Posted by Chris Gower on March 10, 2002 at 16:22:09:
In Reply to: darbys posted by george b. mc minn on March 08, 2002 at 12:33:27:
Sorry to tell you but both previous answers are wrong. I quote from Alex Nichols new book 'What became the standard D shaped barrel lock handcuffs are known in Britain as 'Darbies'. This is a slang expression said to derive from the phrase "Father Darby's bands" a severe contract between borrowers and a notorious eighteenth moneylender'. Regarding them being patented, the standard internally threaded key was never patented but Walter Brooke of 66 Empire Road, Sheffield did patent a handcuff in 1904 (No 7421) which shows the externally threaded key and was the model that Hiatt manufacturered for a number of years. Their early advert clearly states this model is only for sale to Police Officers. I have just spoken to Alex Nichols and he informs me his new book should be available at the end of April I believe it will without doubt be the most comprehensive book ever written on handcuffs and restraints. There will be over 300 pages and over 400 illustrations. For further information contact Alex directly on Alex84610@aol.com