At Locksmith Winchester, we’re passionate about all things locks—from cutting-edge smart security systems to ancient keys and mechanisms. The history of locks is full of clever innovations and surprising stories that most people have never heard.
Here are five of our favourite lesser-known facts about locks that might just change how you see your front door.
1. The First Locks Were Wooden and Over 6,000 Years Old
Origins in Ancient Mesopotamia
The earliest known lock was discovered in the ruins of Nineveh (modern-day Iraq), dating back to around 4,000 BC. Constructed entirely from wood, it used a pin-tumbler system: the key lifted wooden pins to free a sliding bolt.
While primitive, the concept behind this ancient lock survives to this day. Modern pin-tumbler locks operate on almost exactly the same principle—only now, they’re made of brass and steel instead of timber.
2. The Romans Revolutionised Lockmaking with Metal and Wards
From Wood to Bronze and Iron
The ancient Romans were the first to use metal in locks and keys, typically bronze or iron. More importantly, they developed the concept of wards—internal barriers within the lock that only a correctly shaped key could bypass.
This innovation led to the development of the warded lock, a type still commonly found in antique doors, cabinets, and period furniture.
Keys as Jewellery
Roman citizens of higher status often wore their keys as rings. These key-rings were both symbolic and practical, serving as a visible sign of wealth, ownership, and responsibility.
3. The First Tamper-Resistant Lock Was Invented in 1818
The Chubb Detector Lock
In 1818, British inventor Jeremiah Chubb introduced the detector lock—a major step forward in lock security. If someone tried to pick it, the lock would jam internally, requiring the correct key to reset the mechanism.
This built-in anti-tampering feature was so effective that Chubb won a government prize for his invention. His designs became standard in banks, prisons, and public buildings throughout the 19th century.
4. Skeleton Keys Were Once Everyday Tools
What Is a Skeleton Key?
Despite the spooky name, a skeleton key is simply a master key for warded locks. By filing down the key to its simplest functional shape, it can bypass many of the internal wards, allowing access to multiple locks of similar design.
These keys were practical in large homes, hotels, and estates before the rise of more complex locking mechanisms. Today, they’re still useful for antique restorations and furniture.
5. Key-in-Knob Locks Are Surprisingly Modern
A 20th-Century Convenience
Most people assume the key-in-knob lock has been around forever. In reality, this design didn’t become widespread until the 1920s and 1930s. Before that, front doors were usually secured with mortice locks, which are installed into a recess in the door edge.
While knob locks are convenient, they’re often less secure than a properly installed mortice system. That’s why we still recommend British Standard mortice locks for external doors whenever possible.
Passionate About Lock History? So Are We.
From restoring antique lever locks to cutting bespoke keys for 19th-century cabinets, Locksmith Winchester combines traditional craftsmanship with modern precision. Whether you own a period property, collect antiques, or just enjoy learning about the engineering behind security, we’re here to help.
Need assistance with an old or unusual lock? Contact us today. We love a challenge.
