Any help on ID

[Joe RM AV8R]

Any ideas on this vintage tool? It came from a Toledo Ohio estate sale, one of several just like it. Posted here from another forum that is running out of ideas. Any help with the ID appreciated.

 

[WisJim]

It's a siding or clapboard gauge, maybe craftsman made rather than a factory item, but nicely done. Used to hold a piece of wood lap siding in place while installing it. One of mine is a Stanley No 89. Attached is a page from an Audel's manual showing the use.

 

[Mintgrun]

Here's the Stanley No. 88 that was in my "what's it?" category for years, before I finally looked up the patent date and figured out what it was.

US Patent: 344,937 - Clapboard-Marker

US patent 344,937 Clapboard-Marker was issued to James F. Beebe of New Haven, CT. It was granted on 07/06/1886. This is the best-known and most common of the clapboard gage patents. The design is quite straightforward and works well, which made the

www.datamp.org

 

[Joe RM AV8R]

Well done! Thanks to both replies and excellent explanations. I can't believe I didn't see it, but I was convinced it was something else. I've made something similar to help install Hardi Board Siding. The HD version is pictured.

 

[WisJim]

I have my grandfather's (maybe my great-grandfather's) Stanley 88 and 89 and also a couple of others by other companies. Handy tools if you ever need them. It would make sense to have a pair or more of them.