John M. Mossman Lock Museum facts for kids
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The John M. Mossman Lock Collection is a fascinating museum located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It's housed within the historic General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York building. This museum holds one of the biggest collections of bank and vault locks in the world. You can explore more than 370 different locks, keys, and tools here. These items show how locks have changed over thousands of years, from 4000 BC all the way to the 20th century.
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What is the Mossman Lock Collection?
The John M. Mossman Lock Collection is a unique museum. It focuses on the history and technology of locks. These aren't just any locks; many were used to protect huge amounts of money and important papers. The collection helps us understand how people have kept their valuables safe for centuries.
A World of Locks
When you visit, you'll see many different kinds of locks. There are ancient Egyptian wooden-pin locks. You can also find interesting Chinese padlocks. More modern examples include American time locks. These special locks would only open at a certain time. All these amazing items are displayed in bright glass cases. They are on the second floor of the General Society building.
Secrets and Stories
Next to the lock displays, you'll see old, sturdy trunks. These trunks have very clever, hidden keyholes. Bankers once used them to carry valuable items safely. Many locks in the collection are one-of-a-kind. They were made specially and not sold in stores. Almost every lock you see once guarded millions of dollars or important documents. Imagine the secrets these locks could tell!
Learning from the Past
Mr. Mossman, who started this collection, also gave his notes and scrapbooks to the museum. These are called the "Mossman Papers." They are a very helpful resource for anyone studying locks. In 1928, a book called The Lure of the Lock was published. It describes every lock in the collection. You can get this book and a photo CD of the collection from the Society.
Visiting the Museum
Besides the locks, the museum also has other interesting items. Friends and members have donated old curiosities, rare books, and prints. You can also see flags, clocks, and medals. The museum is open to everyone. Admission to view this amazing collection costs $10. It's a great place to learn about history and how technology has kept our world secure.
