A 19th century American "Mountain Man's" utility knife marked "J.Russell & Co., Green River Works" circa 1840

A favorite amoung Mountain Men, trappers and hunters, these knives were made by J. Russell in Greenfield, MASS., beginning in 1832. Originally they were made as butcher and kitchen knives. The fame of these knives began when Frederick Ruxton published "Life in the Far West" in 1848. There have been articles written about who may have invented the Bowie knife and the Green River Works have been mentioned. Note: The very tip of the blade, so small that I can't measure it,has been broken off. An historic knife from the William Guthman collection. Overall length: 11"