Exploring the Evolution of Door Hardware: From Latches to Levers

In my book "House of the Messenger", I explored some of the latches and hardware used in the reconstruction.  To keep the price affordable to the buyer, I omitted much resource material which may not directly apply to the reconstruction of the Joseph Greer House.  

In the many stories of architectural history, doors stand as silent sentinels, guarding the thresholds of homes and buildings. Yet, behind these portals lie a world of intricate hardware, each piece a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and innovation. From the humble latch to the ornate lever, understanding the evolution of door hardware unveils a fascinating narrative of utility and artistry.

 Before delving into the myriad forms of door hardware, it's essential to grasp the role of locks—a cornerstone of door security. In the early 18th century, rim locks dominated the landscape, their surface-mounted design a hallmark of colonial dwellings. Imported from England until America's burgeoning lock industry took root, these locks gradually gave way to mortise locks, discreetly nestled within the door's edge. Mortise locks, with only their trim visible, offered a blend of security and elegance, eventually yielding to the cost-effective and easily installed cylindrical locks of the 20th century.

At the heart of door hardware lies the ubiquitous doorknob, a spherical or oval handle that has graced entryways for centuries. Predominantly imported from Europe until the 1800s, knobs boasted an array of materials, from early brass and ironworks to cast iron, stamped metal, and the pinnacle of luxury—cut glass or crystal. With their durability and decorative appeal, brass and bronze knobs emerged as perennial favorites, epitomizing craftsmanship and style.

Beyond knobs, latches form the bedrock of door security, offering simple yet effective fastening mechanisms. Wrought-iron thumb latches, reminiscent of primitive wood-and-cord contraptions, dominated colonial households until the rise of rim locks. Evolving from utilitarian iron designs to ornate bronze and brass motifs, latches underwent a renaissance in the 19th century, adorning entrances with figural embellishments and intricate detailing.

Levers, a horizontal counterpart to knobs, trace their origins to Europe, gaining prominence in America by the late 19th century. Cast in iron or bronze, these handles exude both elegance and functionality, with designs ranging from simple curves to elaborate motifs. Unlike knobs, levers are handed, requiring careful consideration of placement and orientation—an aspect accentuated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which spurred renewed interest in ergonomic design.

When selecting hardware for old-house restoration or renovation, attention to detail is paramount. Understanding the function and hand of doors (left or right swing)—determined by the placement of hinges—ensures a seamless integration of hardware. Whether it's a latch for a colonial-era dwelling or a lever inspired by continental elegance, each piece of hardware adds depth and character to the architectural flavor, bridging the past with the present in a harmonious union of form and function.

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Some sources:

MURRAY, Carolyn, (2022), "Knobs, Latches, and Levers", Getting a handle on historic hardware styles, Old House Online, Accessed Jan 2024 https://www.oldhouseonline.com/interiors-and-decor/knobs-latches-and-levers/

POLSON, Mary Ellen, (2021) "Hand Forged & Foundry Cast", The forms of reproduction hardware may look familiar, but the techniques used to make these pieces have changed dramatically, Old House Online, Accessed Jan 2024 https://www.oldhouseonline.com/interiors-and-decor/hand-forged-foundry-cast/

Additional website sources:

•  https://www.historichousefitters.com/ordercatalog.asp
•  https://architecturalobserver.com/door-hardware-part-two-1850-to-1900/

All proceeds from the sale of the "House of the Messenger" support the Joseph Greer Chapter and the Tennessee Society, Sons of the American Revolution. The funds will be allocated to historical and educational programs dedicated to the founding principles of the republic and the Constitution of the United States.