In ancient times, people didn’t have locks like we do now. They had to rely on hired guards to protect their valuable stuff. But as time went on, humans got smarter and started making better ways to keep things safe. The whole process was very slow but steady too. In this particular blog, we have tried to dig into the history of locks with short details. Let’s take a trip back in time to learn about how locks have changed over the years.
Pin Tumbler Locks: Ancient Locks with a Twist
Think back to around 4000 B.C., when the Assyrian King Sargon II ruled. Archaeologists found a wooden lock and key from that time, suggesting it was one of the earliest locks ever made. Fast forward to the 1800s, and an American guy named Linus Yale, Sr. patented a type of lock called the pin tumbler lock. His son, Linus Yale, Jr., later made the keys flat with grooves on the sides. These keys looked a lot like the ones we use today. Brands like Yale and Schlage still make locks based on their designs.
Sliding Bolt Locks: The Granddaddy of Deadbolts
The next big innovation took place around 1000 B.C. when the Greeks were using sliding bolt locks. These were basic locks where a metal key with notches could slide a bolt open to unlock a door. The idea was simple but effective. It’s kind of like the deadbolts we have now, but way simpler.
Warded Locks: A Medieval Marvel
As time went on, people kept improving locks. The ancient Chinese, Romans, and Egyptians started making metal locks called warded locks. These locks needed special keys with matching shapes to open them. By the Middle Ages, English craftsmen were making fancy warded locks with all sorts of intricate designs. They were like works of art that kept stuff safe.
Safety Locks: Locks that Tried to Outsmart Thieves
In 1784, an English guy named Joseph Bramah invented something called the safety lock. It had a special key with different-sized notches that could rotate and open the lock when they lined up just right. Bramah thought his lock was unbeatable, but an American locksmith named Alfred C. Hobbs proved him wrong at an exhibition in 1851. This led to even more cool lock designs, like the protector lock and the Merican lock.
Combination Locks: No Keys Needed!
Believe it or not, there were locks without keys way back in ancient times. They used codes made of letters, numbers, or symbols instead.
People found these kinds of locks in ruins in places like Rome, Greece, and Arabia. Then, in the 1800s, guys like Linus Yale, Jr., and Joseph Loch made combination locks with spinning discs. These locks only opened when the discs were lined up just right, kind of like a secret code.
Bringing Locks into the Future
Today, locksmiths have all sorts of cool locks for homes and businesses. From old-fashioned ones to fancy electronic ones, there’s something for everyone. Whether you need to upgrade your old lock or want to try out the latest tech, keeping your stuff safe is still super important. While in BC, you can contact all kinds of locksmith-related services like car lockout, lost mailbox key, emergency lockout, locked out of the house, and more.
So, as we look back on the history of locks, let’s remember how far we’ve come. From simple wooden contraptions to high-tech security systems, locks have always been about keeping what’s ours safe. And with each new invention, we get closer to making sure nothing gets past us. If you find this blog to be interesting, keep in touch with us until our next blog!
