Timeless Tools and Treasures

Recently someone called me to sell a collection of Stanley planes. When I arrived, he had them all arrayed along with the largest chisel I have seen so far. It was 3.25″ wide and 34″ long. The biggest ones I had come across until now were around 24″ long.

It was made by the Underhill Brothers in Boston around 1853-71. The handle was in nearly perfect condition without the usual evidence of abuse by a hammer. This beauty went to a new home very quickly!

He offered a nice selection of Stanley planes: a No. 45 with all its cutters; a No. 49; a No. 78; a No. 113; and a No. 148. Plus a few saws, draw knives, and a Miller Falls angular bit stock.

Then, at the next place I went to see tools, I found three more angular bit stocks, each one different. I have yet to identify these others, but they make a nice collection.