Jennifer Royer, museum curator at Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, says that December’s mystery tool is a slate punch. This tool is designed for cutting and punching holes into shingles. Side-lap shingles are commonly found in 18th- and 19th-century Pennsylvania German areas. The shingles are long and narrow. They lap side to side, as well as butt to tip. They are face nailed with a single nail near the butt of each shingle.
Numerous readers correctly identified the tool as one used for punching holes. However, most struggled to determine what material it was specifically designed to pierce, with the majority guessing it was intended for leather belts or harnesses.
A few others thought it was a flax breaker, a tool used to crush the woody stems of flax plants. Breaking the stems separated the fibers, allowing them to be carded into tow (a bundle of untwisted, continuous fibers). Once prepared, the tow could be spun into thread and woven into linen fabric.
One reader thought it was for poking holes into cheese, which became my favorite incorrect answer.
Correct Answers
Correct answers were provided by Alan Confer, Dale Griffith, Nelson Landis, and Mike M.
Can you guess this month’s tool?
Here’s January’s mystery tool—can you guess its purpose? The object measures 28 inches in length, 2 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in depth.
If you think you know what it is, share your guess using the contact form below. Include your full name and the town where you live. Submissions are due by Monday, January 27, 2025. The correct answer will be revealed on Friday, January 31. Good luck!
Submission Form
Your message has been sent
For information, visit landisvalleymuseum.org.
Upcoming Events
Learn how to use pen and ink to create an elaborate letter in the Fraktur style of the late 1700s. Participants will also have the option to grain-paint their own frame to fit their finished 8 x 10 piece. Perfect to give as a gift or keep as your own, All supplies are included. All ability levels are welcome.
The workshop is held in the Museum Store second floor classroom – there is one flight of stairs.
Friday, January 17, 2025, 10 AM – 1 PM $105.00 All sales are final, no refunds. Proceeds benefit the Museum. Click here to learn more.
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William Wagner’s 1821 Map of Lancaster CountyPrice range: $24.99 through $44.99
The Craftsman 1908. . . no, actually it’s the Binford 1800 special side saddle measuring stick. Or the Ronco . . .