…and some keys. If you’re an antique lock collector or a lock enthusiast we have a tip for you on where to spend a pleasant afternoon – the Lock Museum of America in Terryville, Connecticut.

The museum is housed across from the original site of the Eagle Lock Company (founded in 1854) and displays a vast collection of over 23,000 kinds of locks, the largest collection of colonial and antique locks in the United States. You’ll see locks manufactured by the Eagle Lock Company, Russwin, P & F Corbin, and the original patent model of the Mortise Cylinder Pin Tumbler Lock designed by Linus Yale in 1865. This type of lock is onsidered the greatest invention in lockmaking history and is still widely used today.

The displays are arranged over eight rooms and are sorted by company or theme. There are American locks and keys from the Colonial era and later, British locks, locks from banks and prisons, locks that date back to 1520, and a 4,000 year old Egyptian made pin tumbler lock.

To get more information visit the Lock Museum of America’s web site: www.lockmuseumofamerica.org

Jim Arsenault is a Connecticut licensed Master Locksmith with over 30 years experience. He’ll repair or install a new lock at your Connecticut home or business. Email Jim or give him a call at 860-678-9797.