4
edits
Changes
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
Line 1:
Line 1: + +
no edit summary
A '''shovel''' is a tool used for moving earth, sand and other granulates. It differs from spades because it is a real tool and not a [[suit of cards]].
A '''shovel''' is a tool used for moving earth, sand and other granulates. It differs from spades because it is a real tool and not a [[suit of cards]].
In 1884, John J. Holland of New Orleans, Louisiana, was granted a patent for a "combined shovel and shield." While shields and shovels had been used independently before, Holland's innovation was to combine the two functions in a single device. The shovel's blade was to be "quickly fixed in the slotted end of the handle," and was intended to be used in entrenchments, breast-works or rifle pits in war, or making roads or prospecting in peacetime. By carrying the device in a sling bag, one could use it as a breast plate in battle to protect the wearer. As an additional innovation, Holland suggested that a hollow handle could be used to carry small items, such as eating utensils or toilet articles. The United States Patent and Trademark Office granted patent number 291,782 to Holland on Jan. 8, 1884.