The world is changing quickly, and new technology is continually replacing old. It’s obvious to observe how much has changed in the previous 50 to 100 years, with generations of children growing up who have no concept why we say “call a phone number.” However, a photo of a tool whose name and purpose confounded even the most seasoned memory was recently distributed. Can you guess what it is?

The photograph posted on the nostalgia website Do You Remember appears to be some sort of gardening tool at first glance. It’s easy to trust because of its scoop-like appearance and a sharper piece on the interior. This was a common assumption in the comment section. However, if you believe it is a trowel, you should reconsider.

In the photo, this unknown object appears to be a hand-held object. The handle’s shape, as well as the expected size, suggest as much. Some believe it was used to open clams rather than as a garden tool.

Those folks are likewise mistaken.

This antique ‘tool’ turns out to be an oil spout rather than a tool. Before plastic bottles, oil was sold in cans. Oil spouts were developed to be added for a spill-free pour since it is more difficult to pour oil from a can without it glugging everywhere and making a mess.

There are still a lot of these available because oil spouts were designed to be reused. When you went to the petrol station to fill up, you usually used them. An attendant would come out and pour oil from the can into your tank using the oil spout. They would then dispose of the can while keeping the tool for future customers.

Many of us will not remember a time when gas pumps, plastic oil canisters, and oil spouts were commonplace. Though historical tools and other antiques are no longer in use, it’s always fun to take a little trip back in time with them.