A Publication of the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association

Studying, Preserving, and Sharing Knowledge of Tools Millers 1872 Patent Combination Plane story begins on page 30

M-WTCA.ORG

The Earliest Four Lincoln Axe Etching Designs story begins on page 11

June 2009 No. 135 The Gristmill Index

Features Departments Lost Art of Craftsmanship ...... 7 Chaff ...... 4 The Lincoln Axe ...... 11 Committee Reports ...... 5 James Killam, The Plane Maker ...... 17 Area Meetings ...... 8 You Can't Hear it Coming if it Tool Family Trees ...... l 0 Doesn 't Make a Sound ...... 22 Collection Spotlight ...... 24 No Question About it, These Lest We Forget ...... 37 Collecting Brothers Are Twins ...... 23 Obituaries ...... 39 Leonard Bailey: The Years at Auxiliary ...... 41 Stanley Rule & Level Co., Part I ...... 30 What's-It ...... 52 My Two Strange Stanley Planes ...... 38 The Time Machine, Fantasy from 18th Century Colonial America ...... 44

The Gristmill No.135 June, 2009

Copyright 2009 by Mid-West Tool Collectors Directors Committee Chairman Association, Inc. AU rights reserved. www.mwtca.org Area A AreaJ Elections ...... George Wanamaker Eric Mattson, 2009 Joel Hodapp, 2009 Meeting Planning...... Bob Fields Editor & Advertising Manager: Bill Kolm Hollis Feeser, 2010 Lloyd Henley, 2009 Membership...... John Walkowiak 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623 Robert Nelson, 2011 Rick Kerns, 2011 Scholarship ...... George Elsass Contributing Editors: Nikki Borkovetz, Bob Roger AreaB AreaK Gristmill Editor ...... Bill Kolm Graphic Design: Tracie Sis Gary Kane, 2009 David Howell, 2009 Special Publications ...... Vincent Soukup The G.-istmill is the official publication of the Mid-West Pete Haitmann, 2010 Bill Youa1t, 2010 By-Laws and Policy ...... Vaughn Simmons Steve McNulty, 2011 Monte Harold, 2011 Tool Collectors Association, Inc. Published quarterly in What's It...... Ron White March, June, September and December. The pmpose of the association is to promote the preserva­ AreaC AreaL Di.rectory ...... Larry TI1orson tion, study and understanding of ancient tools, implements Jim Crainrnoncl, 2009 Dave Fessler, 2011 Preservation & Education ...... Phil Baker and devices of farm, home, industry and shop of the pio­ Del Galofaro, 2010 Marion Henley Award ...... Mel Ring neers; also, to study the crafts in which these objects were Mike Stemple, 2011 AreaM Displays & Awards ...... Bob Valich used and the craftsmen who used them; and to share knowl­ Ronnie Glover, 2009 edge and understanding with others, especially where it may Fainily Assistance ...... Don Riley AreaD Richard Bradshaw, 2010 benefit restoration, museums and like institutions. Internet ...... Don Bosse Fred Leu, 2009 President Willian1 Rupert, 2010 AreaN Address Labels ...... Kerry Mccalla Eel Hobbs Ed Chabal, 2011 Vincent Soukup, 2009 Scrapbook ...... Barb & Mike Slasinski 4417 Inwood Road, Raleigh, NC 27603-3315 William Morgai1, 2010 [email protected] (919) 828-2754 AreaE Phil Baker, 2011 Russ Allen, 2009 Vice-President of Elections Gary Jolmson, 2009 AreaO Where to Send What Please note where to send what so it will reach the George Wanamaker Ron Knon, 2010 Bob Weaver, 2009 right person. 321 S. Lafayette, Macomb, IL 61455-2233 Robert Olesen, 2011 Bob Valich, 2010 [email protected] (309) 836-6872 Allan Foster, 20 II Send changes in your address, phone number or Vice-President of Meeting Planning AreaF E-Mail to: KLM Computer SelYices, c/o Kerry McCalla, 104 Engle Ct., Franklin, TN 37069, phone (615) 791-6198, Bob Fields CarlBilderback,2009 AreaP E-Mail [email protected] 7835 Mount Holly Huntersville, Charlotte, NC 28216-8710 Bill Mai-Jow, 2009 Richard Weymer II, 2009 [email protected] (704) 393-1282 Mark Johnson, 2011 Jack Zin1111ennan, 2010 Request The Gristmill copies from: Carl Gray, 17140 M-WTCA.ORGVaughn Sin1111ons, 2011 28 Mile Road, Ray, Michigan 48096-2905, phone (586) Vice-President of Membership Area G Donald Stark, 2011 781-9467, E-Mail: [email protected] Jolm Walkowiak Dennis Eckstein, 2009 Dues are $25 3452 Humboldt Avenue South, Milmeapolis, MN 5540S-3332 Pay membership dues for current year: Ray Myers, 2010 AreaQ for USA, $33 for Canada & $44 for Foreign members. [email protected] (612) 824-0785 Roy Ebersole, 2011 Robert Oehman, 2009 Send your check made out to M-WTCA to LeRoy Witzel, Vice-President of Scholarship Tom Konsler, 2010 Treasurer, PO. Box 355 Humboldt, IA 50548-0535 phone George Elsass AreaH David Friday, 2011 (515) 890-0262 E-Mail [email protected]. Please 1315 Lakeside Place, Worthington, OH 43085-2893 Peter Habicht, 2010 write RENEW and your naine and address on your geoelsass@aol. com (614) 888-0591 Mark Hughes, 2011 AreaR check. Do not use a new member application to renew Walter Karsten, 2009 an existing membership. Treasurer Areal Jim Bode, 2010 Submit materials and advertising information to LeRoy Witzel James Goodson, 2010 The Gristmill: Send to Bill Kolm 3105 Cottonwood PO. Box 355, Humboldt, Iowa 50548-0355 Emory Goad, 2011 Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623, phone (402) 572-1238, [email protected] (515) 890-0262 E-Mail [email protected] Secretary Obtain scholarship information: Contact George The Gristmill is printed by Elman & Co. Inc. Larry Thorson Elsass 1315 Lakeside Place, Worthington, OH 4308&-2893, 6565 South 118th St. Omaha, Nebraska 68137 764 Stonebridge Avenue, Onalaska, WI 54650-8813 Phone (614) 888-0591, E-Mail [email protected] phone 402.346.0888 [email protected] (608) 779-0966z

2 The Gristmill Coming Up

M-WTCA National Meetings Spring 2009 ...... June 18-20, Lexington, KY. Bob Fields (704) 393-1282, [email protected] Fall 2009 ...... October 29-31, Indianapolis, IN.

2009 M-WTCA Area Meetings Area D ...... Meet ..... July 18, Mt. Pleasant, IA Area B ...... Meet ..... Sept. 12, Genoa, WI Ed Chabal (319) 3854710, [email protected] Lany Thorson (608) 779-0966, [email protected] Area C...... Meet ..... July 18, Kalamazoo, Ml Area C ...... Meet .....Sept. 19, Dearborn, Ml Jim Crammond (734) 241-0549,[email protected] Del Galofaro (734) 676-0997, [email protected] Area Q ...... Meet .. ... July 25, Raleigh, NC Area D ...... Meet ..... Oct. 11, Omaha, NE Ed Hobbs (919) 828-2754, [email protected] Fred Leu (402) 592-1907, [email protected] Area E ...... Meet .....Aug . 2, LaFox, IL Area Q ...... Meet .....Nov . 7, Betllania, NC George Cella (630) 377-3646, [email protected] Robert Oehrnan (919) 858-8506, [email protected] Area N ...... Meet ..... Aug. 15, Maitland, FL Area P ...... Meet ..... Nov. 14, Broadway, VA Phil Baker (941) 485-6981, [email protected] Vaughn Simmons (540) 432--0617, Area A...... Meet .... Aug. 16, Rochester, MN [email protected] Hollis Feeser (507) 282-3175, [email protected] Area E ...... Meet ..... Nov. 15, Carlinville, IL Area F ...... Meet ... .. Aug. 22, La Porte, IN Bob Terry (618) 377-3421, [email protected] Carl Bilderback (219) 362-9869

2010 M-WTCA Area Meetings Area I...... Meet... ..Feb. 6, Bedford, TX Area I,J,K. ... Meet ... .. Feb. 6, Bentonville, AR Gregor Mszar (817) 937-5475, [email protected] Emery Goad (888) 889-3340, [email protected]

Dates must be cleared with Jim Bramel (502) 863-1226 E-Mail: [email protected]

Ladies & Gentlemen ... Start Your Engines! by Bob Fields

Start your engines and come join all your friends and fellow While we are there, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will M-WTCA members in Indianapolis, Indiana for our National be celebrating its Centennial Era: 100 Years of Speed. To Semi-Annual Fall meeting on October 29-31, 2009. reflect on that, our meeting theme for the tool collectors will be: "Tools that have helped America race ahead." The Our host hotel will be the newly redecorated Adams Mark Auxiliary has chosen "Life on the Prairie" for their meeting Hotel (1-800-444-2326) that is just off I-465 near the airport theme. Put your thinking caps on and begin planning now on the southwest side of Indianapolis. We will have all of for your display, as they add so much to the meeting expe­ our program and trade/display rooms in the hotel itself. The rience for everyone attending. parking lot is conveniently located just behind the hotel, making it a very easy placeM-WTCA.ORG in which to get around. Your registration package will be mailed to you in late August with a comprehensive listing of Things To See and Do, Indianapolis, known as the "Crossroads of America," is con­ both coming into Indianapolis as well as points of interest in veniently located at the intersection of four major Interstate the Indianapolis area. Check out www.Indianapolis.org. or highways and well within a one-day's drive for a very large www.visitlndy.com or www.visitindianacom for ideas to help number of our members. While probably best known for the you plan your trip. Consider calling a fellow member today Indianapolis 500 Auto Race and other sports related activi­ and begin planning now for what you want to see and do as ties, Indianapolis is second only to Washington, D.C. for its a part of your meeting trip. Keep in mind that tl1e special monuments and museums, and for recognizing and honor­ $99 per night room rate is good for three days before and ing all the men and women in our armed forces who have after the meeting, so plan to come early and stay late and served our great country. You will soon find out why Indy's make the meeting part of a memorable Indiana vacation. slogan is "so easy to do so much." The hardest part will be figuring out what you want to do next!

June 2009 3 Chaff From The President, Ed Hobbs

When June gets here, I lrnow that fellowship that occurs when many people that share a we will be gathering for our Spring common interest gather together. And speaking of dis­ Semi-Annual National meeting and plays, please consider bringing one - both the auxiliary that our Fall meeting, which is and the men. We will guarantee that those who do a dis­ scheduled for late October, will not play will learn more while meeting others that share your be that far behind. These meetings interest and in tum, make everyone's meeting experience offer so much to see and do and so more enjoyable. many things to experience, that it is We are still looking for individuals to help with the semi­ really hard to describe what people annual meetings. Our new tean1 approach spreads the are missing when they do not take work across many people who use a standard and well­ advantage of this great benefit of documented "How To" guide that describes their duties. belonging to M-WTCA. Please go back to the last issue of The Gristmill and see Yes, I lrnow that travel can be a challenge both in terms of my article on "We Need You." While some people have distance and cost and also getting time off to attend may stepped up, we still have need for more team members. not be easy either, but just let me mention a few things to Try it, you will like it! consider that might make these challenges a little easier. Membership is down some this year with renewals lagging. Both 2009 meetings, Lexington, KY and Indianapolis, IN, are On the other hand, new member signup is ahead of where located fairly central to a very large number of our members we were last year. We lrnow that a lot of this has to do with and that should help minimize travel time and cost for many your efforts in finding good new members as well as every­ of you. While we highly recommend that everyone attends thing that everyone does that makes M-WTCA something for the full three days, we do offer a "Saturday Only" option people want to become a part of. Please continue to keep that provides a full day in the trade room which has not membership in your mind as you are out and about and in been "picked over" since our new fom1at only opens the contact with others that might share our interest. room for a very short time on Friday evening. In addition, And as always, if you have any ideas, suggestions, and the Saturday only option includes attendance at the What's questions or just want to "talk tools," please feel free to It session and a great Saturday afternoon program. contact me at (919) 828-2754 or [email protected] If you have attended before, you lrnow all about the pro­ - east coast time. grams, displays, tool trading, and most importantly, the

Membership by John Walkowiak

By the time you read this, I hope you have been able to plans. A very enjoyable meeting can take place in some­ attend at least one Area meeting this year. In my opinion, one's garage or back yard. It only takes two members to being able to attend Area meetings is one of the most have a meeting! This is the way Mid-West started. It important parts of a Mid West membership. This is where worked 40 years ago and it will work today as well. you can catch up with your fellow collectors who live in I would like to thank everyone who has helped our mem­ close proximity to you. It is a chance to kick back and bership by promoting us. The Silent Salesmen you have share what you have learned about your favorite tool put out for display and the membership brochures that since last getting together. M-WTCA.ORGIt is just a great time to spend you are including in your eBay and internet sales are real­ with others who share your interests. ly helping. These tri-folds have reached many folks who I lrnow there are some of you who do not have a meeting did not lrnow about us and are very happy to join us. to go to and I am sorry about that. There are several areas Please keep up the great work! Carry some membership around the country that either have very few members that brochures with you when you are out and about. If you cover a large territory, or there is another major tool club can use a Silent Salesman or brochures for your tool sales in the area that has meetings throughout the year. If you that are mailed around the country, please let me lrnow. I would like to have a Mid-West meeting, there are a couple will promptly get them to you. Also, if you have ideas for things you can do. One, is call your Area Director and talk promoting Mid-West, please get in touch with me, I would to him about planning a meeting. Be willing to pitch in. The like to hear them. other, is to look in the Directory and see what other mem­ bers live close to you. Give them a call and make some Have a great summer!

