens in New York City. The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. Korean War: Armistice negotiations begin at Kaesong. The Marshall Plan expires after distributing more than $13.3 billion USD in foreign aid to rebuild Europe. One of the greatest moments in Major League Baseball history occurs when the New York Giants' Bobby Thomson hits a game-winning home run in the bottom of the 9th inning off of Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca, to win the National League pennant after being down 14 games.

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Western Pacific Railroad

WP circa 1975 steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 338      Price: $175.00 $165.00

For Sale

A very clean Western Pacific steel switch lock. Unlike some of the WP's railroad peers, the switch locks are not as ubiquitous on the market. "Adlake" forged, the lock is clearly stamped "WP RR" on the back body and a stamped year rivet "75." Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. The matching WP brass key works well with the lock and make an attractive set to add to your collection!

History

The Western Pacific Railroad (reporting mark WP) was a Class I railroad in the United States. It was formed in 1903 as an attempt to break the near-monopoly the Southern Pacific Railroad had on rail service into northern California. WP's Feather River Route directly competed with SP's portion of the Overland Route for rail traffic between Salt Lake City/Ogden, Utah, and Oakland, California, for nearly 80 years. In 1983, the Western Pacific was acquired by the Union Pacific Corporation and it was soon merged into their Union Pacific Railroad. The Western Pacific was one of the original operators of the California Zephyr.

1975 Highlights

In 1975 we had the Watergate scandal: John N. Mitchell, H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman are found guilty of the Watergate cover-up. The unemployment rate peaks at 9.0% ending the Post-War Boom. In Detroit, Michigan, Teamsters Union president Jimmy Hoffa is reported missing. U.S. President Gerald Ford survives a second assassination attempt, this time by Sara Jane Moore in San Francisco. Thrilla in Manila: Muhammad Ali defeats Joe Frazier in a boxing match in Manila, Philippines.

click here: to view a team track siding

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Western Pacific Railroad

WP Team Track steel switch lock & brass key set

Lock Set: 339      Price: $175.00 $155.00

For Sale

A very rare Western Pacific steel switch lock. "Adlake" forged, the lock is clearly stamped "WP RR." On the front hasp, there is a large "T" stamped on each side. Still sporting its original spike chain, the spring drop is very snug, the hasp will unlock and latch with ease. Requiring a UP key to work the lock, suggests the UP was first to the well. A great conversation piece!

It is my belief, that the double T stamp indicates "TEAM TRACK." A railroad Team Track is a siding where boxcars can be spotted for loading/unloading. Team tracks were usually located by train depots or other places of business that a railroad serviced. Both roads had trackage rights on each others main line's, and would've shared servicing the Team Track.

click here: to view a team track siding

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Locks with keys - sold as is

Atlanta & West Point,
Western Ry of Alabama,
& Georgia Railroad

2 AWP-WA-GA steel switch locks & brass key

Lock Set: 1-WK     Price: $50.00

Two West Point Route steel switch locks for sale. Both locks are"Adlake" forged and stamped "AWP-WA-GA RR" One lock is chainless and the other lock does have it's original chain. The key is not stamped but does work well with both locks.

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Keen Kutter brass lock

SOLD - Keen Kutter lock set   Price: $125.00

NOT A REPLICA. Although this is not a railroad lock, there seems to be a following for the "Kutter" name brand style of lock. For sale is a "Keen Kutter" brass lock and steel key. The lock is in excellent condition, it unlocks and latches just fine. The key is not the original. A nice 1!

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Signal Locks - sold as is

Signal Locks

Signal Locks: 2-NK - (2) At&SF + (1) KCT   Price: $95.00

For sale are two Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe and one Kansas City Terminal signal locks. The Santa Fe in right of picture is made of galvanized steel; the SF in the middle is a brass/steel combination, an oldie for sure. The KCT is all steel. With a little ingenuity, I was able to open and close each lock without their proprietary wrench key, as I'm sure any buyer can do as well. Nice combo!

click here to view key drop | close-up

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Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad

Lock Set: 3-NK - AT&SF (3) signal box locks   Price: $65.00

All cleaned up and ready to use, is this trio of "Raco" Atchison-Topeka & Santa Fe signal locks. Two steel galvanized and one steel/brass, "ATSF" is stamped on the bottom casing of each lock. A very compact secure lock that works great!

click here to view raco hex key

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Items of Interest

WRRS Co. Signal Locks

An alternative solution to not having a WRRS Co. signal key

I recently acquired 5 L&N Western Railroad Supply Co. (WRRS Co.) signal locks and, even though I have a hex key, it seems I've mis-placed it for the time being. Collector's of WRRS Co. and Raco signal locks are often frustrated with the lack of keys available for these type of railroad locks. For collectors who haven't thought of this, my solution to forgo a signal key, was to use a 2 inch extension attached to the 9/16 drive socket. There is usually no need to attach the hand wrench to the extension, for most hex nuts are not that tight to unscrew. I realize that there are other signal locks that require a smaller socket size or a special key, but I believe 9/16 is the standard size for the WRRS Co. signal locks. I hope my suggestion will be of some help.

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< --- Adams & Westlake lock catalog ca. 1897

Chronology of Newark's Lock Masters --- >

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Note:

All locks are inspected, and as a courtesy, cleaned and oiled. In addition, all locks include a ten day examination period. Upon receipt of lock set being delivered; if not satisfied, buyer has ten days to return the lock. Lock and key must be in same condition as when shipped. Return shipping fees are the buyers responsibility.

Last updated 05/04/2024

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