Case Mfg Co Barlow Style

[Millcreektrader]

I just came across this knife at an estate sale. I think it is a very early and probably hard to find tang stamp. Both blades stamped Case Mfg Co. Little Valley NY. The way it is stamped you can only see a y NY on the bottom of tang. Both blades are full and both have snap. The master blade still has etching; Warranted By Bess & Son. Included a couple of photos. Wondering if anyone had any info on this old beauty

[Mumbleypeg]

Yes, Case Mfg Co is a fairly rare stamp. The company was founded in 1908 as a partnership between John D. and Andrew Case. Originally located in Kane, PA, moved to Little Valley NY in 1911. Later that year sold to W. R. Case & Sons of Bradford, PA. according to Goins' Encyclopedia of Cutlery Markings. Don't know anything about Bess & Son - maybe an old hardware retailer. The blade etch may have been done at the factory or could have been added later. Someone else may know. Nice find!

Cautionary note - Goins' also says "CASE (curved) MFG. CO. (possible fake)". I'm not sure what that means, but the curved marking examples shown are CASE MFG. CO. (curved), over WARREN, PA. (straight).

Welcome to AAPK.

Ken

[Millcreektrader]

Thanks Ken, I appreciate the info, especially on the time line for the company. John

[Millcreektrader]

I just listed this knife for sale on ebay last night.