New York, New York, August 21, 1888 - LeRoy Fairchild wrote "This invention relates to that class of corkscrews designed to be carried about the person, the object being to produce a very compact, strong, and neat implement, one that will occupy little space, and can be closed so as to exclude dust and dirt."

Fairchild is referring to the "Roundlet" or "Beau Brummel" type corkscrew in which the worm is stored in a cylinder which serves as a handle when the worm is pulled our and turned at a right angle to the cylinder. A number of these types are already in production with the majority having a two part cylinder that threads together fixing the worm as tightly as possible. Instead of threading his together, Fairchild uses two tubes within the outer casing which interlock when not in use. One of the tubes has a slot into which the worm pivots tightly. Once the worm is placed in position, the second tube / handle assembly is engaged and locks it firmly in place.

Today United States Patent Number 388,125 was issued to Fairchild for his invention.

Fairchild corkscrews can be found with patent information on the tube or on the worm shank.

In addition to corkscrews Fairchild manufactures gold and silver pen and pencil cases, match boxes, "Segar" cutters, glove hooks, shoe hooks, and more

At left is Richard Collard's 1885 combined match box and cigar cutter patent number 311,230 which was assigned to Fairchild. On the right are pen and pencil designs by Fairchild.

---

August is Golf Month

---

News Index

---