Grinding Through History

Knife grinders in France in the 1900s adopted a unique posture for their trade: lying face down to prevent back hunching from long work hours. During this meticulous task, some even nestled their dogs between their legs for warmth. While innovative for its time, this method reflected the lack of ergonomic understanding prevalent in the early 20th century.

Today, advancements in occupational health emphasize the importance of ergonomics, leading to safer, more comfortable working conditions. Knife grinding itself has evolved, with modern machinery reducing physical strain. This historical glimpse into a grinder’s life contrasts sharply with modern practices, highlighting progress in both technology and workplace health standards.