Antique TWO-FOOT, TWO-FOLD FOLDING RULE by A. Gifford, Westport, Massachusetts
This arch joint, half bound rule is imprinted with architect's scales
Rule maker Anthony Gifford was also whaling ship captain
Measures approx. 24" long when folded out
Two pins In place with brass pin holder
Name is stamped faintly, but there
Brass slide moves well
Ca 1840-1850
For reasons that aren't completely clear, Gifford established a rule making factory near a village known as "Head of Westport." The name derives from the fact that the village is located at the head of the tide in the local estuary. This is about 10 or 12 miles upstream from the open Atlantic Ocean. Gifford rules were made over a time span that probably was no longer than about 20 years, and they are fairly uncommon to find today. The Wings estimate that there may be no more than 75 to 100 in existence.
CONDITION
Very Good
Very Good
Stain around brass hinge
Name is difficult to read, but there near stain
No other issues noted
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