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They could be powered either by gunpowder or by compressed air. The two sections locked and would only release when a hidden button was pushed. Many of these canes were so finely crafted that it was hard to tell if the cane was a weapon unless the owner showed how it would open. The tops of some canes detached and formed the handle for small deadly daggers others sprayed chemicals. Spring-driven knives which shot from the tip of the cane and were powerful enough to split boards were produced. Canes with swords hidden in their shafts were quite popular. One weapon cane could become a mace–a ball of sharp spikes swinging on the end of a chain. Gadget canes were made for all purposes, including protection.
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As indicated in the article “Antique Canes and Walking Sticks” in this website, according to legend, the first use of a gadget cane led to the modern silk industry. This type of cane is called a gadget cane–one that had other uses than just as a walking stick. Photographers could choose from a variety of canes which contained small cameras. The table’s top was created from tightly stretched silk.
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Gamblers had canes that would fold open, making small tables. Musicians had canes that would fold open into music stands or musical instruments. Undertakers had canes that would screw down the lids of coffins. Similar canes could be found for grain buyers. When the cane was removed, the buyer would learn if the vat’s center had been filled with lard. They could stick their cane into the vats of butter, turn the handle, and a scoop at the bottom of the cane would take a sample. Canes were made for men who bought butter wholesale. Tradesmen carried canes containing tools they would use in their business. Just as ties were chosen, Victorian gentlemen took the same care in choosing the proper cane to carry.īecause they were so popular, canes were produced in a wide variety of styles, materials, decorative elements and even functions. When canes were at their most popular during the 19th century, a true gentleman would no more go out for any type of a formal call than would the average businessman through the 1980’s would have gone out without a tie. They stood perhaps in an ornate oak cane holder, ready for the gentleman of the house to choose as he left for the day. Canes used for utilitarian purposes generally don’t elicit much comment.