I need certain prices from the 1940's, I need the price of a penknife, an ax, flint & steel and a tinderbox for a reading report. I have been on several different sites to find archival information, but I cannot find anything. My parents said not to subscribe to anything and as of now I'm out of luck unless someone here can help me?

Are you asking about the 1940s or the 1840s? Flint and steel and tinderboxes were rarely sold in the 1940s. We used cigarette lighters and matches then.

Please repost confirming the date, and we'll try to help you.

I recommend you call your local public library, ask to speak to the reference librarian, and tell her you need a Sears or Wards Catalogue for 1940. It may take a month or two to get it, so be prepared. That refererence librarian is probably your best bet, as this was ages before the internet.

It is from a book and the time frame was the 1940's.

Rebecca, there's no reason to keep reposting the same information.

I still question why you need the prices of flint, steel, and tinderboxes from the 1940s. However, you can find today's prices for these items and divide by 10 to find what they would have cost in the 1940s.

Finding specific prices for items from the 1940s can be a bit challenging, especially if you're looking for archived information without access to subscription-based websites. However, there are a few alternative methods you can try to gather the information you need:

1. Historical Newspaper Archives: Many libraries and institutions maintain physical or digital collections of old newspapers. These archives might include advertisements from the 1940s that mention the prices of various items. Contact your local library and inquire if they have any newspaper archives available for public access.

2. Antique Shops and Online Marketplaces: Visit local antique shops or explore online marketplaces that specialize in vintage items. Antique shops often have knowledgeable staff who might be able to provide you with historical pricing information. Online platforms like eBay or Etsy may also have listings or sold items from the 1940s, giving you an idea of the prices.

3. Check Library Resources: Some libraries have books or reference materials specifically dedicated to the history of prices or consumer goods. Check the library's catalog or online resources to see if they have any relevant books or databases you can access.

4. Contact Historical Societies or Museums: Local historical societies or museums sometimes have archives that include price lists or catalogs from specific time periods. Reach out to these organizations and inquire if they can assist you in finding the information you need.

Remember, finding specific price information for items from several decades ago may not always be easy or readily available. Be prepared to combine different sources, rely on estimates, or make educated guesses based on the available information.