JeffPo's Railroad Locks Page
Last update: 07/13/07
Locks were used on the railroad for the same reason they were used anywhere else....to keep people from messing with stuff. The railroad used various types of locks for securing baggage, doors, etc. Locks were also used to secure the setting of the railroad track switches.
Here's an example of a switch lock made by the Adlake company. The back of the lock, as well as the key are marked with PCRR, which stands for Penn Central Railroad. The key is brass, and hollow. The lock is either steel or some kind of aluminum alloy.
Here's an example of a switch lock used by the Norfolk & Western railroad. It is referred to as a "cast back" and is made of brass. The key is marked with N&W RY. This type of lock, which is older than the one above, is considered more collectible.
Here's an example of a switch lock used by the Union Pacific railroad. The key is marked with UP.
Here's an example of a switch lock used by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. The key is marked with PRR.
Links
If you haven't done so already, visit my Trains/Railroad page, my Railroad Lantern page, or my Model Trains page.