Early Boxwood Folding Ruler with Board Foot Scale | 24-Inch English Carpenter’s Rule c. 1880-1910

For the artisan … a worn but characterful 24-inch folding ruler in solid boxwood, dating to the late 1800s and likely made by one of the major English toolmakers of the period. Crafted for professional use, it features brass end caps and hinges, the distinct lettering of the era, and a deep, mellow patina earned over a century of handling. As a very early boxwood rule, this would make a special gift for the craftsman and would display beautifully in a workshop or study.

One side of the rule shows standard 1/16-inch increments, while the reverse includes a secondary scale used for estimating board feet, a traditional way of measuring rough-cut timber volume. Still legible beneath the wear is the stamp “WARRANTED BEST BOXWOOD”, along with the owner’s name: “G.J. MARTIN” carefully incised in the wood.  Each of these, along with graduations that continue cleanly across the brass hinge joints, mark this as a true tradesman's tool—built for precision and durability.

Dimensions: 24” x 3/4” x 1/8” 
Weight: 4.0 oz.

Condition Notes: Good antique condition overall with visible surface wear, scuffs, and fading to scale markings consistent with age and use. Boxwood body shows a warm, even patina with no major cracks or splits. Brass hinges remain fully functional and securely affixed, with minor corrosion and pitting to the main central hinge. Rule folds and unfolds easily; joints are somewhat loose as expected from age and use. When folded, the sections show a slight misalignment typical of older examples, but overall structure remains sound. Inch graduations are largely legible on both sides, with partial rubbing in areas from long handling. Reverse side retains board foot scale with clearly stamped numerals from 48 to 60. Marked “WARRANTED BEST BOXWOOD” at midsection; owner’s name “G.J. MARTIN” is stamped in two locations.  Brass ends stamped with five-pointed star motifs (unknown). Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

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