4 The Gristmill Committee Reports

Do You Want Fame and Recognition? Do You Have Knowledge or A Skill? by George Wanamaker

I have been asked to be a Program Coordinator. In this These activities can not be done without your help and capacity I would like to build a data base of members who participation. I believe most of you have some topic or are able to present programs and/or do demonstrations of skill that you would be great at speaking on or demon­ crafts or activities of the past. We will be using this informa­ strating. You would enjoy it tremendously! Your audience tion to select activities for national meetings in the future. will be your friends in Mid West Tool Collectors. In the past at national meetings we have had programs in the A complete list can never be given, but presentations afternoon or evening on topics of interest from the world of topics might include: tools. These topics have included specific tools, such as saws; • specific companies • wrenches • tips on collecting early manufacturers, like Master Rule Manufacturing Company; • patent searches • rules • machinist tools or specific times, relating to the 1880s wood shop just to men­ • how to research • time periods • my favorite tool tion a few. We have also had demonstrations of how to perform a topic • tilling a field • anything you can tasks of yesteryear, such as, grind com with a grist mill, repair­ • planes • making miniatures think of • saws • scientific tools ing a Panther head saw, or doing straight line engraving. A sample list of demonstrations is: I am asking people who have knowledge of a topic, almost any topic of interest to other members, to please contact me to • planning a board • picture framing • use of a lathe become part of our program/demonstrator data base. Topics • using a file • using treadle tools • use of boring tools • sharpening a saw • butter making • chair making can range from specific tools, times, processes, to specific • making miniatures • soap making • tool repair companies or products, to anything of.interest concerning the • hand engraving • dowel making tool world about which you are willing to present information. • wood carving • framing square use I am also looking for people willing to be demonstrators of To become part of this group contact me by mail at: George crafts or skills using tools. Examples might include sharpen­ Wanamaker 321 S. Lafayette Macomb, Ill, 61455 By phone ing plane blades, making a picture frame, filing, using a specif­ at: (309) 836-6872 By email at: [email protected] ic plane, anything that is a skill or uses tools, past or present. Or see me at a national meeting or local meeting in Illinois I will make every effort to make it easy for people to partic­ or Iowa. ipate in programs and demonstrations. I can provide time and place selection, and to some degree a conducive envi­ Give me your name and a brief description or title of what ronment in which to speak or demonstrate. All you need is you would enjoy doing. This is your tool club and if you information or skills and tools to use or a presentation. In are interested in something, no doubt there are many oth­ most cases audio-visual equipment can be arrange. ers interested in it, also.

Marion Henley Award

Ron Pearson, past president and long time member of M­ the characteristics that made Marion Henley such a well WTCA, has resigned as the chairman of the Marion Henley respected individual and a true friend of others." Award Committee. In accordance with the organization's M-WTCA.ORGPast recipients of the Award are; Ivan Risley, 1984; Bill 3 P's, past President Mel Ring, has been appointed by Holden, 1986; Ray Wilson, 1986; Harlow Sternberg, 1987; President Ed Hobbs to take his place. Bill Rigler, 1992; Mary Lou Stover, 1995; Mo Arnold, 1998; Marion Henley was an early member of M-WTCA and was Roger Smith, 1999; Ray Nissen, 2001; Ron Pearson, 2003; a key member of its leadership team during the early Phil Baker 2005; and Jim Mau, 2006. years. According to those who knew him, "he was a soft The new chairman Mel Ring, says his committee has been spoken gentle giant." His approach to things was low key established and is prepared to receive nominations from and he was patient and understanding in his assistance to the membership. He recommends that those interested in newer collectors. making a nomination first read the Section 10 of the 3 P's, The Marion Henley Award was established by the M-WTCA and then request a nomination form from him. Mel added to recognize members "who have made positive and mem­ that his email address in the Directory has an error and orable impact on all others, and who have demonstrated the correct address is [email protected]

June 2009 5 Preservation & Education National Parks Service by Phil Baker, Chairman Preservation & Education Committee

M-WTCA has been invited by the National Parks Service to Service, in hopes M-WTCA might have members in other participate in their 100th Anniversary coming up in 2016. It areas that would become a part of the 100th anniversary pro­ seems like a long way off but what must be accomplished in gram which in turn would become an ongoing activity. the next seven years is no small task. We hope to embark on It is no secret that the source of tools for our collections has an educational program that will benefit M-WTCA and the shrunken greatly in the past few years. Tool collectors in National Parks Service. most cases, will be obliged to become more choosey. Most M-WTCA's mission is best stated in Article 2 of our Bylaws. collections are sure to be smaller than in the past. What will "The purpose of the organization is to promote the preservation we do when we need a real "tool fix"? and study of antique and traditional tools, implements, devises I will use myself as an example. My collection is close to being of the trades, the shop and the farm; to study the ways that they . "built out". It is more difficult as each tool meet passes, to find were used and the individuals that developed and used them a saw that would add to what is already there. Today my "tool and to communicate this knowledge to the general public. fix" may consist of conveying what knowledge I have to oth­ Please read the above carefully. Nothing is said about trading, ers. Knowledge gained from my time with fellow collectors in buying or selling tools which is the meat and potatoes of our other tool types, provides a background in helping others as society. Article 2 is still there. This may be our chance to move well. Of utmost importance "DO NOT BE AFRAlD TO MAKE more M-WI'CA members toward "communicating our knowl­ A MISTAKE-LEARN FROM IT'! edge to the general public". Many of our members are actively There is an abundance of tool related material and friends to participating in this mission, as we found out in the 'Adopt a Site" support you in a learning experience. It is never too late to gain survey. There will be a need for more if this is going to work knowledge and share it with others. NOW HEAR THIS There are over 200 National Parks in the United States. Not LADIES-MID-WEST NEEDS YOU. This is a chance to join all are suitable for the activities we intend to provide. Your your mate and receive rewards you never thought of receiving. Preservation & Education Committee will identify Parks and We intend to provide a road map that will lead you to a real their location suitable to our talents. "tool fix". Not everyone will care to provide a program for Our Ex-President Jim Price PH.D is Chief of the Resource the Parks Service or our "Adopt a Site" effort. However, Management Division of the Ozark National Scenic there are phases in this work that can use your help behind Riverways. Jim is using several of our members from the the scenes. If you do not fit well into the above, spread the Ozarks at the site of the Scenic Riverways at special func­ news of the task we are undertaking. I believe this will tions throughout the year. He was approached by the Parks ensure the growth of the M-WTCA.

Election Time Is Approaching by George Wanamaker, VP Elections

It is time to think about the Mid West Tool Collector's election What do you do on the job? for 2009. The first step is nomination. You may nominate any­ Directors discuss and vote on issues that affect the Mid West one from your Area, including yourself. Directors are the peo­ Tool Collectors Association at the two national meetings. A term ple who run the Mid West Tool Collectors Association. They is three years long, and you may serve only two successive make the decisions that affect you and everyone else in the terms. Do you have to attend every National meeting? Of course organization. Extend the courtesyM-WTCA.ORG of asking your nominee if he not! Hopefully, you can make it to one of the meetings each year. will accept the position if elected. If you are interested, nomi­ We would like for you to help promote the Mid West Tool nate yourself, and encourage others to nominate you. The two Collectors Association to friends and other collectors. Encourage candidates with the most nominations from each Area will be people interested in tools to join MWI'CA If possible, hold a local on the election ballot. In the case of only one nomination from meeting in your Area and invite fellow collectors and others inter­ an Area, that person will be appointed without an election. ested in tools to participate. That is about all you have to do. Qualifications for Director? We need you to be a candidate or, at least nominate a candidate To be a Director you need to be a member of MWI'CA and be for Director from your Area. The form to nominate is in the willing to help the organization conduct business and grow. back of this magazine. It is a blue sheet. If someone nominates Nobody is too young, nobody is too old. You can not live too you, please accept that nomination! You can not fail in this job! far away; there are members in your area. It only takes a few If you love tools and enjoy your time with MWI'CA members, hours a year to do a good job. you will er\joy helping lead this organization.

6 The Gristmill The Lost Art of Craftsmanship by Nikki Borkovetz

You might begin to believe hand tools will soon disappear Most old hand tools are collected for the uniqueness and as you scroll through today's tool catalogs. With the nostalgic qualities given to them. Most do not have great development of cordless tools, pneumatic tools and monetary value like other antiques, but they are still fun to lasers, it almost causes one to believe that conventional collect. hand tools belong somewhere closer to the Stone Age For some jobs, it is just easier to use hand tools. Also, for than today's workshops. Hand tools are being defined as some people there is a special satisfaction that comes those instruments that rely on the energy of the user for from doing a task with a hand tool. Perhaps it is a connec­ power. These tools include screwdrivers, planers, sand­ tion with a father or grandfather who would have done the ing blocks, hanuners, saws and others. The assumption job that way. Or perhaps it is a reverence for the wood these tools are out of date is simply not accurate. and the project that is shattered by the roar and clatter of Actually before electric power, all woodworking was done power tools. with hand tools. These old hand tools, are now antiques Antique tools are valued by collectors and others because or at least sought as collectibles. In addition to their aes­ of their uniqueness and the connection they give us with thetic value as nostalgia from an earlier time, many of nearly forgotten eras. Antique woodworking tools such as these tools are still excellent to use for their original pur­ hand planers, saws, levels, gouges and many other such pose, which is working with wood. Old hand tools are not tools, cause us to marvel at the skill of ancestral crafts­ only functional but are intriguing collectibles. men. These tools are interesting in the tasks they accom­ An old hand planer is an interesting item for collectors. plished and the technologies employed. The hand planer, which is still made today, is a handy tool There is a special satisfaction that comes from working for shaving off layers of wood. These tools have been with wood. For many, the reward is in the doing, much made from a variety of materials and are nearly inde­ more than in the finished project. For these people, tools structible. Early hand planers were made from a wooden provide a connection with the project and require skills block with the adjustable cutting blade set into the block. and techniques that contribute to making the project Later designs were made from metal. These old tools worthwhile. Often these people find this is best accom­ represent an era of hand craftsmanship that spoke of plished by working with hand tools. quality and durability. The art and skill of craftsmanship is becoming rare just Another interesting and highly collectible antique hand like the antique hand tools we see at our local and nation­ tool, is the handsaw. Old saws come in a wide variety of al area tool meets. One of the most important things I designs and teeth arrangements. They were used for rip­ take away from every tool meet I attend, is hearing a ping wood and for finish work. Perhaps one of the most story or learning something new from someone that has distinguishing characteristics of these old saws was the lived in a time that is much different then the tin1e we are handle. The handles were often decorative and uniquely in now. There is a wealth of knowledge amongst the shaped. Long before the word ergonomic was coined, members of our organization that needs to be shared craftsman understood that they would be using their tools before it is lost forever. for long periods each day and that they must be comfort­ able to hold and to use.

Job OpeningM-WTCA.ORG by Phil Baker

Your Preservation & Education Committee is seeking addi­ years. With only two meetings a year there is not much tional Committee Members-are you interested??? Ring time to get your feet wet. The continuation of this Phil Baker's bell at (941) 485-6981 or [email protected]. Committee is so important and it is tin1e to bring others in while I am still "hot to go". I intend to support the P. & E. Top of the list is a person who will be able to attend semi­ Committee as long as I am able. annual meetings. The Chairman of the P. & E. Committee is seeking a member to take over as Chairman of the Phil Baker, Chairman M-WTCA Preservation & Education Committee. I would like to see two applicants for the job Committee who might work with me over a period of one to two

June 2009 7 15th Annual Peach Meet by Don Rosebrook & Steve Edwards

The Peach meet has been held annually since 1995 at the Lions Club facility in Madison GA. Traditionally, we have had tailgate trading on Thursday morning but this is subject to the whim of the weather. When it is good as it has been, on occasion some members will stay set up outside for most of the day. But bad weather is also traditional and this year was no excep­ tion. The day dawned with Trade table activity. sub-freezing temperatures and it never got comfortable. A few that arrived early to tailgate, set up in everything and his booming voice needed no amplification the front parking lot but the cold wind drove most of us even in the full hall. inside to warm up. The tables arrived early and were set up The 6 displays were excellent but more are always wel­ when I (DDR) arrived. All were allowed to do a partial set­ come. The 1st place award was $50; 2nd place $25; and 3rd up inside with the understanding that it was a substitute for place $15. The first place display by Dan Gaier was a display parking lot trading and there would be nothing left to set up of adjustable wrenches. Second place went to Phil Baker in the afternoon. We moved our goods inside under the for a display of tables and many more joined us as the Henry Disston back day progressed. Once again, there was saws; and, third plenty of fellowship - you know what place went to Mel that means - tool stories, lies, exagger­ Ring for a display of ation, talk of families and of friends marking gauges. who would not be there. Display tables were available for set up. left: First place display of adjustable wrenches The doors opened at 7 AM Friday for set up and trading and the room below: Second place dis­ appeared to have as many tables and play of Henry Disston back saws people as the 2008 meet. That assessment proved to be correct because at the end we counted 156 attendees, 80 tables and many inter­ esting displays. That pretty well filled the hall but there will still be room for a few more tables next year. The meet featured Dan Gaier (ably assisted by his wife Debbie) who gave a power point presentationM-WTCA.ORG about bicycle wrenches. It was obvi­ ous that Dan was knowledgeable and that a lot of fine effort had been expended in preparing this talk. Trading was active all day with most above: Dan & Debbie of the sales tables staying open until late afternoon, but it Gaier and their dis­ seemed that several people opted to pickup and leave at play. that time so - on Saturday the room was a bit less full. The right: Third place meet was well organized and events happened as they were display of marking planned and scheduled. Doug watched and fretted about gauges.

