Historical information

A draw knife is a hand tool that has a long straight blade between two handles. As implied by its name. it is drawn like a knife across the wood. It is used to prepare the timber for the next step of the process, removing loose wood and bark and giving a start to making the wood into a round or cylindrical shape. Then a finer smoother finish is given with a spokeshave, which has a shorter, curved blade. A draw knife could be used for the wooden spokes for cart, wagon and carriage wheels as well as for ladder staves and ship wheels. Features of a good draw knife include tight handles, a blade with plenty of metal to it and a blade length of 20 to 24 centimetres.

This draw knife was likely made at least 150 years ago by C Johnson of Sheffield, who used the Trade Mark “C.J.” within a flag. Christopher Johnson began work as a cutler, making knives, pocket knives and tableware in his works at Howard Street in Sheffield. In the book ‘Hand-Saw Makers of Britain by Schaeffer and McConnel, Johnson is listed in 1855 as a saw maker. A later reference has the business name of Johnson & Company, Sheffield in 1879-1882. Australia was one of the company’s markets. The company continued until its closure in 1955.

Significance

This draw knife is significant for being made in Sheffield, a location famous for steel and silver manufacturers.
It is significant because of its age, being made no later than 1879, which is the time period of our maritime Village.
It is a tool most suitable for the blacksmith's or a ship' smith's workshop for making spokes for the wheels of wagons and carts, and for making ship's wheels..
It is also significant for being made by C Johnson, who was well known for his good workmanship.

Physical description

Draw knife; flat cast steel fixed blade with rotating wooden handles each end. Round bulbous handles have two parallel scored lines around the end furthest from the blade and a brass collar between the handle and blade. A logo and inscription are cast into the centre front of the blade. Made by C Johnson. of Sheffield.

Inscriptions & markings

Cast into steel blade: Sideways Image “C.J.” within {flag}, “JOHNSON / CAST STEEL”