The primitive-looking tool turned out to be a vintage can opener, notorious for leaving scars on unskilled users trying to pry open cans.

Humble can opener

The history of the can opener begins with the invention of canned food, which came long before anyone figured out a convenient way to open it.

Early cans were tough to open, requiring a lot of effort, and it wasn’t until 1858 that American inventor Ezra Warner developed a tool designed to pierce the lids. This opener, resembling a lever with a curved blade, was cumbersome but functional. It was mainly used by the U.S. military during the Civil War, but it wasn’t ideal for home use.

In 1870, William Lyman made significant improvements with a rotating cutting wheel, making the process of opening cans much easier and safer. While his invention laid the foundation for modern can openers, it still demanded some skill and strength to use effectively.

Can openers through the years:

• Lever-Type opener (1858): The original design by Ezra Warner, primarily used by the military.
• Rotary opener (1870): William Lyman’s design with a cutting wheel.
• Keyed cans (1900s): Cans with built-in keys to roll back lids (like old sardine cans).
• Electric openers (1930s): A bulky but innovative leap into automation.
• Ergonomic handheld openers (1950s): Easy to use and efficient.

Today

Can openers have evolved significantly thanks to advances in technology, simplifying the task of opening cans! However, many people still swear by the old-fashioned design.

“Wanted to buy a new one, you cannot find them now,” one user writes, while another adds, “Still the best can opener!!”

A third user comments, “I still have one and use it on occasion. Dangerous bugger if not used properly.”

So, the next time you come across an interesting object, take a photo and share it with us!