I would like some suggestions on information on planes. I recently
> acquired a couple of old timers (I think) that are fairly gunked and
> rusted. Or does gunk prevent rust. Anyway, I am interested both in
> brands/types/history and in the proper usage of each type. Any
> suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
There are a number of excellent web sites. Here's one that has lots of good links and references, including the hands-down best book, Garret Hack's _The Handplane Book_:
Kevin