Suffolk
style thumblatches (A-D) were in common use throughout all of the colonies
during the 18th and early 19th centuries. The “Bean Latch” (A) was the first and
most popular design.
Originally made by English blacksmiths and imported here, the American smiths
soon began producing these and many other designs. The cusp and handle styles
eventually became as numerous as the craftsmen who made them and, we are pleased
to offer a selection of four popular designs.
A complete thumblatch set
has 4 separate parts.
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1. Catch (drive shown)
2. Staple (drive shown)
3. Thumblatch handle & tail
4. Latch Bar (plain bar shown)
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