This is an extremely hard to find original 1890's cast iron corn cutter.  It is marked "Address I.Z. Merriam, Whitewater, Wis., Pat Mar 29, 1892, Sep 8 & Mar 29, 1874". All three patents were granted to James Parker of Palmyra, Wisconsin.  This cutter was used by farmers to cut corn stalks when harvesting. They would strap this cutter to the calf of their leg at the top with a leather strap. It went under their boot and anchored at the bottom with the heel hook. It left your hands free to hold the corn stalks and allowed the user to cut them without bending over.  It is in very good condition for being about 130 years old with one slight crack as I've pointed out in a picture.  This won't affect its displayability.  It seems to have some original red and green paint remnants on it yet.  This would be a great and rare addition to your early farm implement collection or display especially if you like corn items!  I doubt there's many of these left to be found in the wild.  The pictures tell the story.   I can be reached at: 262 573 193 1 if you'd like to talk about it.  Good Luck.