8 The Gristmill Dodging the White Frozen Bullet by Gary Kane

If it had come a day later, I of Victor, Birmingham, Chaplin, Davis and would have been stuck other rare planes. George Cella had his own with a truck half full of rare plane on display. It was a "Baileys kringles and bakery goods. Vertical Post Plane" Wisconsin was hit by a accompanied with snowstorm the Saturday information on it. before our Area B St. Daniel Hess had a Francis, WI meet, which wonderful "Hand was held on Sunday. Although attendance was down around Carved Router" on 180 instead of the 200 who preregistered or walked in, it was display. Daniel had still a great meet. Even with the snowstorm, we had members bought this router attending from Minnesota, Iowa and Indiana. We also signed from his good friend up 8 new M-WTCA members. Wally Anderson who past away last By 8:00 AM the place was full of eager members who were George Celia's Bailey's Plane Display year. It was nice to anxious to sell or buy tools after the long winter layoff. The see that a new mem­ tools were set out on the trade tables and the members were ber to M-WTCA, busy perusing the tables for hidden treasures. My wife was who was attending kept busy trying to keep enough kringles, bakery goods and his first St. Francis coffee flowing for the members. meet, went to the Once again I need to give out a thank you to all the members trouble of setting up who helped me with the meet. A big thank you needs to go out a display. Lloyd to Kathy and Darrell Vogt. Kathy has been helping me at the Jung set up a nice registration desk for the last few years for which I am greatly display of tools with Daniel H ess Carved Router Display appreciative. Her assistance allows me to enjoy the meet and automotive mark­ go on my own tool hunts. Kathy and Darrell are always one of ings. I want to thank all of the members who go to the trou­ the first to arrive at the meet, to help with the unpacking and ble of setting up a display, for it greatly adds to the members setup. They also stick around to the end to help with clean up. education and enjoyment at the meets. Darrell, along with fellow members John Bellon, Ron Jensen For us long time M-WTCA members, the meet was tempered and Rod Minter, also helped with the mailing of the 500 flyers by the loss of our good friend and local M-WTCA member for the meet. Darrell also is the official photographer for the Mary Lou Stover, on February 4, 2009. As most of you know, meet. Even members who arrive early to the meet are always Mary Lou along with her good friend Carol Lomax ran the St. willing to help with the setup. I also had two members Francis meet for years. Mary Lou also was the long time edi­ approach me at the meet who indicated they would like to tor of The Gristmill. Mary Lou was very instrumental in devel­ assist me. I really appreciate everyone's help with the meet. oping the quality publication we all enjoy so The snowstorm did not much today. Even after I took over the St. stop six members from Francis meet from Mary Lou and Sue (Tubman) bringing fine displays to Nelson, Mary Lou was always the first to offer share with the members. her help with the meet. It is only fitting that Mary Carl Bilderback won Lou's nan1e be added to the official title of our first place with "Atkins St. Francis meeting. Starting in February 2010 it Always Ahead". The dis­M-WTCA.ORGwill be called "The Mary Lou Stover and Carol play contained numer­ Lomax Memorial Tool Meet". ous unusual and well Mary Lou would marked Atkin saws. If have thoroughly one tried hard enough, enjoyed our 2009 you could get Carl to talk about his display. Who knew one St. Francis Tool could fill an 8 foot display table with only tools made from Meet and she a file? Scott Cochrane did. Scott won second place with his will be greatly unusual display of "Tools Made from Files". If a member missed. wanted to see some rare and unusual block planes, one only needed to check out Cecil Holmes display. Many of us long Sco /l Cochrane's to own one of those block planes but Cecil had a table full Tools M ade F rom a File D isplay

June 2009 9 Area Meets

Area Q Summer Meeting by Ed Hobbs

The annual M-WfCA Area Q Summer Meeting will be held in or some tool related activity, to set up and share this with those Raleigh, NC on Saturday July 25, 2009 at Ed & Kathy Hobbs' attending. If you need something special for this, please let me Farm. know. Each year this "Annual Rite of Summer" draws a lai·ge number Because of the increasing number of people attending, again of those interested in collecting and using tools, as well as this year pre-registration will be required to ensure we have those interested in early industries from all over the east coast adequate food and facilities. and even from the Midwest. It is an opportunity to buy and sell The farm is located just a few miles south of Raleigh off of 1-40. tools, hear a very interesting progran1, view outstanding tool There is plenty of room for all. We can guarantee there will not displays, participate in the tool auction, trade stories, eat great be any snow or cold weather and the BBQ will melt in your BBQ and relax under the shade of the barns and pecan trees. mouth. While primarily a Saturday event, some early birds come on Notices will be sent to all M-WfCA and EAIA members in NC, Friday afternoon to set up, check things out, socialize and/or to SC & VA in late June. For more information, contact Ed Hobbs park their motor homes or campers. In 2008, about 280 mem­ at (919) 828-2754 ([email protected]), Ray Hoke at bers and guests attended this meeting. (919) 876-8512 ([email protected]) or Robert Oehman at (919) We also encourage people who would like to demonstrate tools 858-8506 ([email protected])

Cosgrove, Iowa Area D by Jim Escher

To the Cosgrove, Iowa patrons, enjoy a great noon meal prepared by the cooks. September 1992 was our first Area D Tool Meet at Cosgrove, Most memorable from all the years are the people that joined Iowa. Now 17 years later I regret to say that we decided that us. You learned so much from them, so many stories! Some you 2008 was our last show. only saw once a year, but it was always a joy to see them again. Through the years many tools came in the doors and back out On the other hand, Ed Chabal, our newest Area D Director has with new owners. Members and guests joined us from many an Area D Meet scheduled for July 18, 2009 in Mt. Pleasant, different states. There were many "What's It" items to try to Iowa. Ed's plan is to have his meet at the Midwest Old Threshers identify, many fooled us! A lot of great displays by the mem­ grounds. It should be a great time. Hope to see everyone there. bers were shared for our enjoyment. We also were able to Thank you for supporting us!

Tool Family Trees by Bob Rog er M-WTCA.ORG I am going to make this one easy by adding two more tools for a total of five. These five tools are related, but can you guess 4 their common thread? Tool #1 is 2 feet long and has a head that is 1 3/8 x 3 1/2 x 6 inches. It was patented in 1874. Tool #2 was patented in 1884 to perform the same function as #1. Tool #3 is only 3 inches long, has a short screw-thread tip, and perforn1S 3 an entirely different function long before tools 1 & 2 are used. And tool #4 is used even earlier in the process and it has a blade that is curved on a 6-inch radius. Tool #5 was patented by McCormick in 1876 and is used long after #4 is used, but it is not used when #s 1, 2, or 3 are used. If you have not figured it out yet, do not stay cooped up - turn to the answer on page 16.

10 The Gristmill The Lincoln Axe Some History and Information Related to Markings and Labels by Tom Lamond©

PRIMARY DISTRIBUTORS ... DUBUQUE, IOWA SCHREIBER, CONCHAR & WESTPHAL CO. 1893-1904 L - - - I (Acquired by A. Tredway Hardware Co.) 1904 _.. \\ \,: I I A. TREDWAY HARDWARE CO. 1853-1907 '-" ,,,,, s·, .. /-~.... \ A. TREDWAY & SONS 1907-1929 * * .,. KRETSCHMER-TREDWAY 1929-1987 .. -- (The dates refer to the years the companies were in business.) - ,, * * ,,,, INTRODUCTION * * I j f * \ I \ What has long been known as the LINCOLN AXE holds a LINCOLN* AXE I / I I reputation by axe collectors as being one of the most j:..;_;:;.~" .,., . .,, ._ .. """'""J'•.·, ; ;.)'.J.L; .ti I fl.1/\1>1 '/\.,;' I I desirable examples to own. In addition to including an I I I 1 I interesting etching, a very desirable quality of such a col­ Tlll::::.D PATRNT■ D \ I * ...... ,...... I_-~- lectible axe is that it be close to or actually in pristine con­ 1•, ""' ,- \ , I! l /.'/ , >I I \11 I\\ 1'' dition. A demanding attribute when one considers these "· l. ,\ \I. l !I. Ill l;t !/II. 1•11\ \. axes were probably discontinued sometime in the 1930s. Considering they were first introduced in the mid 1890s, \ \ they were distributed for less than fifty years. \ 1 Another consideration relates to specifically what mark­ This drawing is a representation of the second etching that was used on LINCOLN AXES sold by Schreiber, 1 ings are on the axe. That may or may not dissuade a col­ Conchar & Westphal. Note the stamping of the manu- 1 lector from acquiring such an axe and it may be a lesser facturer's name above the design. Such additional I consideration in comparison to condition, but when one markings were not used on all Lincoln axes. Also note I realizes that there were numerous of markings for Lincoln the apostrophe used in the abbreviation for Company's \ in the large arched name, indicating the name axes the collector's challenge expands. belonged to the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. \ I THE COMPANIES THAT WERE INITIALLY INVOLVED \ The outline and design segment are meant to depict \ general proportions. The actual size of such an axe The existence of the Lincoln Axe has raised a number of head may have been approximately 4112" x 7 ", interesting questions. It would also be more accurate to ' , or a bit smaller or larger depending on the / say the Lincoln Axe has also resulted in some interesting weight of the head. but sometimes inaccurate conclusions. There are some --- individuals that think that some Lincoln axes were actual­ ly made in Dubuque, Iowa. That has not been documented The SCHREIBER, CONCHAR & WESTPHAL CO. and is believed to be totally incorrect. Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. was established when There are also those that think there was actually a Lincoln two already existing companies combined. One was Axe Mfg. Co. That name was used on some labels but that named The Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. Co. and the other so-called company was actually a misleading name used named the Westphal-Hinds Hardware Co. by a manufacturer to facilitate axe distribution. The Westphal-Hinds Hdw. Co. had been established in In order to better understand the beginnings and evolu­ 1855 when Willian1 Westphal formed a partnership with a M-WTCA.ORGman named Hinds who had started in the hardware busi­ tion of the Lincoln Axe it may be helpful to know a bit about the beginnings of the Schreiber, Conchar & ness in 1853. William Westphal is believed to have had ties Westphal Co. and the Mann Edge Tool Co. to the Novelty Iron Works Co. and the Norwegian Plow Co. which probably stimulated his connections with simi­ The reader should note that the Schreiber, Conchar & lar enterprises. William Westphal died in 1869 but his wife Westphal Co. and the Mann Edge Tool Co. were estab­ and his estate continued to be involved with the Westphal­ lished around the san1e time. All things considered, that Hinds Hdw. Co. for quite some time; at least up until the suggests there may have been advantages for both compa­ establishment of the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. nies to work together at the time. It may also be noted that the principals in both companies were not new to their The Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. Co. had been incorporated respective business enterprises. in 1888. According to their letterhead they engaged in var­ ious forms of foundry work and metal finishing. They

June 2009 11 advertised that they did nickel and bronze plating as well been established in 1893 as a wholesale hardware dealer as Japanning. In 1893 Schreiber & Conchar entered into in Dubuque, Iowa. an agreement with Westphal-Hinds that resulted in the Reports indicate that Robert Jr. was actually the secretary establishment of the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. of the Mann Edge Tool Co. when it was established in The new company was classified as a wholesale hardware 1892-3. It is possible that he held more than one position concern and at that time the Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. at the same time but that remains to be clarified. It was Co. continued to operate under its own name. not uncommon at the time for principals in axe companies Subsequent letters between Schreiber, Conchar & to participate on sales trips but in this case, Robert, Jr. Westphal and the Mann Edge Tool Co. suggest that the may have relocated because of what was described as Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. Co. eventually becan1e a subdi~ health reasons. vision of the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. OTHER AXE BUSINESS DEALINGS The MANN EDGE TOOL CO. Before discussing the variations of Lincoln Axe mark­ The Mann Edge Tool Co. was formed after Joseph Mann, a ings, the reader may find it interesting to learn that the previously well-known axe manufacturer, withdrew from Mann Edge Tool Co. had other dealings with the the American Axe & Tool Co. The A A & T. Co. had been Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. Perhaps those deal­ formed in 1889 and Joseph was one of the individuals ings have contributed to the misunderstandings about involved early in the management of the A A & T. Co. He Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. being axe manufac­ rapidly became dissatisfied and within a few years, he with­ turers themselves. During the years that the Schreiber, drew from what had become known as "The Axe Trust". Conchar & Westphal Co. was operating they were involved in some other business transactions with the By 1893 Joseph, along with a few other businessmen, had Mann Edge Tool Co. One such transaction was in the re-established an axe factory near Lewistown, PA They fonn of nickel-plating of axes. could not use any of the company names that had previ­ ously been used for any of the Mann companies so they Indications are that the Mann Edge Tool Co. was investi­ organized as the Mann Edge Tool Co. The original Lincoln gating the etching of nickel-plated axe heads. The axes, even before those with the etching of Lincoln along Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. Co. did that type of work and with the name of the wholesaler, were made by the Mann the two companies made an agreement to see if the pro­ Edge Tool Co. of Lewistown, PA The earliest versions cessing was a viable activity. were ordered in the mid 1890s, possibly 1894, and it is The Schreiber & Conchar Mfg. Co. was involved in the believed that the orders were initially placed through a establishment of the wholesaling company and later manufacturers agent. That agent was Robert Mann, Jr. became a division of the parent company Schreiber, who maintained offices in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Conchar & Westphal. From the correspondence reviewed Robert Mann, Jr. was a younger brother of Joseph R. it appears that all did not go as smoothly as hoped. That Mann, the founder of the Mann Edge Tool Co. Robert, Jr. analysis is based on copies of communications from had previously been active in axe making but apparently Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal as well as the Schreiber & was excluded when the various Mann axe-making compa­ Conchar Mfg. Co. to the Mann Edge Tool Co. nies, along with some of the Manns themselves, got The final resolution of the matter has yet to be determined involved with the American Axe & Tool Co. but based on the lack of nickel-plated axe heads it appears By the mid 1890s Robert Mann, Jr. maintained an office at that things did not work out as planned. However, the 235 Syndicate Block in Minneapolis.M-WTCA.ORG His letterhead indicat­ relationship does raise a question. Were the tests conduct­ ed he was operating as a Manufacturers Agent. The overall ed with the intention of ultimately manufacturing nickel­ extent of his representation as an agent is unknown but it plated Lincoln Axes? may have been restricted primarily to selling Mann edge EARLY LINCOLN AXE MARKINGS tools. His letterheads also included a cut of an axe head that included the MANN'S SPECIAL AXE label. There is a good possibility that Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. used a paper label on some of their Lincoln Indications are that Robert, Jr. was responsible for a terri­ axes. That possibility is based on correspondence tory that encompassed either all of or parts of Iowa, between Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal and the Mann Nebraska, Minnesota and Wisconsin. It is quite probable Edge Tool Co. dated August 17, 1896, as represented in that Robert, Jr. initially arranged for the sale of axes to the part as follows .. . Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. That company had

