Small wooden tools

Title

Small wooden tools

Subject

hobo art
history
culture

Description

Rivaling a Swiss army knife and carved from a single piece of wood. Hoboes' ability to carve is most evidenced by their monikers, or nicknames, carved like tradesmarks on railroad sheds. Most pieces lack identification. A token or tinket a hobo might carve and give to someone in exchange for a favor. Discrimination against hoboes. Individuality and personal style. Most likely made for children.

Date

1980s

Contributor

Minneapolis Skinny

Format

tramp art
hobo art

Language

English

Type

still image

Identifier

Tools

Citation

“Small wooden tools,” Hobo Archive, accessed October 5, 2024, http://hoboarchive.lib.uiowa.edu/items/show/156.