What is this?

[rosie12]

Does anyone have any information about this piece? I'm assuming its silverplate, but I am clueless about its function and maker. All it says on the back is "The Schuyler Pat." Any ideas?

[dognose]

Hi,

What is the size of the item?

Trev.

[rosie12]

Hi,

What is the size of the item?

Trev.

5 7/8" long

[Traintime]

Length would seem to negate a corn holder (for all but a one-armed man--see "The Fugitive"), so perhaps a device to separate kernels from your ear (or even colonels if you poke 'em right). [Didn't spot a patent on this particular device, but it might only be on the applied pattern design rather than function.]

[Traintime]

Is the blade end thin for cutting? (Some variant of "corn knife") If it's not, then another possible could be to lift an individual butter pat and hold it against the ear for spreading.

[Traintime]

Finally, it might just be the handle end of something missing the working head..the stub could insert to be held in place with a ferule or collet. The length of that stub may help.

[rosie12]

Finally, it might just be the handle end of something missing the working head..the stub could insert to be held in place with a ferule or collet. The length of that stub may help.

The stub measures 1" long. I was wondering if it was missing a piece. Thanks to everyone for all the great suggestions!

[silverly]

You can google this to see what looks like a variation of your handle: ANTIQUE FRUIT KNIFE 5 1/2" STRATFORD CO. THE SCHUYLER PAT.
It doesn't answer all the questions about this item, but maybe it's a piece of the puzzle.

[Traintime]

The US patent for the Bustanoby Corn Holder (#US889434A granted 1908) shows in the original drawings how the knobbed prongs (ear handles) were suspended/rested on hooks. But there is another hook shown and mention of a corn scraper. Maybe this item is a scraper patented soley for the decorative design?