Long, broad bladed knives like this one were common implements on late 19th and early 20th century farms. Farmers used these sharp blades to cut corn stalks. Sugar cane, bamboo and rice are also cut with this kind of knife. The farmer using this machete-like knife will swing the blade at the base of the stalk. The stalks are bundled, waiting for the cobs to be removed. The 1897 Sears, Roebuck and Company catalog sold corn knives for 22 cents each or $2.40 per dozen.