Antique “YALE” Santa Fe railroad signal lock.
Original numbered key and it’s in great working condition and has original patina.
Locks was and still integral part of railroad operations.
A single company’s territory could be stretch for over hundreds of miles, so the security of its facilities were of utmost importance.
Consider how much damage a single misaligned switch might cause, and it’s no wonder that railroad companies paid considerable attention to security from the very beginnings of the railroad industry.
It measures 3″ tall and 2 1/8″ wide.