I found these small date nails in Austin Texas. They were at the Austin Antique Mall, which is a great place if you have the time for it. It is quite big, and many of the vendors have great collections and I always accumulate a diverse pile each and every time I am there.

More recently, I found the pole markers in South Jersey, with the graphics and markings that were attached to telephone poles throughout the country identifying their ownership.

I really love them together on this wooden piece.

The numbers indicated on each nail noted the year in which the nail was made and used. 38 referring to 1938, 42- 1942 etc. It allowed them to keep track of the year the track was laid. Some railroads found that the date nails lasted longer than others because the men tended to take special care of the numbered ones.

By now, you know I love them because of the numbers, the fonts, the graphics, patina, character and history.

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