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17th November 2015 - Locks and Keys   

Richard Phillips

 

At the meeting on 17th November Richard Phillips delivered a most interesting illustrated talk on the history and use of Keys and Locks. He led us back 4000 years to Egypt and Iran and thereafter to the spread of security devices through Europe via the Romans, Celts and Vikings. He introduced us to the importance of the 1851 Great Exhibition and locksmiths of the time and of the rivalries that developed. Great names appeared over the years which are well known to us all – Bramah, Yale and Chubb, and the personal histories behind them. In more modern times the precision engineering skills of China have dominated the market. Computers have reduced the security of standard mechanical locks and keys, and electronic devices themselves are by no means foolproof. In conclusion Richard showed us a variety of locks and keys and assured us that the locksmith was always just one step ahead of the lock picker. Robert Kirkhope gave the vote of thanks. The next meeting will be on Tuesday 1st December. This is one of our open days and will feature the Biggar High School senior pupils with a presentation of their expedition to Peru.

 

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