Retracing the History of Locksmithing in the 20th Century

Whether you’re looking for a secure place to keep a family heirloom or a new gun, one of the best storage options for you to  invest in is a home safe. For hundreds of years, people have used locks and safes to protect their most precious keepsakes from theft or loss. Here is a brief look at the history of locksmithing in the 20th century:

Family Apprenticeship in the early 20th Century
When locksmithing began to take off as a valued trade in the 1920’s and 1930’s, it was still resigned to families with a history in the craft. Fathers taught their apprentice sons secret family methods for creating skeleton keys and flat mailbox keys that could be used in both commercial and residential property locks.

Cylindrical Locks in the 1950’s
During the 1950’s, locks evolved from the standard pin, bit, and skeleton mortise locks into more advanced padlocks and eventually, a cylindrical design lock. This type of lock was introduced by Schlage decades earlier, however it evolved during the 50’s and became the new in-demand lock style for homeowners and shop owners.

Key Code Cutting Machines of the 1970’s
After the Associated Locksmiths of America was founded in the mid-1950’s, locksmiths became more united and influential. For the next two decades, locksmith companies advanced their products to meet demands such as the public desire to add auxiliary cylindrical deadbolt latches to standard locks. Key code cutting machines also appeared on the scene in the 70’s, which made it easier to produce keys.

American Desire for Increased Security
From the 1980’s onwards, locksmithing companies began to cater their services towards a more secure-minded crowd. Americans desired safer locks on their homes, cars, and safes. This led to the development of devices like the Passive Anti-Theft System created by Ford and electronic locks for commercial and industrial establishments.

Armstrong Lock & Security Products has evolved with the craft of locksmithing since opening our doors in 1929. From gun safes to access control systems, we sell the latest and most technologically advanced equipment available to protect your home or business. To learn about our high-security products , visit us online or call (321) 800-4982.