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Keys are an essential part of life in the modern world, critical to protecting one's property and peace of mind. Both Eastern and Western cultures have long histories when it comes to keys, which indicates that the need for safety and security has always been a basic human need. From ancient wooden keys to today's key replacements, get to know the history of this fascinating device.

Ancient Times

Ancient Babylonia was among the first civilizations to recognize the value of the key. Starting around 704 BCE, they built wooden keys that unlocked a series of pins inside basic locks. Since they were made of wood, they didn't offer much in the way of enhanced protection. However, these locks and keys provided the groundwork for the more sophisticated models developed later by the Ancient Romans. Metals, like iron and bronze, replaced wooden systems, and the keys were smaller and easier to carry around. This is also where the skeleton key originated, as keys of this era tended to have a long shaft with a single tooth on the end.

Nineteenth Century

Skeleton keys were the norm for centuries after the fall of the Roman Empire. In 1848, famed lockmaster Linus Yale, Sr., designed a lock that would only allow a specific key to open it. In 1861, his son, Linus Yale, Jr., further perfected this system by making a small, flat key with a series of teeth along the shaft, designed to fit the unique pins of a specific lock. This ushered in the modern era of key-making and design.

Twentieth Century

key replacement Columbia, MOAs technology has progressed, so too have keys. Once only done by hand, key-making involved shaping a piece of metal to the exact configuration of a lock. Now, it is common for computers to quickly assess and create or duplicate a key, making it easier than ever to key a new lock or obtain a key replacement.

 

When you need dependable key-making or key replacement services, trust the locksmiths at Columbia Lock and Safe. Since 1991, they have been serving customers throughout the Columbia, MO, region. They offer lockout services for homes and vehicles, lock repair, and lost or broken key replacements. Call (573) 443-5397 today or visit them online to explore their full list of services.

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