J. Rodgers & Sons, Celebrated California Knife Celebrated California Knife Knives

Joseph Rodgers & Sons Sheffield ‘CELEBRATED CALIFORNIA KNIFE’ (Californian Gold Rush 1848–1855) Large Bowie Knife With Polished Horn Hilt, German Silver Fittings & Scabbard. ED 2533 - ED 2533

Joseph Rodgers & Sons were first established as cutlers at ‘Holy Croft’ Sheffield C1724. By 1780 the firm was firmly established and well known for making quality knives. Having outgrown their Holy Croft premises moved to what was to become their worldwide famous address 6 Norfolk Street Sheffield. Originally making small edged weapons the Company moved into manufacture of large Bowies when American & British Empire markets expanded in the Victorian era. Rodgers sent knives to the American market during historic episodes in American history such as the and Californian Gold rush 1848–1855 & American Civil War (see page 235 of Joseph Rodgers & Sons By Domenech). This is a Victorian Gold rush era, large Bowie made by Rodgers & Son for the American market. The 14” long, Bowie has a solid, curved polished horn hilt with ornate white metal scalloped pommel cap. It has an oval German silver finger guard and ribbed ferrule. The 7 ¾” single edged, steel Bowie blade is stamped on one side ' J. Rodgers & Sons, Celebrated California Knife’ and has a lightly etched panel with banner ‘Fine India Steel’ (the image of the panel is the best we can achieve). The blade has areas of staining and wear consistent with age and use . Its original leather bound wood, open top scabbard has gold leaf impressed decoration and brass chape. The surface of the scabbard has wear to be expected. The price for this Victorian Bowie by one of the famous Sheffield cutlers with connections to the California gold rush includes UK delivery. ED 2533

£395.00