Gamewell Box Lock Identification

[kettenhund54]

Does anyone know what this type of lock is called on certain Gamewell boxes? These were initially used on Gamewell's 1885 boxes and they used a distinctive barrel key. The lock has three screw holders on the top, bottom and left side. The key hole in the box front is open. I know Gamewell still used these type locks well into the 1950's on their aerial terminal boxes and enclosed selective relay boxes. Was this lock made by Gamewell or an outside lock company? Does anyone know if they are still available today or where one can be located? I'm attaching photos of the 1885 box and lock as well as Gamewell catalog pages from their 1955 catalog on the aerial terminal and relay boxes.

[almdoc]

The alarm box lock is a trap lock. It was designed to trap the key used to open the box. In the old days there were no keys in the alarm boxes. You had to go to a business close to the box or a prominant citizen who had a key and go open the box to send the alarm. The keys were numbered so as to find the location or person responsible for the key. The fire department had to release the key and return it. The release key fit in the small key hole in the back of the lock. I believe these were cast by Gamewell. You could get them in bit or barrel type. Bit being solid shaft and barrel being hollow shafted keys. The later versions are actually keyed as police locks like is shown on the aerial terminal boxes. I know Yale built the newer style locks with 4 mounting holes and they are still available. The old cast brass ones are not. Police locks operate like a normal lock. You can put the key in and take it out without the release key. Most police locks take a bit key. Hope this helps.

[kettenhund54]

Thanks for the info on this type of lock. I helps me greatly.