05/22/2026
🪚 A Cut Above: The Evolution of the Saw! 🪚
From the massive pit to the delicate veneer, the variety of saws in the 19th century was staggering. Each of these lots represents a specific solution to a woodworking (or medical!) challenge.
Historical Fun Facts: The Open Pit Saw.
This was the giant of the forest! Before sawmills were common, two men (the "topman" and the "pitman") would use this massive blade to manually rip whole logs into planks. It was grueling, back-breaking work that literally built early America.
The Bone Saw: Not all saws were for wood! Lot 175 is a specialized medical instrument. In the era before power tools, surgeons relied on finely crafted, high-carbon steel saws for quick, precise amputations.
Foot Treadle Scroll Saw: A precursor to the modern jigsaw, these were powered by the operator's foot, much like an old sewing machine. This allowed the craftsman to have both hands free to guide the wood through intricate, decorative "fretwork" patterns.
Veneer Saw: These small, curved blades were designed to cut thin layers of expensive wood without tearing the delicate grain, allowing cabinetmakers to create the beautiful inlaid surfaces seen on high-end antique furniture.
Auction Details
📍 IN-PERSON Auction: Ronora Lodge, Watervliet, MI
🗓️ Date & Time: May 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM
🛻 Free Dealer Tailgating!
📝 Absentee Bids: Accepted April 30 – May 29.
🌐 Full Catalog & Details: finetoolj.com
