Background

This DVD combines three formerly separate lock, key and file making Compilations (Nos. 4, 5 & 21) to give an insight into the fascinating industries around Willenhall in 1987.

All three were made with the help of The Lock Museum (Willenhall) and Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council.

Part 1, Locks: H.E.Fletcher, steel cabinet lock maker, New Invention
(formerly Compilation 4, running time 49 mins.)
NGR: SJ 978 016
This old family firm run by two brothers, made a variety of cabinet locks by hand and supplied several large retail stores.

Since this recording was made the works have now closed.

Part 2, Keys: Arthur Hough & Sons, Key Makers, Essington
(formerly Compilation 5, running time 36 mins.)
NGR: SJ 963 035
In 1882 Arthur Hough formed a company to make keys.

For over one hundred years, this family firm has supplied key blanks and finished keys to all parts of the lock industry.

Now from it's modern key making factory it is capable of supplying tens of millions of items per year, using the latest production machinery.

Part 3, Files: Wilf Davies, Filemaker
(Compilation 21, running time 23 mins.)
NGR: SO 961 984
Wilf Davies was recorded demonstrating hand file cutting at the age of 80 in the Lock Museum, Willenhall in July 1987. Wilf has been involved in the cutting and making of files since he was 14 years old. Today, files are machine-made, but hand made files are still highly prized by the skilled metal-worker.

This recording follows the complete process of file cutting, including hardening of the finished file in salt water.

Details

• This compilation has no commentary.
• NGR: SJ 978 016, SJ 963 035, SO 961 984
• £ 14.40 - DVD
• Total running time: 107 mins.
• Recorded July 1987
• Price includes worldwide delivery.
• 'PAL' and 'NTSC' versions available.

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