Old Key Identification

I found this old key buried in my yard encrusted in a thick layer of rust and was barely recognizable. I've since soaked in vinegar to remove many layers of rust. I'm trying to get a sense of the age. The property was built in 1830 however the land has been in use since the mid 17th century. Any ideas of the age and use of this key?

Thanks

 

How BIG is that key, please???

 

Should have included that. Almost 5 inches exact.

 

Cool thing to dig up..Where do you live? Maybe a antique skeleton key?

 

Dug up in Dedham Massachusetts. The only similar looking keys I can find date back to the 18th century.

 

in 1835...the husband had to leave on a 9 week voyage.....and placed his young wife in a metal and leather chastity belt.......giving the key to his older trusted butler !

Upon his return home......the old butler was found naked , clutching the belt....& had died from a massive heart attack....and the wife ...had taken all the husbands money and moved away to parts unknown....!!

There u have the age and use of your key.....

& somewhere....that young wife is still smiling ......

 

Komo, I think you have the MOST Creative mind of all the antiquers I know!!!!!!!

 

Our man DaveyD explained a bit about skeleton keys here:

old Keys

 

I'm just a story teller.....

 

"Creative" is not exactly the word I was thinking....

 

go ahead.....express yourself...

then we'll get back to helping with the key !!

 

any churches in the area?

 

@Bev aka thelmasstuff -- If she sees this, would also have thoughts on this.

 

Too late for confession and redemption @komokwa .......lol