Traditional Handsaw with a Closed Handle
Date1907
Dimensions18 × 64.4 × 2 cm
Credit LineGift of Miss. M. I. Matthews, London, Ontario, 1966
Object number1966.013.001
Label TextAccording to an inscription on this saw, it was used to cut the joist that released the body of Clara Mallin, aged 22, who was killed when Reid's Crystal Hall collapsed on July 16, 1907. pThe collapse of the structure killed seven. The other victims were Tantum Howitt (48), Lola Adelaide (Aylesworth) Howitt (46), Wiliam T. Hamilton (53), William Tambling (14), Clarence Smith (33), and Joseph Long (27).For decades, Reid's, a glass and crockery retail and wholesale business, had sold a wide range of goods. In 1907, Reid leased part of the building to Peter Smirlie, who planned to open a bowling alley and billiards hall. Against his builders’ advice, Smirlie added windows and replaced the main floor’s centre wall with iron pillars. London had no building inspectors to prevent the changes. Investigators did not blame anyone for the disaster. London hired its first building inspector not long after.
NameSaw, Hand
CopyrightImage © Toni Hafkenscheid
