Penknife identification...

[sandbender]

I posted this query in BB, but thought I'd also try here.

I've been given this penknife and I'd be curious to know if anyone has seen something similar, is it a one off or were they manufactured in bulk.

Engraved on one side are the words...

John Anderson
Head Warder
General Prison Perth

A web search has suggested that John Anderson was the Head Warden circa 1867.

One side of the penknife levers up to reveal a quill cutting template, one inserts a feather and then closes the lever to make a quill, simple but brilliant

Any info would be appreciated.

 

[Shing]

I think these were widely manufactured. I remember as a kid seeing a similar knife in a display at my local library in Sheffield along with a razor and other cutlery. I think Sheffield was a centre for the manufacture of them.

Quill knives fell out of favour when the steel nipped pen was invented and people stopped using feathers.