I was given a B&O key, interesting piece. It is little over an inch or two long.
One side says “B&O S W Ry” the other side says “2825”
Does anyone know if this is just a general padlock key or would it hae had a very specific use? Any info appreciated. The person who gave it to me had no idea other than it was from the B&O RR.
Looks like a mainline line, switch lock, key to me. For the padlock, hence, the number, on the key and the lock.
Cheers, [D]
Frank
That’s a standard switch key that would open all switch locks,telephone boxes and other things that used a standard switch lock.
A standard key to be sure, but the Baltimore & Ohio South Western [often: Southwestern] Railroad or Ry was in Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana and perhaps Missouri, starting in the late 1890s. I do not known when that separate identifying name was dropped in favor of just plain B&O but it should indicate that this is indeed a vintage key.
Dave Nelson
The serif lettering indicates an early key as well. Probably late 19th century. It’s a keeper!
-Stan