12 The Gristmill ''Dear Sirs; that axes bearing the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. We hasten to answer your favor of Aug. 14th, and name were marketed until 1907? That is quite doubtful. you will please get out the three, 6 inch size elec­ The company, legally !mown as A. Tredway & Sons, oper­ trotypes, viz: one each for "Michigan" & "Western ated the concern from 1907 through 1925. They then Crown" Single Bit and "Crown" Double Bit, for merged with the Kretschmer Mfg. Co. to form the our Lincoln axes, to represent the two colors like Kretschmer-Tredway Co. The Kretschmer Mfg. Co. had the Simmons you have kindly sent an illustration been founded in 1907. The company continued in business of, of course using our regular label instead of until 1985 but reportedly significant changes in their oper­ etching, etc. as on the Simmons T. B. axe. " ations occurred around 1939. It is believed that the break­ out of World War II resulted in the scarcity of strategic materials, which resulted in the discontinuance of many Could this be the shape hardware and tool items, including axes. That would have of the early Lincoln Axe brought the era of the true Lincoln Axes to an end. paper labels? MARKINGS AND LABELS USED ON LINCOLN AXES There are six different etchings that are !mown to have Based on the letter, it is believed that the earliest lots of been used in conjunction with what is referred to as the Lincoln axes included a paper label rather than an etching true Lincoln Axe. but obviously etchings were also used. As of this writing no such paper label has been observed. It appears that the Mann Edge Tool Co. enjoyed the posi­ tion of supplying all the axes that the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. sold while they were in business. The fol­ lowing excerpt from another letter from the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. dated May 25, 1896 certainly indi­ cates that was true. After reminding the Mann Edge Tool Co. that they expected ... "... that the ''Lincoln" Axes should be ground bright on the edge or just like the Simmons Hdw. Co. has their Blued and hand-hammeredAxesfinished.... "

That same letter went on to include ... There were four similar Lincoln Axe etchings that included gold cowred highlights. The Mann Edge Tool Co. made the first two as depicted above. "We should be pleased to find that you are the only There is no question about the first two etched designs manufacturer who will have a lawful right to make being manufactured by the Mann Edge Tool Co. That has and sell such as our Lincoln Axes, and we shall cer­ been validated by reviewing purchase orders and letters tainly report to you if we should find any of our of correspondence as well as copies of design transfers competitors offering similar Axes to the trade." used in connection with the etching process. This may have been the case until the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. was acquired by A. Tredway in 1904. After that the identity of the actualM-WTCA.ORG supplier becomes a bit cloudy. It relies more on analysis of available data as well as clues. Before going into that, a question concerning the use of the company names A. Tredway Hardware Co. and A. Tredway & Sons should be addressed. Shortly after A. Tredway Hdw. Co. acquired the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. there may have been an operating nan1e change to A. Tredway & Sons. The legal nan1e change may not have occurred until 1907. This statement is based on the observation that there are no Lincoln Axes !mown that were marked A. Tredway Hdw. Co., yet there are many These two designs, the third and forth etchings, are believed lo have examples with the name A. Tredway & Sons. Could it be been made by the Kelly Axe Mfg. Co.

June 2009 13 It is believed the third and fourth etched Lincoln Axes were made by another company. The fact that the refer­ ence to the Mann patent was eliminated from the Tredway & Sons axe heads is one indicator of the change. The dif­ ference in Lincoln's head is another. A CHANGE IN MANUFACTURERS The third & fourth designs are believed to have been manu­ factured by the Kelly Axe Mfg. Co. of Charleston, W. VA The change probably occurred around 1905 or 1906. The Kelly Mfg. Co. was at the time a major manufacturer who made etched axes under some of their own brands as well as under brands directly associated with wholesale distributors. In addition to what can be called the true Lincoln Axes, hatchets have been observed with Lincoln's head within a A Lincoln Axe head f inished in red Japanning with gold in-Jill has been reported. It may have been a special order as only one is reported circle and next to the name LINCOLN AXE. The hatchet extant, but which mark is on it? Does it include the patent notation? appears to be one of the designs made by the Kelly Axe Mfg. What company name is on it? Co of Charleston, W. VA Eventually a label was observed that includes a depiction of Lincoln's head, the words "ABE After the American Fork & Hoe Co. started manufacturing LINCOLN AXE CO." and a location of Charleston, W. VA the Lincoln Axe, the new etching became considerably simpler. Lincoln's head was no longer facing right but was These last two references are not considered to be true a full left profile. The same design was also used on a Lincoln Axes as compared to the axes with the larger paper label. The distributor's name continued to be etchings. Most likely the axes and hatchets were sold Kretschmer-Tredway Co. as depicted in the representation through wholesalers as a means of offering more variety. of the etching and the facsimile of the paper label, both of Referring back to the third and fourth true Lincoln Axe, which have been observed on actual axe heads. the time frame within which they were made can be com­ What is believed to have been the last etching used on true pared to the years that the Tredways sold Lincoln Axes, Lincoln Axes appears to be one of the scarcest designs to 1904 until 1927, and when Kretschmer-Tredway sold find. It may be that it was adopted in the late 1930s but soon Lincoln Axes, 1927 until approximately 1940. fell victim to the major cutbacks of manufactured goods. There was another change in manufacturer during that Axes were made of steel and steel was a strategic war mate­ time because the American Fork & Hoe Co. acquired the rial. It is ironic that while many of the tools of the day were Kelly Axe Mfg. Co. in 1931. That led to a change in the being discontinued, as manufactured goods similar arti­ etching design applied to Lincoln Axes but the exact date facts of yesteryear were being gathered together for recy­ is unknown. cling so the material could be reused. Compounding the sit- When the American Fork & Hoe Co. took over the Kelly Mfg. Co. manufactory in Charleston, W. VA they com­ menced operations using the nan1e Kelly Axe & Tool # f;,ft-7~ * * Works. In some cases the name was used together with ~ * 0~-i~ * the nan1e of the American Fork & Hoe Co. In other cases it was shortened to just KellyM-WTCA.ORG Works. Gradually the nan1e ~ tA l I• t was changed until almost everything they identified as u !l z their own included the wording TRUE TEMPER. Those # f!!~ ~ t ~ products that they manufactured for wholesale distribu­ LJJ UNCOLNc, UJ LINCOLN () tors often included only the name of the wholesaler, such 0: AXE 0 et: AXE Q ~ . as Kretschmer-Tredway. ~. * The Kelly Axe & Tool Works did make some axes with etch­ DUBUQUE, IOWA. * * * ings and example of which is the BLACK RAVEN. That was * DUBUQUE. IOWA. almost a direct carryover from when the Kelly Axe Mfg. Co. Lincoln Axes with a simplified design were manufactured with etchings made the Black Raven, and reinforces the fact that they and identified with similar labels. The dates are unresolved but believed continued to manufacture axes with etched designs. to have been in the 1930s. This was the fifth etching known design used.

14 The Gristmill uation was the decline in available fuel oil so heating units the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. and their succes­ were converted to be able to burn coal and/or wood. The sors, A. Tredway & Sons and then Kretschmer-Tredway. demand for axes increased but the supply diminished. Another interesting observation is the existence of some axes with an etching quite similar to the Lincoln face includ­ ed on the fourth true Lincoln Axe. It was used by itself on oLD ABE'S one face of the axe while on the reverse face the name KELLY WORKS appeared. Such axes may have been distrib­ uted in a similar fashion, without a specific wholesaler's name, to those previously made by the Kelly Axe Mfg. Co.

KELLY WORKS Facsimile of a paper label used on some axes made by the Mann Edge Tool Co. These labels were printed in shades of blue.

Representation of a design that was etched (IDLINCOLN AXE into one face of some axes while the wording Marking observed on some hatchets made by the was stamped into the Kelly Axe Mfg. Co. opposite face of the same axes. Another chopping tool included an etching of Lincoln's head in addition to some elaborate line work, a small eagle and the initials F 0. E. The reverse side of the axe head includes an etching of a building. The example in question is believed to have been made in Beavers Falls, PA. at the time that The Facsimile of a paper label that American Axe & Tool Co. operated a manufactory there, but was used on some axes made by the face design raises questions concerning the maker. The the Kelly Axe Works, of face is very similar to that which appeared on the first two Clwrteston, W VA. That name etched versions of the Lincoln Axe. That suggests that the was used by the American Fork & Hoe Company to designate axe head may have been made by the Mann Edge Tool Co. their axe and edge tool division. It is further believed that the initials stand for Fraternal DUBUQUE,IOWA. Order of the Eagle, but that is unconfirmed. Such an elabo­ rately decorated axe is not considered a true Lincoln Axe.

Representation of the sixth etching that was used on Lincoln Axes. Indications are that this design is quite e tB, .. scarce and may have been the last etching design used .... --◄--l_.• ...... --, before the Lincoln Axes were discontinued. MISLEADING LABELSM-WTCA.ORG AND MARKINGS Another Lincoln related chopping tool identifier was a paper label that included the brand OLD ABE'S RAIL­ SPLITTER. Axes bearing the Old Abe's Railsplitter label were sold through hardware stores in the early 1900s and are not considered Lincoln axes. They are mentioned here as a point of clarification. They were made by the Mann Edge Tool Co. of Lewistown, PA. As a point of clarification, when collectors refer to true Lincoln Axes they are referring to those Lincoln Axes that Engraving reported lo have been used on some axes made in were associated with the original wholesale distributors; Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.

June 2009 15 CLOSING tions should be accompanied by verifiable sources or copies of same. This article was first published on www.Yesteryearstools.com. It has been amended for the purposes of providing it to The POINT OF CLARIFICATION: Gristmill and is done so with the permission of the author. As a point of clarification, when collectors refer to true Without question there is some degree of conjecture Lincoln Axes, they are referring to those Lincoln Axes that included in this article. It is partially based on information were associated with the original wholesale distributors; included in correspondence reviewed as part of the the Schreiber, Conchar & Westphal Co. and their succes­ remaining Mann Edge Tool Co. papers. Certain inferences sors, A. Tredway & Sons and then Kretschmer-Tredway. have also been drawn from or influenced by observations NOTE: This article has been slightly amended from the original as it of artifacts, pictures of artifacts and correspondence with appears on www.Yesteryearstools.com. It is used with the knowledgeable historians and individuals. author's/illustrator's permission. Articles related to a number of the other concerns mentioned in this article are available for viewing on the Comments, feedback and additional input are always same web site. welcome. Additional information or suggested correc-

Answers Tool Family Trees by Bob Roger

Answer: Barrel tools. These tools are all involved with either cer has now removed the head. But how does he 'loosen' the making or using wooden barrels. sticky contents to get them out? He uses a fruit lifter (fruit loosener, sugar devil) to 'screw' into the center and pull out a Tool #1 (patent #155,387) is a bung starter and, although it can small core and loosen the contents. I have located 11 patents be used to drive a bung into the barrel, it is usually used to ease issued between 1873 and 1899 but only one of those reappears the bung out - to 'start' the bung moving up and out. This is on a somewhat frequent basis. More information on fruit lifters done by sharply striking the barrel (not the bung) alternately on may be found at http://www.bullworks.net/daily/20070902.htm. each side of the bung. The thin semi-flexible handle allows the user to 'whip' the head against the barrel without a lot of effort. Tool #2 is Cook's patent bung extractor (patent #304,800). The tip is a steep-pitch right-hand thread while the shaft has a lower-pitch left-hand thread (threaded into the tripod). Beginning with the tool over the bung and the tip positioned below the tripod legs, the entire tool is turned clockwise to screw the tip into the bung. As the tripod legs hit the barrel and stop the rotation of the tripod, continued turning of the handle 4 causes the left-hand threads to begin lifting the shaft and bung. Tool #3 is a cooper's head vise. The final process of closing a 'wet' barrel ( one used for liquids) is to install the head (the end of the barrel). This is placedM-WTCA.ORG inside the barrel and then pulled up into the croze groove, locking it in place. The head vise is screwed into the head, usually at a point where the head will 3 eventually be tapped for a spigot, and the head is then pulled or levered into position using the loop on the vise and an iron bar, if needed. Tool #4 is a coopers stave froe and is used to split oak to form curved staves for making the barrels. Tool #5 is a grocer's tool and is used to extract dried fruit, sugar, etc. from shipping barrels. The fruit, etc. was packed into the barrel and the head pressed on, the barrel shipped, and the gro-

16 The Gristmill James Killam the Plane Maker by Edward C. Swift

Introduction ,:-· The Killam story starts around 1635 in Dennington, Suffolk, England. In 1637 when Austin Kilham, his Wife, Alice and their children sailed from the Port of Yarmouth, England, landing in Salem, Massachusetts and, then, mov­ ing to establish a permanent home in Wenham, Massachusetts. The Killam family migrated to America seeking land and opportunities. After settling into Wenham, Austin's three sons moved away from Wenham seek­ ing their own opportunities. We will follow the life of John, his wife, Hannah Pickford, and their children in Preston, Connecticut for four genera­ tions. Late in the eighteenth century the Killam family started making wooden planes but, in 1816, plans for moving permanently to Glastonbury, Fig. 1 New London County in 1836. Prom J. W Barber's Connecticut Connecticut happened soon after New Historical Collections. London County's economy was devas­ tated during the Revolutionary War by Bridenbaugh's, "The Colonial Craftsman" concluded that the British. 30% of property owners were listed as craftsmen. In South Glastonbury, the James John Killam's first son Samuel, was born August 1, 1662 Killam fan1ily supported the shipbuild­ and later, married Elizabeth Rose in Windham, ing industry with their wooden planes Connecticut November 11, 1714. On March 10, 1719 and, later, they diversified the family Thomas Rose, conveyed part of a tract of land he had pur­ business by adding the Glastonbury­ chased from Oenecho ye Mohegan Sachem in Preston to Rocky Hill ferry operation and Feldspar mining. Samuel and Rose. According to Land Record, Preston, Life in Preston Connecticut, Volume 8, Page 234, November 14, 1754, Samuel Killam and Elizabeth Rose Killam his wife "for Preston located near the Than1es River was The Fifth love, we bear to our well beloved grandson Samuel Killan1 Society 'of Norwich Town, New London County as shown of Preston--- all that tract of land which was given to us by in the map of New London County, Figure 1. The upper our Hond Father Thomas Rose, late of Preston, deceased, Thames River flowed to Norwich Town where it joined 2 with all the buildings, etc." other rivers before arriving at the Seaport, New London. New London was important to Preston's economy as it Samuel Killam's Will, dated November 14, 1754 collabo­ was homeport for privateers that raided English Shipping rates the land records, and, New London, servedM-WTCA.ORG as a shipping center for moving "To wife Elizabeth Killam, one third of the move­ products through out the Colonies. ables and use of all the real estate till grandson Considering the magnitude of New London County Samuel Killam shall arrive to the age of 21 years wealth, it is easy to see why John Killan1 left Wenham, and the use of one half of the real estate during her Massachusetts and moved to Preston located in New lifetime. London County, Connecticut. "New London County To son Samuel Killan1, my wearing apparel, my gun, Furniture", in the period, 1640 - 1840 published by the one half of my farming and carpentering tools, to Lyman Allyn Museum lists 50 cabinetmakers in New be delivered to hin1 when my grandson Sanmel London, 40 in Norwich and 12 in Preston. 177 4 Census sta­ Killan1 is 21, which with what I have already given, tistics illustrate the magnitude of cabinet making when is his portion. one considers that New London had 5888 residents. Carl

