Historical information

Commercial tin openers first appeared in the mid 19th century and this model dates from the early 20th century. An improved version when a second serrated wheel was added came into operation about the mid 1920s. Tins (now cans) of food with sealed tops became popular in the 20th century and all households needed a tin opener. Today the can opener is still used but increasingly the can lids have an inbuilt clip that is pulled out to open the can.

Significance

This tin opener has been retained as an early model of a tin opener from the past. It was used locally in Wodonga and donated by a Wodonga resident. It is also in relatively good condition.

Physical description

This is a cast iron tin opener with a cutting blade attached to a piece of metal with a screw. The metal handle curves out from the metal piece holding the blade. The opener is a little rusty in parts. The name ‘Guard ’ is on both sides of the handle in raised metal letters.

Inscriptions & markings

"GUARD" in raised letters on both sides of the handle.