History of Locksmithing

Locksmithing has been an ancient profession that has experienced drastic changes throughout history
Initially, designing locks was a simple task, and specialized locksmiths were not required. However, with the passage of time, more complicated designs emerged, and rose skilled locksmiths became an essential part of society. As buildings doors became more secure in the 18th century, the need for specialized and useful locks increased. This resulted in a revolution in the industry sector which posed a challenge to locksmiths to create more innovative and reliable locks.

 – When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace:

However, it was during the Middle Ages that locksmithing became a trade on its own. As more technical locks came into existence, blacksmiths and other metalworkers started specializing in designing and manufacturing them. They were also responsible for installing locks and keys for their clients. Eventually, blacksmiths decided to focus solely on locksmithing as they mastered the art of creating great skill in specific profession. Locksmiths formed a profession that expected workers to have mastered people and technical skills. This resulted in a revolution in the industry sector which posed a challenge to locksmiths to create more innovative and reliable locks.

Exodus 22:2-3 – If a thief be found breaking up, and be smitten that he die, there shall no blood be shed for him.   

A locksmith must be a trusted and reliable person with a tremendous skill

 – Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.

Skilled metalworkers were hired to create locks for the wealthy. They worked in locksmith offices and were responsible for a wide range of lock tasks, including the repair of tools and lock key systems. As time went by, locksmithing evolved into a more modern industry, requiring talented metalworkers to keep up with the most updated lock technology.

 – But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

With electronic lock systems becoming popular, locksmiths have expanded their skill sets to include installations and repairs of these complex systems. Locksmiths are known for their ability to shape metal and create new locks that protect many assets. Forging keys was also an important part of their work during this period. This resulted in a revolution in the industry sector which posed a challenge to locksmiths to create more innovative and reliable locks that could keep up with changing times.

The history of locksmithing dates back to ancient times when locks were made of wood and metal
Most locksmiths were involved in making keys and designing lock sets for homes and businesses. However, with the advancement in technology, locksmithing has evolved significantly over the years. Today, locksmiths perform a range of services including electronic lock servicing, higher quality lock sets, keying key control systems, and replacing lost keys. They are also involved in access control systems and other systems protecting individuals. This resulted in a revolution in the industry sector which posed a challenge to locksmiths to create more innovative and reliable locks that could keep up with changing times.

 – A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

People relied on Roman locksmiths to build lock and key systems. The credited Roman locksmiths were known for their expertise in improving security by making key ward systems that were difficult to pick. For several years, maintaining security was a challenge until the Egyptian pin tumbler technology was introduced. Modern pin tumbler locks were invented in the early 1800s and became popular due to their effectiveness. Locks and keys were used by people to secure their property, and changeable combination locks were later introduced for added security. Locksmiths had to invent new types of locks and filing metal to make them more secure. The first locksmiths were specialized locksmiths who had the necessary skills for designing and manufacturing locks. They were responsible for creating several locks, including wooden locks, which were the first locks to be invented. As time went by, the profession of locksmithing became an art form, with locksmiths creating keys and other protective hardware devices to prevent intrusion. Locksmiths had to invent new types of locks and filing metal to make them more secure. They used metals such as iron and steel to create their devices because these metals were durable and could withstand forceful entry attempts.

 – (A Psalm of David.) Blessed be the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:

Professional locksmiths who were able to unlock wooden locks with ease
These locks and keys were the foundation for the creation of strong locks that would outwit thieves. As time passed, locksmiths continued to create more beautiful and intricate locking devices, leading to modern locking devices that we use today. With extreme technological and security advancements, locksmiths have created other security devices to secure homes and ensure security safety. Early locksmiths made first locks using a tumbler wooden key that was kept in place by carved wood. The made method only had a mere three mechanisms, including crossbeam tumbler. Persia is credited with the first locks, and they were found in Khorsabad where they were used to secure royal palaces. Today, locks made are more advanced and have several security mechanisms, including crossbeam tumblers.

Over the centuries, locksmiths have improved the actual mechanisms within locks, moving from inserting large wooden keys to intricate systems of pins and pegs. As they became skilled metalworkers, they also improved the aesthetics of their products with ornate designs and decorating techniques for nobility. The pin tumbler principle was eventually introduced in which moveable pins could be raised or lowered by a key to allow entry.

 – Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

As locksmithing evolved over time, it gave rise to different specializations such as forensic locksmiths, automotive lock specialists, and specialist safe technicians. From the earliest days of ancient locks that were simple but effective, the field of locksmithing has progressed to elaborate locks with beautiful designs that were devised by artistic locksmiths. With the introduction of the pin tumbler principle in locks, more advanced systems were developed that allowed for a master key or key system to be used. The skill required for this type of work was highly specialized and those who became system specialists or investigatory experts often had years of experience in the field.