June 2009 17 To beloved grandson Samuel Killam, my freehold should also be noted that British military forces did not estate on which I now dwell it being a tract of land invade the Hartford area, so the city was able to grow eco­ given to me and my wife Elizabeth by our honored nomically during this historical period. The shipbuilding father Mr. Thomas Rose late of Preston, deceased, industry in Glastonbury grew rapidly through the with the buildings, to enter upon possession of one Revolutionary War and peaked during the War of 1812. half when he is 21 years of age, and the other half With the rise in demand for coastal ships, came an oppor­ at his grandmother's decease, and one half of the tunity for financial gain in shipbuilding while operating a farming and carpentering tools when 21. ---" farm on the side was a good reason for the Killam family to make the move from Preston to Glastonbury. Probate Records, Norwich, Connecticut; 2-131 According to Glastonbury Town Records, Volun1e #17, It is interesting to note that Lyman killam's father, Samuel, Page 196, Jan1es Killam purchased 1 3/4 acres ofland with was recorded in Preston Town Records, Conn. vol. l, Page buildings from Luther Goodrich on April 24, 1816 for 120, "Samuel Kill um Junr. and Lucy Parke both of Preston $1050.00. The Property was located on the South side of were married July 9, 1741." demonstrating the use of the Rocky Hill ferry Highway. The James Killam house, "Samuel Killum" and Probate records documenting the built circa 1760, is shown in Figure 2. passing of Carpentry tools from generation to generation in the Killam family. The Lyman Killam family lived and worked his father's farm but had no title to the farm property until Samuel Lyman's father died on August 1, 1802. Lyman married Lucinda Geer June 27, 1774 in Groton, Connecticut and had four children. James Killam, the plane maker, was born October 26, 1798 in Preston and on April 4, 1821, he married Caroline Holden in Preston, Connecticut. In addi­ tion, Lyman and Lucinda had a son, Samuel and daughters, Eunice and Thankful. While the Killams farmed, they also made planes as a way to economically benefit from work­ ing in the New London furniture market. It is known that Preston's Gross Product peaked and declined after the Revolutionary War. New London's econ­ omy may have been severely damaged when the British attacked New London in the sun1mer of 1781, after one of Fig. 2, The J. Killam house as it appeared in 1906. New London stationed Privateers, Minerva, seized the British ship Hannah. It was carrying a rich cargo including Soon after J. Killam bought his house, it is recorded in personal supplies for the British officers stationed in New family records, that Lyman, James , their wives and James York City. Those British officers wanted revenge. brother, Samuel Killam sailed from Preston, New London At sunrise on September 6, 1781, the British, under the County, with all their worldly belongings to start a new life Leadership of Benedict Arnold, a native of nearby in Glastonbury. Figure 3, is a map of South Glastonbury Norwich, attacked New London with 800 men. Not only that shows the location of the Killam families in relation were large stockpiles of goods and Naval stores destroyed to the Connecticut River, the dock where ships were being but, 143 buildings were burned,M-WTCA.ORG a number of ships and all built and where the Oldest operating Ferry in America is of the wharfs. Rebuilding New London as an economic cen­ still operating today. ter must have taken a number of years and, in the mean­ During the period, 1826 - 1835 James Killam made 9 pur­ time, Preston cabinetmakers and carpenters and others in chases of land including buildings totaling 42 acres con­ adjoining towns on the Thames River felt the economic tiguous to his home. slowdown and were required to rely on their farms to make a living or move elsewhere for business opportunities. His Carpentry Shop was located across Ferry Lane, just east of his house and adjacent to Lyman Killam's home. Between 1784 and 1884 Glastonbury shipyards built 270 His shop was completely destroyed during the officially government enrolled coastal vessels. The secret Connecticut river flood in 1936. of Glastonbury's success was possible due to the availabil­ ity of Oak and Pine, as well as, abundant water power. It

18 The Gristmill It is a well known fact that trade mark imprints are key to any analysis involving plane maker history and it is certainly true with Killam Planes. Therefore, it is lW-t'!I\Y important to establish a Killam trademark baseline HILT. consistent with other wooden plane makers working I from 1775 to 1875. I J.l

u B

0 L ~ S :l',1£ 1\1 BU/l. >­ WA R R.A N X £ 1) Fig. 3, Glastenbury, District 10, shows the community where the C Killams lived, Circa: 1860.

Did the Killam family make planes in Preston, Connecticut before they moved to Glastonbury. There are two important Bl clues to this question. First, embossed imprints of the type used by the Killams, were being used by other plane makers as early as 1740. This date was established from the vast B2 data presented by "A Guide to Makers of American Wooden Planes", 4th Edition, By Emil & Martyl Pollak. by counting documented plane makers using embossed imprint designs. These five Killam trademark imprints documented by Of the 779 embossed imprints identified, 27% were New Pollak's work serve as that baseline for Killam plane mak­ London County plane makers. Second, Samuel Killam's Will ing history. It is clear that the Killam's lived in Preston , but dated, November 14, 1754, specifies that carpentry tools to moved to Glastonbury soon after the British burned out New London ruining its economy and elinunating a market be passed on "to his Son, Samuel Killam and then passed on for New London county cabinetmakers and toolmakers. to his grandson, Samuel Killam at age 21 years. Figure 4, Embossed Imprint History, provides a 100 year Type A embossed imprint use peaked during the 1st quar­ time-line comparison of embossed trademarks, matching ter of 18th century and then dropped to a low level by those of James Killam and other 19th century plane mak­ beginning of the Industrial Revolution in 1840. ers, demonstrated that Type A trademarks were clearly Killam plane research was made possible by 26 plane most common (79%), followed by Type Bl(l5%), and then, Collectors, associated with antique tool clubs. They Type C (3.5%), Type B2(2%) and typeB at 1.3%. responded to requests with plane Census data that collec­ tively established a correlation between plane trade­ marks and specific plane category and type for 212 Jan1es M-WTCA.ORGKillan1 planes. I 400 m Defined plane Category and Type used herein is consis­ p r 300 tent with common terminology researched and organized in John M. Whelan's book, "The Wooden Plane, Its ■ Al History, Fann, and Function" to detem1ine appropriate n ■ s2 t 200 Category and Type designations. Whelan's description O s, standards were utilized to assure a clear correlation C lie o 100 between trademarks, time periods and plane u ■ s Categoryfl'ype. It is important for the plane descriptive n data to be correlated with individual trademarks. As t 0 1775-18001801-18251826-18501851-1875 >1875 shown in Figure: 5,. Historic Period Fig. 4

June 2009 19 James Killam Plane Census Henry Killam's recollections of early family history Figure 5 obtained from his Great Grandfather, James Boynton Killam, noted the S.Killum trademark (i. JJointer 1 1 sistent with 18th century imprints while the planes carry­ E. Roughing 2 1 ing the imprint were 9 1/2" beech , fitted with a J. Killam 2. Joint Cutting Planes wedge and an early 19th century plane body. These S. A. Rabbet, Dado 4 1 4 3 2 Killum planes also carried a J. C. Duryea, Brooklyn, N.Y., B. Filester 1 1 1 3 Hardware store mark under the maker mark. The fact that C. Sash 2 1 1 Lyman Killam died on 1831 in New Jersey while travelling, D. Tongue & Groove 14 4 5 2 suggests that he was marketting Killam planes in New 3. Molding Planes York city. A. Crown 4 B. complex 12 2 2 3 1 The James Killam plane census documented Killam planes C. Simple 3 2 1 with dual maker trademarks. The plane maker trademarks, D. Hollow& Round 12 11 63 S. Hill and E. Rose, were separately located under a E. Beading 12 1 11 1 James Killam, type A imprint. S. Hill and E. Rose fanulies 4. Plow Planes lived in New London County and were connected by mar­ riage to the Killam Family. Both E. Rose and S. Hill are doc­ A. Unhandled 3 1 B. Handled 1 umented plane makers so it may be concluded that each 5. Curved Planes made component plane parts for James Killam working as A. Gutter subcontractors. B. Nosing These imprints were disclosed C. Log Pipe by the James Killam Plane cen­ D. Spars sus survey. Speculation suggests E. Table Joint 1 these imprints to be of the same 6. Reworked or Special 2 1 1 period as the B imprint except the "Glastenbury" imprint has TOTAL 74 5 31 94 0 8 not been utilized due to space limitations on the plane toe. One imprint was used on a 3/8" Dado and the other imprint was applied to a sash plane. These The Jan1es Killam plane collection census survey bottom two imprint variations imply that these in1prints were line Totals shows a trademark ranking with B2 and A on placed on the plane toe with two separate embossing top followed by Bl. The results also point out a reduced tools and when there was sufficient plane toe area, the molding plane market forM-WTCA.ORG planes with a B2 trademark. "Glastenbury" imprint was included to form the B imprint. Plane making concentrated on on hollow and round and The Masi Treaty Shield of 1825 utilized by the B mark was beading planes embossed with the B2 trademark. Under derived from the United State's wax stamp design, dated, the earlier A trademark, the tongue & groove plane mar­ 1825. The Masi Treaty-Seal was the U.S. official Treaty ket was strong to match construction techniques of that wax seal until 1871. period. Plane making using the Bl trademark was tied to hollow & round and tongue & groove plane thus indicat­ The historic period, 1800 - 1825, was the peak for family ing a transitional period between the A and B2 trade­ operated shops. The Industrial Revolution, beginning in marks. The plane survey lists 8 Other Marks that were 1840, marked a period when family plane making shops documented by the Killam plane survey. Those embossed were being displaced by plane manufacturing companies, marks are discussed in the following paragraphs. such as, Ohio Tool Co., D. R. Barton and W. H. Taber.

20 The Gristmill James Killam and fan1ily continued making fewer planes Bibliography in their shop, while at the same time, they diversified their 1. A guide to the Makers of American Wooden Planes, 4th business. Glastonbury Tax Records show that J. Killam's Edition, By E&M Pollak, Revised by Thomas L. Elliott grand list continued to increase with the help of his two sons, James L. Killam and John W. Killam. They expanded 2. Glastonbury: From Settlement to Suburb By Marjorie their business beyond plane making to include real estate, G. McNulty Feldspar mining, Glastonbury/RockHill ferry operation 3. The Glastonbury Express, A Photographic History By and shop carpentry work. Daniel T Heddon According to 1830 Federal Census, Samuel Killam 4. Article 4, Fact Sheet: The Great Seal of the United (Killum) was still in Glastonbury, but later, the 1850 States, US Governn1ent Federal Census had him living in Shelby County, Illinois. 5. Meet Our Craftsmen, a Presentation of 18th Century Jan1es Killan1 became involved in other businesses in Preston Cabinetmakers, Compiled and Edited by addition to molding plane manufacturing. For example, Diane A. Norman. August 16, 1866 records disclose a $1000 Bond to the Towns of Glastonbury and Rocky Hill, obligating Jan1es L. 6. The Wooden Plane, Its History, Form And Function, By Killam, his son, to construct and operate a steam powered John M. Whelan ferry for a period of ten years. The contract also included 7. Killam Genealogy, By Sidney Perley building and maintaining landings on both sides of the Connecticut River. Figure 6, shows the ferry boat, "Rocky 8. Genealogy notes: Preston Killan1s, Preston Library. Hill" operating in the Connecticut River. In 1876, the side wheeler, "Rocky Hill" operated between Glastonbury and Rocky Hill on the West side of the river. Acknowledgments As a tool collector and deeply involved in the Glastonbury Historical Society, I noted in available records and books, that there was very limited written history about James Killam, the plane maker. There were many people involved in providing information about Jan1es Killan1 and his family. Talks with Henry Killan1, now living in South Glastonbury, provided incite about James Killam's Shop and family prop­ erties. Then there was the Megson Family who provided a Killam family genealogy that focus research needed to con­ nect people involved in Killam plane making. Collector's of Killan1 planes were made aware of the Jan1es Killam research project via publications produced by EAIA, Early American Industries Association, ATTIC, Antique Tools & Trades in Connecticut and The Society for the Preservation and Study of American Wooden Planes in a way permitting collectors to reach the author to obtain the census forms to record their Killam planes. Fig. 6, Ferry boat "Rocky Hill" M-WTCA.ORGPlane census data was contributed by tool collectors locat­ ed all over An1erica by providing detail descriptions of 212 James Killam passed away on May 24, 1878. Except for the Killam family planes. The dedicated tool collectors were loss of his shop during the 1936 Flood, much of his life George Armstead family, Bruce Bradley, Rennie Carroll, work is still to be seen today in South Glastonbury. William L. Curtis, Andy A. D'Elia, Dick Dickerson, Thomas Will and Probate records for Jan1es Killan1's estate of 1878 Elliott, Eric Gannicott, Bruce Hassan, Peter Hathaway, plus discussions with living Killam fanilly members dis­ Historical Society of Glastonbury, Craig Jensen, Frank D. close his farm real estate holdings, feld spar mining and Johnson, Daniel Komgiebel, David Lemieur, Manchester his shop including a wood turning lathe used to tum Historical Society, Peter & Trish Manfredi, William L. wagon wheel spokes. Martin, Don Nesslage, Carl Plassman, Pierre Rubbens, Sam Strauss Jr.,Charles Watson and John M. Whelan.

