Goodell Bros. Spiral Screwdriver Ca. 1890's

This is a very rare tool manufactured in the 1890's in Greenfield Mass! This slot bit screwdriver is 13" long fully extended, 8.5" long closed and locked in a stationary position, without the bit in the chuck. This one is in good useable condition, with one 1/4" wide slot bit included. The middle brass ferrule is marked "GOODELL BROS. GREENFIELD MASS. PATENT JULY 22, 18.. NOV. .....". The later patent date is Nov. 17, 1891, but is not quite visible on this tool. Goodell Bros. continue manufacturing until 1899 when they became Goodell-Pratt. This is a unique design with a good solid wood handle, that has some wear, dings and scratches, but still looks nice. The spiral feature is in nice shape, has a little bit of play, but is straight and turns smoothly in the clockwise driving direction only, hence screwdriver and not undriver, as it turns counterclockwise on the pull stroke. It will lock into the closed position for use without the spiral drive if you wish, works fine. The notched bit is removable, held in place very tightly with a good screw chuck. Overall a very nice clean too. A very nice collectible screwdriver overall!