Lamson & Goodnow 7" Carving Knife Re-Handled S Falls Mass 1850-70s

Silas Lamson began making scythe handles in Sterling Mass in the early 1800s he moved to Shelburne Mass in 1837 and joined with Ebenezer Goodnow to form Lamson-Goodnow Company in 1842 and changed to Lamson & Goodnow MFG Co in 1853.

This knife looks to be an earlier make from the company's long tenure. It is very likely from the early days of the 1850s or 60s, but could be as late as the 1970s. By the 1880s, I believe these hot stamps had been replaced by an acid etch. The hand forged after drop forged blade has been sharpened in some and was re-handled long ago in a light colored deciduous hardwood, possibly using nails as pins. It was done well, however, and is in keeping with its likely role as the main knife in a thrifty household. 

This knife shows a heavy English influence with its parallel spine and edge with pointed bullnose tip. The blade has seen some rust but is otherwise nice and full, not having had a lot of grinding done. A knife like this would be used for much more than just carving meat, for many households this would be an all-purpose knife, taking the place of today's chef knife, although it can't be used in the same way in the heel.