June 2009 21 You Can't Hear it Coming if it Doesn't Make A Sound ... by James Goodson

The story of the 'Coes' is An hour west of Houston puts you in the midst of some his­ one of those stories that toric parts of very early pioneer Texas. The tiny locations of happened to unfold as San Felipe and Cat Springs though barely noticeable as you though it were pre destined. pass by, were landmarks in the early days of the German It was the incredibly unlike­ immigration beginning in the early 1830s and continuing on ly circumstance of finding until the end of the Civil War period and beyond. Who that special tool you really would have known these nearly abandoned locations could wished for, and finding it the have been so instrumental in the progression of the wagon very next day ...... the very first thing seen on the very masters and immigrant settlers so long ago? Continuing on, first table the very first thing in the morning! I can begin to sense this influence in the surrounding areas and know that the implements and On a beautiful early Fall day a num­ 'treasures' these pioneers left behind ber of years back, I was headed for are some of the same pieces that come the extensive Warrenton Texas down from attics and out from sheds antique fair about a hundred miles to the markets, held in the lots and west of Houston. This show is fields in and around the Warrenton / always just far enough away to Round Top antique fair just ahead. make it a pleasant day trip into low rolling hills and country byways. On My first stop before Round Top (four this morning, a heavy dew hanging miles North of Warrenton) was a pas­ down low and shrouded by low ture just ahead and on my left. banks of early morning fog accented Though I usually found little among the fragrance of freshly cut hay­ the scattered RVs, tents and awnings fields, low lying ponds and cattle set up here, I still enjoyed stopping as tanks. My heavy cruising motorcy­ it was a bit early for The Warrenton cle kindly allowed for experiencing fair and these people were at least up this quite up front and personally. and having coffee. I steered into the muddy and deeply rutted dirt The night preceding this particular approach covered with loose hay and tool excursion, found me digging parked as close to the gate as possi­ through old tool catalogs until the ble. I removed my helmet and outer very early morning hours, in an gear then headed to the first table set effort to induce enough drowsiness to help promote some up across the drive. A few steps on, I recognized a famil­ sleep. I recall looking through an early republication of a iar shape underneath the first table and upon closer particular hardware dealer catalog ca.1860s / 1870s and at inspection was absolutely dumbfounded to see a ca.1860s some very early bench top models of drill presses pro­ Coes bench model drill press propped up against the table duced by the 'Coes' Manufacturing Co.(the infan1ous legs and leaning against its huge back wheel. It literally wrench manufacturer). The examples shown, dated some­ took my breath away as the odds of this actually happen­ where near the 1860s and had huge 'back' wheels that just ing certainly must defy the very laws of physics, nature and seemed so impressive to me. I had always loved the drill winning the mega lottery! press and probably owned some twenty five small to large drill presses at the tinle, most all were from the 20th c. The press was for sale by a dealer for a friend. I looked "Why is it you never find oneM-WTCA.ORG of these somewhere"? This over the piece and found it in very good condition except­ was my closing thought before turning in, the engraved ing a 4" length of casting broken off of a support arm. It catalog images committed to memory for pondering dur­ had been repaired roughly many years earlier but was ing the short night remaining. working and obviously had been used in this condition for many years. It would be a very impressive piece mounted Wrestling a 700 pound motorcycle out of your garage and on a workbench. Greater good fortune had this dealer liv­ out to the street between the parked cars in the pre dawn ing just South of Houston in the Clear Lake area and he hours, is a surefire way to get your morning heart rate up readily agreed that I could pick the press up later when I to speed. This time slot allowed for exiting the big city had my truck with me. I paid the man. A quick stretch before the morning traffic confusion and added the advan­ around the market area and I continued on my way but tage of freely experiencing an incredibly beautiful morn­ the remainder of the day was clouded by the thrill of ing and start to what would turn out to be a most unex­ improbability that quietly unfolded just for me on that pected experience. exceptional and most inspiring morning.

22 The Gristmill No Question About It, These Collecting Brothers Are Twins by Henry and Herbert Caudle

Henry and Herbert Caudle of Virgilina, VA along with six other members of the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association were invited to the home of George and Martha Washington on July 4-5, 2008 in Mt. Vernon, VA They were asked to come and help identify and catalog tools donated to Mt. Vernon by various donors. In addition, they helped identi­ fy period correct tools that would have been used at the home during George Washington's time. On the first night of their stay at Mt. Vernon, Henry and Herbert learned that they were identical twins. Henry received a phone call from his wife Llnda, telling him he had received a letter from Henry left and Herbert Caudle at the the Virginia Commonwealth 2004 St. Louis, Mo. M-WTCA national University in Richmond/VCU, meeting with the awards they won. VA confirnting their twin sta­ tus. Although their Mother bought it. Herbert later decided he and Father had always told would go back and purchase the them they were identical, the tool he had seen. He went back twin surveys Henry and and asked the dealer if he still had Herbert had been participat­ the tool. The dealer looked at him ing in at VCU for approxi­ weird and said "I just sold it to you mately 20 years, had now a little while ago". given them definite proof of Henry Caudle left with his granddaughter Kylie McKenna Grant and Herbert. They are trying to get 3 year old Kylie When they went into the military their identical twin status. interested in antique tool collecting. they were stationed at Fort Henry and Herbert have been collecting antique tools Gordon, GA They were stationed in the same company, since 1976. Henry has been a member of M-WTCA for 27 but in separate platoons. Herbert's platoon had been years. Henry has a newspaper clipping of an auction through the line to be issued their foot lockers. When announcement from their local county newspaper dated Henry and his platoon later came through the line to be May 22, 1976. It is framed and hanging in their tool room. issued a foot locker, the supply Sergeant said "Boy, why This auction announcement is what got him hooked on do you want another foot locker?" Henry told hin1, "Sir, buying antique tools. He still has and remembers well, the you have not issued me one." The Sergeant said "I know two nice tools he bought that day at the farm auction. I issued you one." Just a few minutes later he asked, "Do you have a brother?" Henry replied, "Yes sir, I do and he When Henry and Herbert go to outdoor antique shows, looks just like me and he is my twin." Henry will start on one side of the field and Herbert on the other side. When they meet they will talk about what they Henry and Herbert say it is a lot of fun being twins. They have seen or bought. One show, Herbert had seen a tool have a lot of stories to tell about all the things that has he liked but did not buyM-WTCA.ORG it. Henry had later come along and happened to them over the years. Note from the Editor M-WTCA Silent Salesman by Bill Kolm by John Walkowiak

I wanted to thank everyone who has sent in articles to The Do you sell in a shop, do shows or demonstrations? We Gristmill. We have had the pleasure of running some of have available a Silent Salesman for you to display at the most interesting articles in the past issues with this these or any other venues. They are lightweight and stur­ issue being another record with 56 pages. Please keep these dy self-standing sign holders. They hold a small poster and fantastic articles coming in. We even attracted new mem­ a pocket that holds the tri-fold membership brochures bers after they had read a free copy of The Gristmill, and and are available in two sizes. It is an effortless way for that is due to your great articles. you to promote membership in M-WTCA You can contact me at [email protected] Thanks again, Bill.

June 2009 23 Collection Spotlight by Dave Heckel

Gale Garrett has been a member of M-WTCA Gale purchased a tool chest in an antique store in Bucks since 1997. He began seriously collecting County, Pennsylvania that was going out of business. The chest even had some tools in it. The exterior of the chest is antique tools in 1996 following the death of chestnut and the interior is crafted of American black wal­ his wife Diane. To deal with the grief and loss, he nut. By this time, Gale had an1assed a collection of about began going to antique stores and flea markets and started 2,000 tools. Gale is the innkeeper of the historic Chesnut buying any and all old tools that he found. It was very ther­ Cottage, which is now a B&B in South Carolina. During the apeutic for him as he really delved into the world of antique tools. He first desired to fill three antique tools chests. These chests would be the "Golden Chest" full of shiny brass tools; the "Six Board Chest" full of timber fram­ ing tools; and the "English Chest" full of English manufac­ tured tools. The idea sprang from reading an article on the Bertjarnin Seaton tool chest. This chest held what a typical craftsman would place inside to be used in his daily work

''You have to take M-WTCA.ORGthe tools out to see them, and you have to actually feel and touch them. ,,

24 The Gristmill Civil War, Mary Chesnut kept a record of the daily events of the South in a diary that is well known today. Space became a premium and Gale had to reduce and refine his tool collection. So the decision was made to reduce the collection to one tool chest, the "English Chest." Now his tool collection is housed in a single tool chest. The chest holds molding planes which all are made by Moseley; a panel plow with ivory rules in the arms, also by Moseley; a coffin shaped Moseley smoothing plane with an adjustable mouth; and saws, braces, chisels and other English craftsman made and manufactured English tools. The tool chest allows someone to easily look at the tools. "You have to take the tools out to see them, and you have to actually feel and touch them," said Gale. Thus, pleasure is obtained from holding the tools, just like the craftsman who owned and used them. Gale continually now upgrades the quality of the tools in the chest, and therefore keeps up his collecting interest. He also collects Stanley # 46 plow & dado planes (he still needs the Type 1), and Ohio Tool Company metallic planes of all types. On the reduction of a tool collection to one tool chest, Gale related, "It makes you consider more carefully what actu­ ally goes into the collection which make up the contents of the tool chest." Considering today's times, Gale has done a wonderful job of reducing his collection to one chest. 7

M-WTCA.ORG

June 2009 25 M-WTCA Advanced Levels of Membership and Additional Gifts for 2008

Benefactors Torn Jordens Roy Harmon Harry A Audley Carl Bilderback Patrick Joy John N. Hood James Barbieur Roger Bourgeois Thomas Kluwin Lyle Hoofnagle Tim Barman Keith Cheveralls Mike Lamarre Ronald Howard Andrew Beelen Pete Cohan Harold J. Liberty Jr. Bob Hurley John Bellon Andrew D'Elia Robert R. Llewellyn Richard Hutchins Tom Bramschreiber Charlie Dunbar Leo Maack Duane Johnson Glenn A. Campbell James F. Earnhardt Bobby Martin Ashley Kennedy Arlet E. Cassaidy Maurice Gambrel Roselyn V. McKittrick John W. Kinnerneyer Herbert G. Caudle Karl Gurlicke Steven W. Neale Bryan A. Konsler Henry L. Caudle Peter J. Hathaway Ken Padgett Patrick A. Leach John Craft A.C.H. Hess Jack A. Rhodes James Mau Don DeCook Ed Hobbs Allen Roderick Bill T. McConnell Howard DeRosa Joel Moskowitz Clifford Sapienza Lewis McDonald Jr. Richard Dodge Terrill D. Parrish Michael Sepsey John McKiernan Thomas Dugan Russell Predmore Siegfried Snyder Frederick D. Mears Roy Ebersole Willie Royal Vincent L. Soukup Edward Mueller Michael Fitterling Roy Schaffer W.L. (Bill) Stover David L. Murdoch Jack Folse John Simmons Peter J. Strasser Jim Nasvik Brent Franken Frank Tolford Roy Underhill George Paiva Alvin Furrer John Venable Ron Walter Robert L. Petrovic Raymond Galatas J. Kurt Von Achen Royce Winge Torn H. Pointer Steven Gretter John Walkowiak Jr. Donald E. Wood Michael Power Ron Hess Craig C. Yost Charles Prine Jr. Karl Hesse Sustaining Members Robert Rups Alan Hochhalter Contributing Ray Schmidt Jared Isaacs Bill Adsit Members Edward Blatnick Irwin J. Sitkin Joe Jerkins Jin1 Ackelson A. Dwayne Broddie Mark Snyder Ron Kaplan Calvin Anthony Thomas R. Bruce Leo Stambaugh John King EilaAmold Tim Clarke Harold Stiffler Elroy A. Klug Bob Austin Gary R. Coleman Robert Stoxen David Kollmeyer Les Bornhorst Alton Cronk Sam Strauss Jr. David Kretchun Alan W. Brown David Dell William Vierhile Walter T. Lane Robert A. Brown Nelson Denny Jack Wagoner David T. Leary Sr. Marvin B. Bunn David Elliott M-WTCA.ORGLadislaus M. Walen jr Ernest E. Leavitt Richard P. Cadieux George Elsass Willian1 Watkins Peter M. Leenhouts Richard L. Chapman Carlton K. Fahler Jon Whitney Mark Levanway Nelson Coressel Jr. Bob Fields Edmund L Wilkins MD Howard Loomis Jr. Jim Davis John Fite David Wingo Paul S. Matis III Donald W. Devine John Fitzgerald Gary L. Wright David G. McCullough Glen Ferguson Dennis Freund Michael E. McGee Dennis Fuller Chalmers Gordon Additional Gifts Philip McKinney C. Barnes Gardiner II Ronald Holwager Brent Akerley DonMcKoy Jonathan Hanke William T. Jensen III Willard Anderson Galen McLaughlin

26 The Gristmill William McMillen Mount Vernon Intern Werner H. Gurnpertz William T. Storey Tim Meek Don Riley Thomas M. Haffner Robert Stoxen Gary L. Miller Danny L. Harden Mark W. Stutz David Mischke Scholarships Eugene Hayes David C. Swanson William J. Morgan Martin J. Donnelly Thomas A Henry Frederic S Thompson Robert W. Mustain Jr. John G. Wells Edward Hill Louis R. Tilton Tom Narigon Paul Honore Richard B. Tobin David H. Newton Endowment Fund Richard Hutchins Pete Vaughan Bert E. Orcutt Stephen Jacobs Verne E. Vollrath Ray Nissen Morris Peterson Hern1an Jarrett Ladislaus M. Walen Glenn Anderson Lyle Peterson David Jeffers Dean Webster Peter B. Aronhin1e William Pickett Ron Jensen Charles N. Williams Edward Barber John A Reed Ron Kaplan Scott Wilson L.M. Blain James A Reppke Len Keimer Tom Witte Thomas M. Blaisdell Ashton T. Reynolds Robert Kendra Dewey Yarborough Joel Blasius John M. Roblin Roger D. King Lawrence E. Yopp Paul Boldt Wolfgang Ruecker Jim Kirby Bill Youart Roger Bourgeois Willian1 H. Rypka James P. Kullmer James F. Zboyovsky Don Boyer Paul Schaffner Walter T. Lane Richard Bradshaw L. Samuel Scheiderer Herman Leonhardt Endowment Fund - Glenn A Brennan Joseph W. Seremeth Harold J. Liberty Mary Lou Stover William S. Brooks Lynn Smith Horst Lichtenberg Memorial Fund Larry E. Brown DickM. Snow Paul S. Matis David E. Buchanan Doug Fowler Mike Stasik Gerald L. Miels James Cascarano David E. Heckel Mike Stemple David Mischke Walter Clement Ed Hobbs Michael Stich Michael Mueller R. Kelly Clore Randy L. Knudsen Robert Stidfole Suzanne Nelson J.B. Cox Ronald W. Pearson Gene Terril Wayne Oestreich John Davis Mel Ring Robert Terry Charles L. Pettett Andrew D'Elia Willie Royal Allan Thompson Dennis A Piper Larry De Wolf Vaughn Sinunons Richard Torgerson Claude A Pitman Richard D. Dickerson William Watkins David Paul Trueblood Hans Porcher Thomas Dugan Richard Turpen Glen Rabe James Durochia Ernest Urban Richard J. Riley Philip Eberhard Paul E. VanHorn Bill Roberts M-WTCA.ORGCharles J. Ebert Darrell Vogt Bobby Delane Roland Anthony L. Engels Gene Walbridge Larry Rose Alan L. Fetty Michael Weichbrod Ken Royston David Foster Richard A Weymer Robert J. Sauer Robert A Freed Brian J. Willie Frank J. Scheibert Thomas L. Gallerani Donald Wing Richard S. Sclunechel Michael Garlich Thomas Wyman Roger K. Smith Rick Gayle Richard Sprague Robert Gilmore

June 2009 27 Lets Talk About Marketing Your Antique Tool Collection ...

