147

Stage Screws

Because of their shape, these pieces are sometimes offered for sale as corkscrews. They

are actually stage screws.

The stage screw design above left was offered in a c.1950 catalog from H. M. Sanders

Co., Boston. Red, white, and blue finishes were available at prices ranging from $12.35

to $13.80 per dozen.

Definition: STAGE SCREW A large screw which is screwed through the

―

foot

‖

of a

stage brace to secure it to a strong wooden floor. Only suitable for use in theatres with

non-precious wooden floors!

Frank Lippincott wrote

―

In utilizing my

invention the screw may be inserted in the

stage-floor, walls, or upper structure to

provide a fixed point of attachment, so that

cables, hooks, guy-ropes, &c., may be readily

engaged with the ring portions and fastened

to the handle, or the device may be used in

connection with the various stage-settings

and scenery-frames as a fastening means or

coupling member.

‖

U. S. Patent No. 820,655

was issued May 15, 1906 for a

―

Stage Screw

.‖