Here we have a rare gem of a system cane straight out of turn of the century England. I've never seen one in the flesh until this beauty appeared out of a Twin Cities collection of antique system canes, mostly from Europe. The antique silver pea whistle was made by the Robert Pringle silversmith shop, and they're known as Wilderness Works Whistles. Check out the mark with the crossed axes (see pic). And the whistles will still stop traffic if the cane doesn't first.
Here is a website with info on the history of
Robert Pringle & Sons.
So in old time England the whistle helped snag a taxi something quick. Imagine standing there looking like a million antique bucks, leaning on this beauty. Here comes a taxi, and here comes a shriek from your cane. This thing is so cool the design will heat you up on a cold evening. Smokin'
The collection containing this rare walking cane was created by a couple who traveled to Europe to find the rarest system canes. They were highly successful.
I'm listing the rare walking stick as from the early 1900s but I wouldn't be surprised if it's from the late 1800s. The whistle looks to be silver plated (at least) and the handle and ferule is likely brass. Also, there looks to be a metal rod at the center of the shaft (see pic of the ferule).
The unusual system cane measures 36 1/4" tall and the handle with whistle measures just under 5". There is perfect patina along the brass and silver. Some of the silver plating is fading (see pics). The walking stick is solid and built to last. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO boxes please). Free shipping on the unusual gadget cane.
You know what the likelihood of finding one anywhere around here? I wish I was that good. Unbelievable and historical walking cane.