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Professional Auction Services iI1 Well Established Markets Free Pickup and Trucking State of the Art Technology Live Free or Die Antique Tool Auctions Call Today: (BOO) 869-0695

We are Committe to Expan ing t e Mar, et or Antique Too s n the past eight years we have sold nearly four hundred thousand antique tools at auction. IOur extensive advertising, Internet marketing and commitment to using technology to achieve the best results for our consignors are the reasons we are the biggest and the best. If you are planning the sale of some or all of your antique tool collection, please call for a confidential con- sultation Today. Martin J. Donnelly, President Live Free or Die Antique Tool Auctions a Division ofMartin J. Donnelly Antique Tools (800) 869-0695/(607) 566-2617 · www.mjdtools.com cfflw Of~lclj ~Fl cfl)te0tdial QS¥udwn~ o/ QS:(/nf:t~ue Q/t dX Please Plan to Join Us at Our Auctions

Five Great Auctions Remaining in 2009 M-WTCA.ORGListed Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Listed Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Friday, September 18 Nashua, New Hampshire Friday, April 24 Nashua, New Hampshire Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Catalogue Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Catalogue Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Saturday, September 19 Nashua, New Hampshire Saturday, April 25 Nashua, New Hampshire Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Listed Auction: Ramada Inn Hotel Friday, October 16 Indianapolis, Indiana Open House Auction Martin ]. Donnelly Auctioneer: Bill Baxter & Joint Tool Meeting: Avoca, New York Catalogue Auction: Ramada Inn Hotel Thurs., Fri, & Sat., Saturday, October 17 Indianapolis, Indiana July 30 thru August 1 (3001 Lots Sold in Three Days!) Auctioneer: Bill Baxter Auctioneers: Bill Baxter & Paul Wilmott nnua ,pen House & Antique Tool Auction Thursday, Friday and Saturday July 30, 31 & August 1, 2009

Martin J. Donnelly Antique Tools • 5223 County Route 8 • Avoca, New York lease plan to join us for a Quadruple Joint Invitational Meeting of Pthe Mid-West Tool Collectors Association, Early American Industries Association, the Western New York Tool Collectors and the Tool Group of Canada at our World Headquarters Complex in ., " Avoca, New York. We will sell 500 lots Thurday at 2:01 pm.; 1250 lots Friday at 9:01 a.m.; and 1251 Lots Saturday at 9:01 a.m. Plans call for tool trading beginning Friday morning and continuing at dawn on Last Year's Auction _ 2001 Lots in 7 112 Hours! Saturday. The sale will be called jointly by Live Free or Die Auctioneers Paul Wilmott of New Hampshire and Bill Baxter of Indiana. We will be selling between 225 and 250 lots per hour. To register, please send $5.00 and indicate whether or not you will be selling. There is an additional fee of $5.00 for the first dealer space and $20.00 for a second dealer space. We have room for approximately 100 dealers. Some sell­ ing will take place on Thursday afternoon. It will be high summer in the beautiful Finger Lakes Area. Please plan to make a long weekend ofit and bring the family for a great time in the country. Please plan to join us for a pig roast on Friday evening. Please note on the Dealer Space Registration whether or not you plan to attend the pig roast and include an additional $5 .00 per person to partially offset the cost. Our auction of 3001 Lots will begin at Thursday at 2:01 p.m. and will feature the extensive tool and antique refer­ ence library of David Pierson of Woodland Hills, California and other antique tools from collections in the Northeast. Each day's sale will include high quality antique tools, large dealer lots and everything in-between. Included in the sales will be a wide range of STANLEY tools, chisels, edge tools, blacksmith's tools and more. Over 20,000 tools will be included in the sale. Auction Preview and Open House All Day Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and before and during the auction on Saturday. Please check our web site for lodging information or give us a call at (800) 869-0695. PLEASE COME PREPARED TO FILL YOUR VEHICLE WITH TOOLS - RegistrationForm-for-Deafer Space &-PigRoasC ri-.f;1t~;c;s;ary to regi;ier tor auction-onij,F - - - " Send to: Martin J. DonnellyM-WTCA.ORG Antique Tools · PO Box 281 · Bath NY 14810 Yes, I/We will be attending. Name(s): Address for name badge(s): Dealer Space $5.00: ___ Second Dealer Space $20.00: Friday Night Pig Roast $5.00 per person: Total Enclosed: Please Note: We have arranged for great weather and expect temperatures in the 80's with a light cooling breeze and a cloudless sky!

Live Free or Die Antique Tool Auctions - A Division of Martin J. Donnelly Antique Tools - (800) 869-0695 Lets Talk About Marketing Your Antique Tool Collection ... Leonard Bailey: The Years at Stanley Rule & Level Co., Part I by John G. Wells & Paul Van Pernis©

This is the fourth in a series of articles on Leonard Bailey. The previous three articles were published in the June, September, and December issues of The 2002 Gristmill. Stanley Rule & Level Co. began operations in New Britain, Connecticut as A. Stanley & Co. in October of 1854. It was a partnership of four members of the Stanley family, Augustus, Gad, Henry, and Timothy together with Thomas Conklin, who was a rule manufacturer in Bristol, Connecticut. Almost immediately they purchased the business, tools, machinery, and inventory of Seymour & Churchill a highly regarded rule manufacturer, also in Bristol, Connecticut, and began manufacturing boxwood and ivory rules. In 1855, after a few months of operation, they purchased the rule business of Seth Savage of Middletown, Connecticut and brought it to New Britain.; Figure 1: Stanley Factory in 1872.

In 1858, under the organizing skill of Henry Stanley, Hall & (Figure 1), setting the rest aside for acquisition of compa­ Knapp, a New Britain manufacturer of squares, bevels, nies and patents. Second, they began looking for a com­ and levels, merged with A. Stanley & Co. The combined pany they could acquire that would broaden their line of companies took the name of the Stanley Rule & Level Co. carpenter's hand tools. Stanley was well versed in the In 1863 Stanley Rule & Level Co. acquired E. A. Stearns & advantages of buying companies that had already devel­ Co, a manufacturer of boxwood and ivory rules in oped a successful product as a way of adding products to Brattleboro, Vermont. This was a firm that Henry Stanley their line. It was faster and less expensive than designing had always admired for their reputation as a maker of top and developing a new product from scratch, and then quality rules, its highly skilled craftsmen, and most of all building up a market for it. for the management ability of the president and owner, The wooden carpenter's Charles L. Mead. plane had already start­ By the end of the Civil War, Stanley Rule & Level Co. had ed to fade from favor earned a reputation as a manufacturer of high quality box­ and was being gradually wood and ivory rules, wood levels, squares, bevels, tool replaced by the new cast handles, and an assortment of turned wood novelties. iron planes pioneered by Hazard Knowles, and After the Civil War economic conditions improved. Birdsill Holly (Figure 2)-H Building construction increased in the rapidly expanding The market was almost West and war torn South, creating a tremendous demand Figure 2 Holly smooth plane. ready for an adjustable for building materials, hardware, and skilled tradesmen. cast iron plane. Clearly the best adjustable cast iron bench The completion of the transcontinental railroad on May plane being made at that time was made by Bailey, Chany & 10, 1869 was a major event in the transforn1ation of the Co. in Boston. Their product was first rate, but their mar­ United States into a thriving industrial nation. The rail­ keting was weak Stanley recognized it was an opportune road made it faster and much less expensive to ship man­ time to acquire Bailey, Chany & Co. ufactured goods from the industrial centers in the East across the country to the West,M-WTCA.ORG where they were needed Leonard Bailey for expansion. Post war reconstruction in the South cre­ began making ated a huge demand for manufactured goods of all kinds. adjustable split frame planes Stanley's Board of Directors recognized the tremendous (Figure 3) in opportunity these conditions created and decided to refo­ Winchester, cus their product line on the tools carpenters needed to Massachusetts meet these demands. They would have to expand their in 1855. He line of woodworking tools as quickly as possible, so they moved his shop did two things: first, they increased their already substan­ to Boston in tial capitalization from $100,000 to $200,000 and used 1860, where he part of the money to build a new large factory building Figure 3: Bai ley's spli t frame plane

30 The Gristmill developed the verti- The plane's frog was a separate casting held in place by cal post plane two screws in slotted holes allowing it to be moved to (Figure 4), and went adjust the size of the plane's throat opening to suit the through a series of work at hand. Bailey's new patented thin plane iron and unsuccessful finan- highly arched cap iron were clamped firmly in place on cial partnerships. the frog by Bailey's cam lock lever cap. The lever cap The last and most applied pressure to the arched cap iron, which transferred productive was his .______. it to the cutter right at the cutting edge. The frog provid- partnership with Figure 4 _. Bailey's vertical post plane ed full support to the cutter all the way down to the cut- Jacob Chany in 1868 ~------======--,.--_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-~~---, ting edge. When the in the firm of Bailey, ~ plane iron was Chany & Co. at 53-57 mo!'! i'!.A!l!!B. .l'Bl'l:£8. l!lOl'! &l'O:!!l! S!!AY!'JB, clamped to the frog Causeway Street in 4 I .,.,,~\ -IIIIIIIIII-.Jilatilr"- by the powerful Boston. In this new ~ 2 cf4> clamping action of partnership he had ~~ i ' , ______.~ the lever cap, it com- more space to work • ~: :. ::=:::.:..-=..::- ,.,_,,...... __....,._ .. :: pletely eliminated and the money ~ ;-;:.-,.,:::::-:.:;:- ;: cutter chatter. On to buy machines ! =.=,.,;,;:_;-.:::·-::- .:: many other planes, and hire qualified : =:.:-.::..:.:.,., :-,: cutter chatter caused u --~... ~ - mechanics. He was • -- - tear out when plan- able to set up more ,...... , ,... ,.... , ~":..'"':-.. ning wood with rap- special purpose •""n"~... "''"~""""' '• -·---· -·--~- idly reversing grain. lo ,i.. .. ~ - • -- -- ..., .....,.i,-- •.... ,...... _'-.. machines and make =-· -::.·.:.. .. :..'"': -.-::;,,,::-::; :;:-;. ::::. "::'~ ·=-..::::::: Another advantage of jigs that greatly sim- -"':"~':!.?.::-:;:.:::: I :::~ -:_:_::;:.:;,::,-- Bailey's thin plane plified the work and ~------=-'=--=-==------~ iron was its small increased produc- Figure 5: Bailey, Chaney & Co . 'J'rifold. bevel, which could tion. Bailey, Chany & Co. printed an illustrated trifold cata- be sharpened easily by a carpenter using a bench stone; log inl868 (Figure 5) listing 25 models and sizes of bench sharpening a thick tapered iron often required regrinding. planes and 17 models of spokeshaves.'" Bailey had in effect "invented" the modem carpenter's plane. By 1867 Bailey's effort to develop the perfect carpenter's It was inexpensive to make, beautiful to look at, and a delight bench plane had progressed through his split frame and to use. Today it is called the "Boston Bailey Type l" plane by vertical post designs, to finally settle on a simple design collectors.•v (Figure 7) Bailey's third cutter adjustment, using his third cutter adjustment, covered by patent No. patented August 6, 1867, was used exclusively by Stanley 67,398 issued August 6, 1867. (Figure 6) Rule & level Co. on many hundreds of thousands of carpen­ ter's bench and block planes and when the patents ran out, it This adjustment consisted of was copied and used by most of the other companies mak­ a "Y" shaped lever pivoted ing carpenters planes in the United States and abroad. on a short shaft affixed to the plane's frog. The single short end of the lever pro­ jected into a small opening M-WTCA.ORGin the cap iron, which was clamped to the cutter. The longer end of the lever was Figure 6: Bailey's third yoke shaped; its two ends adjustment were engaged in a wide groove in the brass adjusting nut on a horizontal threaded shaft. Turning the adjustment nut moved it along the shaft taking the long end of the lever with it. The short end of the lever moved the cap iron which moved the cutter. It was a brilliant mechanical movement: simple, strong, and very sensitive. It was the most successful cutter adjust­ ment ever invented for a woodworking plane, and was by far Bailey's most important invention. Figure 7: Boston Bailey 1'ype 1.

