The History of Locksmiths

Much of the history of locksmith services can be traced back to the existence of blacksmithing in the middle ages. Blacksmiths were labourers who worked by hand with metal and steel, most often creating armours and weapons for knights and soldiers and horseshoes for their horses. As the years progressed, the need for someone to shape simple metal locks and keys became inevitable. Higher crime rates were a major factor in the invention of locks – people needed a device to secure their homes and their personal belongings. Thus, the service of a locksmith evolved into a larger industry.

It was in the early 1930’s when the first complex locks where constructed and introduced to the market. The upgrade of the lock quality became more difficult for burglars and thefts to pick through the previous basic designs. A locksmith became in demand, following another increase in theft and burglary crimes. It was during this period that locksmiths were specifically recognized as a necessity in the community.

Although metal locks were unheard of in the past, history states that locks have already existed even during the Biblical times. They were crudely made of wood, meant to seal gates and doors from enemies. Using the basic principle of security, people of the olden times would set wooden bars against their gates or doors from the inside to try to prevent unwanted guests from coming in. This operation became a basis for metal locks which came much later into the picture.

The most ancient mechanical lock was found among the ruins of a Palace in Egypt. It was composed of two crossbars mounted on two surfaces with only a keyhole to disable it. It was operated by dropping pins into small holes in the crossbar so that once the pins are set in place, the door becomes locked. To unlock the door, the key is inserted into the keyhole, pushing the previously dropped pins out of the way.

In the 14th century, locksmith guilds became common associations but only locksmiths who have successfully presented their inventions were promoted to master locksmiths. Sadly, the guild eventually gained control of all locksmiths and set forth strict regulations in pricing and design. Corruption became an insolent factor in causing the advancement of these beautiful locks. The inventions of master locksmiths remained in the hall for display and not for commercial or public use.

During the World War 2, locksmiths became hard to find because they were either drafted into the army, or simply too concerned of the raging warfare when man’s most basic needs where even difficult to obtain. Although a few locksmiths went on with their business, their income declined drastically as well because of the plummeting economy.

Today, locksmith services are found worldwide. Many companies have moved on to produce in bulk a myriad of devices for security purposes. Locks are now considered as standard commodities which can be bought almost anywhere. Locksmiths have also extended their expertise: selling, installing, replacing and repairing keys and locks are some of the major services offered by locksmiths at present.