Square nails were last commonly used around 1830.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Early Production (Late 1700s - c. 1830): Square-head nails were initially manufactured from the late 1700s until approximately 1830. These nails were primarily machine-cut, with blacksmiths often adding the finishing touches by squaring the heads.
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Transitional Period (1830 - 1890): From 1830 to 1890, cabinetmakers commonly used headless, machine-cut nails. These nails had a distinct tapered, rectangular shape.
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Modern Nail Introduction (c. 1890): The introduction of modern wire, brad, or penny nails around 1890 marked the decline of widespread square nail use.
In summary, while square nails may have seen limited use after 1830 in specific niche applications, their primary period of use largely ended around that time with the advent of new nail manufacturing techniques.
