Wednesday, October 10, 2012

What the heck is a Draw Clip?

 
I have been unable to find a patent for an item apparently invented and marketed by a German immigrant ancestor who was a blacksmith and carriage maker at the turn of the last century. I am hoping that some kind soul might be able to help me locate further information regarding this product. According to an advertisement in the 1891 Buffalo City Directory, Frank J. Doll (Franz Josef) and Martin F. Koebel manufactured the Doll Anti Rattler Excelsior Draw Clips from their shop at 258 Broadway (Near Pine Street) in Buffalo, Erie, New York.




The patent date illustrated in the advertisement is 31 January 1882.  Although I have searched numerous online databases and reviewed the patent book collection at the Denver Public Library, I have been unable to locate any information on this product.

Do you have any suggestions on other research strategies?  Why am I unable to find this patent?

Click below on Comments for the answer.