Images(4)

Knife, Pocket

Object number2007.178.49

OriginJapan

MediumPlastic; Stainless Steel; Paint

Credit LineGift of Joe Davis

DescriptionMetal pocket knife with curved handle. Handle white with clear, hard plastic covering: on one side, gold and red image of lion, accented in gold; on opposite side, in gold and underlined, is name of animal. DimensionsOpened Width: 1.375 ; Length: 9.375
Closed Width: 1.25 ; Length: 5
InscriptionsOn one side, in gold and underlined, "LION".
MarksEngraving on blade, near hilt: "STAINLESS / STEEL / JAPAN".
Historical NotesArnold Herbert Smith was a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner--Sahara Temple #2. This object was most likely associated with his Shriner background. Arnold Herbert Smith was a Pittsburgh police officer before spending twelve years with the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Police Force. Arnold Herbert Smith, Sr., was born on October 11, 1923, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Schenley High School in 1942, and quickly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving in the Pacific Theater. Three years later he married Mattie Lesesne; four children were born to this marriage. Years after his divorce to Mattie, he married Estella Pennington, with whom he had one son. Smith worked as a steelworker before joining the Pittsburgh Police Force in 1974; he eventually worked for the Housing Authority before retiring in 1986. Smith was also active in organizations, being a 32nd Degree Mason, a Shriner, and a member of both the Veterans of Foreign Affairs and the Fraternal Order of Police. He died September 19, 1999.

Previous owner Arnold Herbert Smith Sr. (1923 - 1999)

Related institution Pittsburgh Bureau of Police

Related institution Shriners International (founded 1870)

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