June 2009 31 For a full discussion of Bailey's work prior to 1869 see Getting set up in New Britain three articles by Paul Van Pernis & John G. Wells in the It is most likely that Stanley moved everything they had June, September, and December 2002 issues of The purchased to their factory in New Britain as soon as the Gristmill. deal was done and transportation could be arranged, Acquisition of Bailey, Chany & Co probably in June of 1869. Stanley had already contracted to retain Bailey to superintend the manufacture of the On May 7th, 1869, Stanley's Board of directors decided planes, spoke shaves, and scrapers, but they soon realized they wanted to acquire Bailey's patents and business, but that it would be to their advantage to have him help set up their decision was not without risk. Although cast iron the machinery and train their workers so they could get planes had been gaining in popularity, they were by no into production as quickly as possible. means widely accepted. But the opportunity was too tempting to pass up. They sent Thomas A. Conklin and Bailey had spent almost 15 years designing, developing, Charles S. Mead to Boston to negotiate a purchase. Their and improving his planes. He was probably devastated by first priority was to obtain control of Bailey's patents, then the economic burdens that forced him to agree to license acquire the business of Bailey, Chany & Co., including the his patents and sell the Bailey, Chaney & Co. business to machinery jigs, fixtures, and inventory, and finally, secure Stanley. But at least he would have the opportunity to the services of Leonard Bailey to supervise the manufac­ supervise the manufacture of his planes for a year in ture of his planes. Stanley's workshops in New Britain. He probably went to New Britain as soon as he could; later he moved his wife Bailey was a gifted inventor, and a talented machinist and and fan1ily there when he found proper housing for them, woodworker, but he lacked business acun1en, and the most likely in the fall of 1869. vu' c, interest and skill necessary to promote and market his planes. Although his planes and spoke shaves were car­ Stanley Begins Production of Bailey's Planes ried by several Boston hardware dealers, they did not Stanley had all the machinery set up and began manufac­ have broad exposure, and sales lagged well behind pro­ turing planes sometime in the second half of 1869. At first duction. The business probably did not generate enough they allocated 3,500 square feet of factory space and 10 sales to produce a return above cost, making Chany workmen to the production of Bailey planes, exclusive of uneasy about the security of his investment. If Chany had japanning which was done in a different department." become eager to sell the business to recoup what he could of his investment, he might have urged or even pressured All of the planes that Stanley purchased from Bailey, Bailey to sell to Stanley Rule & Level Co. Chaney & Co. were moved to New Britain and made ready for sale. They began selling Bailey had always protected his patents and was careful them almost immediately. One of the to keep them outside of any partnership; consequently, testimonials about the virtues of when asked, he refused to sell them to Stanley. However, Bailey's planes that Stanley included after considerable discussion, he agreed on May 19, 1869 in their 1870 catalog was dated to grant Stanley the exclusive rights to manufacture and August 16, 1869. sell the tools made under his seven original patents for a royalty of 5% of the cost of manufacturing them: Wood bottom and iron planes made in Boston by Bailey, are easily recog­ On the next day, May 20, 1869, Stanley engaged Bailey for nized by the banjo shaped spring one year to superintend the manufacture of his planes, under the lever cap (Figure 8), and spoke shaves, and scrapers.vi M-WTCA.ORGthe solid brass cutter adjusting nut A week later, Stanley was able to buy the tools, machinery, Figure 8: Banjo stamped "Bailey __ & Co. jigs, and inventory of Bailey Chany & Co. for a very rea­ spr ing. BOSTON" with "Woods" name sonable $12,500. Although not much in today's economy, removed leaving a blank space it was a considerable sum in 1869.vu after 'Bailey'. (Figure 9) Collectors call these Type 1 The acquisition of Bailey's line of planes by the Stanley planes. The only difference Rule & Level Co. had a profound effect on their future. By between a Boston Bailey Type 1 this single act, they set the course by which they would wood bottom plane made and eventually become the largest and most respected manu­ sold in Boston and a Type 2 facturer of hand tools for the woodworking trades in the wood bottom plane (Figure 10) United States and eventually the world. made in Boston but sold by Figure 9: Adjustment nut.

32 The Gristmill rooms in our new brick Factory at New Britain, where we shall continue the manufacture of these superior Goods, under the personal supervision of the patentee, Mr. Leonard Bailey. These tools ...are the matured result of fifteen years' study and experimenting, by a practical mechanic in the use of woodworking tools ... " Stanley's 1870 catalog contained 5 pages of large engravings of Bailey's planes, including cast iron bench planes, wood bottom planes, an adjustable scraper, thin plane iron, arched cap iron, and ten spoke shaves. They even includ­ ed a full page of testimonials by manufacturers of organs, piano fortes, and private railroad cars. Stanley described Figure 10: Stanley No.25 Type 2. Bailey's planes in glowing terms by writing, "For beauty of Stanley in New Brita.in, was the Eagle trade mark Stanley style and finish they are unequaled, and the great conven­ st.amped on the toe (Figure 11) of all of the wood bottom ience in operating renders them the cheapest planes in planes. xi There is no way to tell the difference between a Type use; they are self-adjusting in every respect, and each part 1 iron plane made and sold in being made interchangeable, can be replaced at a trifling Boston and one made in Boston expense. " xiv In addition to the full size and pocket tool cat­ but sold in New Brita.in. Roger alogs they published, Stanley also advertised Bailey Smith's type studies for Bailey's Planes in magazines for the building and woodworking wood bottom and iron bench trades, and took every opportunity to write glowing arti­ planes mal

June 2009 33 plane at both ends. The frog, containing Bailey's third cut­ curvature of the sole, and enabled it to plane a tighter ter adjustment, patented August 6, 1867, was a separate radius. The ends of the steel sole were attached to narrow casting. It slipped in between the sides of the body cast­ steel straps, with hinges. The straps were threaded ing and was attached with two screws from each side of through a slotted brass cylinder at each end of the plane, the frog into the sides of the body. and locked in position with screw eye thmnb screws. The really clever feature was that the brass cylinders were A flexible spring steel sole was attached to the bottom of mounted so they could rotate to maintain alignment with the plane with ten countersunk machine screws in two the straps as the cUIVature of the bed changed (Figure 16). rows, one on each side of the mouth. A slotted tab on each This reduced the force required to adjust the CUIVature of end of the sole was bent up at a 900/4 angle to the sole, and the spring steel bed and made it much easier to set the bent back in a cUIVe following the shape of the body. The plane to the required shape. tabs were secured in a recessed channel on each end of the plane by a cast brass thumb screw with a washer formed at its base. These were the same brass thumb screws Stanley was using on their rose­ wood and brass bevels. The lever cap was the same lever cap that was used on Bailey No. 3 Type 2 iron smooth planes currently being made in New Britain. It had a solid back, with a rectangular spring and the number "3" was cast on the back just below the keyhole (Figure 14 right). It was ground and polished smooth."'' The solid brass cutter adjustment nut was Figure 16: Bed attachment, Types stamped with the earliest stamp Stanley 1 & 2 Circle Planes. used on Bailey bench planes: "PATENT­ Number '3' in casting. The same brass cutter adjustment nut ED AUG. 31, 1858, AUG. 6, 1867". The No. used on the Type 1 plane was used on the 13 Type 1 plane was a handsome design, Figure 14: Back of Lever Caps. Left, Type 2 plane. The lever cap on the Type No . 13 Typel; right, No. 13 Type 2. comfortable to hold and easy to use. 2 plane was the same lever cap that was being used at that time on Type 3 No. 21, 22, and 23 wood Bailey made only a very small nun1ber of the Type 1 circle bottom planes (Figure 14 right). It had a solid back and a planes before redesigning it. On March 28, 1871 he was rectangular spring. The bevel around the rear of the key­ granted patent No. 113,003 on the new design, now known hole was one inch across compared to 13/16 inch on the as the Stanley No. 13 Type 2 circle plane (Figure 15). The earlier lever cap, and the neck above the keyhole was 1/4 change in design focused on making it easier to adjust the inch longer. This lever cap was ground smooth and japanned black. The protruding rounded shapes on each end of the body provided good hand grips, and the slightly larger rear hand grip made room for the end of the rear bed strap when the bed was adjusted to plane a concave shape. M-WTCA.ORGBailey's patent clain1ed the slotted brass rotating strap locks as the new, unique, patentable feature. The thin flexible tempered steel sole was not new and could not be patented. Flexible steel fences or soles were used on the I. Sym circle plow, ca. 1830, the Falconer Plow, ca, 1848, William A. Cole's wood body circle plane patented June 6, 1848,"" and the Evans iron body circle plane patented January 28, 1862 and March 22, 1864. Stanley began selling the Type 1 No. 13 circle planes late in 1869 or early in 1870, and the Type 2 circle planes as soon as the application for the patent was filed sometime Figure 15: Stanley No. 13 Type 2 Circle Plane. in mid 1870. The earliest Stanley catalogue that contained

34 The Gristmill an illustration of the No. 13 circle plane was the January 1872 large format catalogue. The patent was not issued until March 28, 1871, making it too late for the 1871 cata­ log. The No. 13 Type 2 Circle Plane was manufactured by Stanley from1871 until 1909:v;; Bailey signed an agreement with Stanley on February 16, 1872, giving them the exclusive right to manufacture and sell the No. 13 circle plane; his royalty was 25 cents per plane and the planes were priced at $5.00. Bailey's royal­ ty on the No. 13 was more than the royalty of 5% he received on tools made under his original patents, which was computed on the manufacturing cost rather than on the selling price. In 1877, Augustus Stanley decided he wanted a more easily adjusted circle plane in their line; he also thought the royalty they were paying Bailey for his circle plane was too high. He asked Henry Clark, one of their inside contractors, to design Figure 19: Miller's 1870 Combination Plane Type 1. a circle plane with a bed that was easy to adjust, and within planes in the carpenter's kit. If Stanley Rule & Level was a few weeks Clark made a plane arranged so both ends of the to become a dominant leader in hand tools for woodwork­ bed could be adjusted at the same time with one hand. Clark ers, they needed a top quality combination plane in their was granted patent No. 195,480 on September 25, 1877 on the line. Charles Mead, formerly manager and owner of E. A. plane known as the Stanley No. 113 circle plane. Stanley Steams & Co., rule makers in Brattleboro, Vermont, the gave him a royalty of 5 cents per plane; it became very pop­ firm that Stanley acquired in 1863, was now the Treasurer ular and was offered from 1877 to 1942.xviii of Stanley. It is likely that Mead convinced Charles Miller to sell the patent for his combination plane to Stanley and Figure 17: Phillips come to New Britain and work for them."" Type 1 Plow Plane. Photo courtesy of Stanley devoted two pages and five engravings in the Brown Auction services. January 1871 catalog to announce their acquisition of Charles G. Miller's patent for an C. t1. Jb.7kr. Car,e1tlm .l'wtr. adjustable metallic combination 104753 l'AlllmJOYt!81&70 plane. They said it was a plow, fil­ letster, rabbet, and matching plane, all in one tool, and went on to fully describe the operation of Charles Miller's the plane and its features. They Combination Planes offered the cast iron version with a removable filletster bed and 9 In 1867, Russell Phillips of Boston, ,,,.,. 1,,-t cutters (Figure 19) for $15.00 invented and patented a metallic (No.41) and the gun metal version combination plow and filletster for $18.00 (No.42). plane (Figure 17) patentM-WTCA.ORG No.67,671 dated August 6, 1867.'"x A little later, Miller's patent planes were proba­ Charles Miller of Brattleboro, bly made in Justus Traut's shop at Vermont, was issued patent No.104, Stanley."" xxu This was the beginning 753 dated June 28, 1870 (Figure 18), of a major move by Stanley Rule & for a metallic combination plow, fil­ Level Co. into dado, matching, and letster, rabbet, and matching plane. combination planes of every It was evident that the metallic com­ description. It eventually culminat­ bination plane would soon become ing in the very popular No.45 and an important tool for woodworkers No.55 combination planes. Stanley because it had the potential for Rule & Level was now further com­ replacing a whole range of wooden Figure 18: Miller's 1870 combination plane. mitted to a future of making not

June 2009 35 only bench planes, but planes of every description for carpenters and woodworkers. It appears that Miller and Bailey becan1e good friends. They later collaborated on the design of a dado plane, and were issued patent No. 165,356, for it on July 6, 1875, which was assigned to Leonard Bailey. The plane was later man­ ufactured by Leonard Bailey & Co. in Hartford, Connecticut and offered as Bailey's Patented No.14 Combination Plane. Miller and Bailey left Stanley at about the same time. There is a little more C. G MILLE R. 1•,roo#IUI ill Cup .. ters' Plews to the story about N• 131, 30 . , ...... , . ll. lt12' Charles Miller that Fig. 22 L eonard Bailey & Co. Trade Card may have influenced (Figure 23) look like they may have been designed by Bailey's work. In Miller, or at least influenced by his distinctive graphic style. 1872 Miller designed The handle on the production model of Bailey's No.14 com­ another combination bination plane is essentially the same design as seen on plane, known as the Miller's No.50 combination plane and on the patent draw­ No. 50. Patent No. ings and early models of the Stanley No. 48 and No.49 131,367 was issued match planes (Figure 24). These match planes were to him for it on designed and patented by Miller on July 16, 1875, patent No. September 17, 1872 165,355 This patent was (Figure 20). It is granted on the same day interesting that Miller that Miller's joint patent assigned the patent with Bailey for the No.14 for the No. 50 to Combination Plane was Oliver S. Judd and granted. ,odv Charles Blakeslee, of New Britain, rather left: Figure 23: Medallion used Figure 20: Miller's 1872 than to Stanley Rule on Bailey Victor Planes. Combi nation Plane. & Level Co. ""'" The below: Figure 24: Stanley design of the No. 50 plow plane was exceptionally intri­ No. 49, Charles Miller patent. cate, flowing, and beautiful, with a strong art nouveau feel­ ing (Fig. 21). The graphic design of Leonard Bailey & Co.'s trade card (Figure 22) and the large ornate medallions that appear on Bailey's Victor bench, block, and circle planes M-WTCA.ORG

Part II, in a future issue of the Gristmill, we will com­ plete the story of Bailey's years at Stanley. It will be fol­ lowed later by an additional series of articles on F igure 21: Mi ller's 18 72 Patent Combination Plane. Bailey's work after he left Stanley.

36 The Gristmill i Philip Stanley, Boxwood & Ivory: Stanley Traditional Rules, p.l ix Personal tragedy hounded Bailey all of his life. On December 31st, 1873, his only son, George Bailey died of "convulsions" at the age of 4 ii Hazard Knowles, of Colchester, Connecticut, made cast iron planes 1/2. Of Bailey's seven children, only two daughters, Alice and Nellie from 1827 to 1835. He pioneered the idea of using a cast iron plane survived to adulthood. body as a replacement for the old wood body planes. The idea was copied by a number of small makers. In 1852-1859, