A Presentation & Demonstration by Bob LaPalme

In the past, almost everyone carried a pocket knife.  That’s because knives were critical tools, with designs developed for specific purposes. Their usefulness went well beyond sharpening a writing quill or whittling a stick. In fact, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, no matter what your trade — ferrrier, gardener, carpenter, sailor, seamstress … you name it — you owned a specific knife to help you accomplish specific tasks.
 
In this presentation, local expert Bob LaPalme will showcase some of the knives in his personal collection to highlight the evolution of knife technology, their designs, uses, and cultural significance.  His demonstration will be followed by a Q & A.

Bob LaPalme grew up in the West Farms section of Northampton in an era where every boy carried a jackknife. Now a resident of Westhampton, he began collecting jackknives about 35 years ago.