Q I bought this key almost 20 years ago. I know it’s from the “Frisco,” but can anyone date it or explain the “S” stamp?
— Rick Goodell, Etna, Maine
— Rick Goodell, Etna, Maine
A A plain “S,” like on the key shown, means it is a switch key. Early railroad switch padlocks and keys came in various styles, but became standardized in the late 19th century using this basic barrel design. Most switch locks were made of brass until the World War I era, when steel locks began to predominate. Switch keys almost always continued to be made of brass.
— Jim Hutzler, railroad memorabilia appraiser
These same key's are still available from at least the rail road I work for and come in two sizes and shapes meaning one is smaller in diameter.I've had my keys for 20 years and used it on a portable derail for the first 4 years of my career.Railroad Machinist.