Expert: Ralph Salier - 1/2/2006

Question
Not sure if this is right catagory.
Trying to find out how the term "Skelton Key" came about.  In particular real locks that used such a key.  This may fall in the history of locks, but I am finding too much on movie Skelton key..
If such a 'master key' was made, why?

Answer
Hi Mark

The term Skelton Key comes from the fact that it is a "bare bones" kind of key.  These fit into very simple locks and generally only move 2 or 3 tumblers.  Some are more complex with additional axis cut into them or "S" shapes but in general, these were large simple keys to go with large simple locks.   How did they come about.  As with any protective device, the owners of valuables wanted to have a way to secure these items behind a door or with in a cabinet.  Many of these old cabinets had a "key" to "opening" the hidden compartment.  The key was generally a wooden slide which then exposed a release mechanism that opened the hidden compartment or door.  But as these became more common, the theives learned how to "break" into these and steal the contents.  The "lock" was then developed which required an external "key" to open the compartment or door.rather then an integrated one.  Over time, the theives learned to out wit these as well and locks became more and more complex.  

Key masters were developed by lock smiths to simplify their work.  They would design several locks with different tumbler configurations for different clients but he would make one for him self to open all of them so that if the client should lock himself out, he could let them back in and make a new key.  These of course would occasionally fall into the wrong hands and  so on.

There are several books on the subject which you may  beable to find in your local library or some data may even be on line under the heading of the history of lock smithing.  Good luck.