Did You Know?

Contributed by John Ashton

The quick-release buckle is used every day all over the world. Many individuals start first thing in the morning with its use to fasten computer bags, walk the dog or even adjust a chin strap on a hockey helmet. These types of buckles are used in just about every aspect of our protective lives.

However, DID YOU KNOW, that the first prototype was designed in Pictou County, by Arthur Davy (Dary)?

Born in Charlottetown, P.E.I, in 1882, Davy would learn his trade as a machinist and was employed at the Sutherland Rifle Site Factory in New Glasgow. He registered the design with the Canadian Government Patents Office on Feb. 6th, 1911.

The functioning idea of Arthur’s quick-release buckle was described in his patent application as “improving rein connectors by replacing the ordinary buckle with a simplified and effective way for connecting and disconnecting the extremities."

Courtesy: Arthur Davy’s Canadian Patent application -1911

Canadian Intellectual Property Office.

Footnote:

John Ashton is a Pictou County historical researcher, newspaper columnist, author, graphic, and visual artist. He has operated his

business Ashton Creative Design from his Bridgeville studio, office/gallery, and archives for over 37 years.