Period Shovel

[HMcGuireMD]

Does anyone know if there is a reproduction shovel that is period correct for our use?
HMcGuireMD
Hospital Steward
21st OVI

[lukegilly13]

Re: Period Shovel

There have been several posts about this before.
http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/...ghlight=shovel
It seems that you have two options. You can usually find originals in decent condition for a not so bad price. Also, I believe there are a few vendors out there that carry some good ones.

[PieBoy96]

Re: Period Shovel

Originals can be had for anywhere from $5 to $60 at flea markets, antique stores, eBay, &c. Just be sure to know what you're looking for! Here are two articles to get you on the right track (these mostly pertain to US Army issue tools rather than the large assortment available on the common market at the time)

http://www.libertyrifles.org/research/dugtools.html

http://www.libertyrifles.org/research/tools.html

[Charles Heath]

Re: Period Shovel

Repop Ames #1 longhandled shovels are coming out of Brazil these days, and you'll find them mostly at Rev War and F&I vendors at their "trade faires" or "market days." As far as short handled shovels are concerned, I'll stick with the sentiments found in the lyrics of "Big Rock Candy Mountain."

[Swag]

Re: Period Shovel

I have to agree with Paul on this one, you should look in to going to local antique stores and flea markets, you can find loads of old timey tools at such locations. In my honest opinion I think the best places to look are antique shops and flea markets, the prices are unbeatable if you know where to look and the majority of the time you will be able to find some wonderful treasures.

[J. White]

Re: Period Shovel

Besides being the director of a civilian reenactor unit, I'm also active with my husband in a number of antique tool collecting organizations. As part of our CW impression as a soldiers aid society in the field (and for practical purposes as well), I have assembled a set of mid 19th century tools, including shovels, and a tool box, for use by our unit. We actually use the tools in camp as well as having them available for educational purposes. While a few of the tools are reproductions, most are hardy antiques which I've purchased from reputable vendors at antique stores or at tool collector organization meetings.

Although its name is misleading, the Mid West Tool Collector's Association (MWTCA) is one of the top three nation-wide (and international) organizations for antique tool collectors. Georgia is in its "Area M" region. A point of contact for Area M is Doug Fowler, of Tifton GA, (706) 629-8604. He can probably assist you in locating reputable sources for shovels and other tools in your area.

Jean-Marie White
Pallas Athena Ladies Aid Society (PALAS)

[markj]

Re: Period Shovel

I currently have two wood-handle shovels and a wood-handle spade, which I will sell for $25 each or all three for $70 + shipping. All of these shovels are in good condition, especially the grips which are in excellent shape--not split as is so often the case. All three items came out of Indiana estate sales.

I don't have pics immediately handy, but I can probably post them if I can track down a digital camera. The spade is particularly interesting as it has a very long and narrow "blade." I don't know if these spades are rare, but this is the first I've ever seen in ten years of collecting.

Regards,

Mark D. Jaeger
mrkjaeger@yahoo.com

[MissAnnaMae]

Re: Period Shovel

Along the same lines as shovels....

Would a spade(s) been used instead of a post hole digger in "our" times? If not, what would have been an equivalent tool?

[Johan Steele]

Re: Period Shovel

FWIW both Home Depot and Lowes recently (last year) sold a garden shovel and garden spade made in China that would pass as an original 19th century item w/ the stripping of the laquer on the handles. I was shocked to see the older style strap to secure the handles. The above mention of flea markets and antique shops for a source was spot on, often their quality and prices surpasses anything made today.