answersLogoWhite

0

Can manufacturers of early cans recommended using a cold chisel and hammer to open their cans, but users rarely had such tools available in the field when they wanted to eat.

The first "can openers" were often whatever device that the person already had, typically a knife or bayonet. These "can openers" were improvised in their use and were usually less than adequate.

On January 5, 1858, Waterbury native Ezra J. Warnerinvented the first tool specifically intended as a can opener (not some other tool being forced into this use). This was the first recorded patent (US patent No 19063) for a can opener. However, Warner's can opener was not a tool for household use, because it could be dangerous. Grocers opened the cans before they left the store.

The first can opener safe for household use was patented by William Lyman on July 12, 1870 (US patent No 105346).

User Avatar

Wiki User

8y ago

What else can I help you with?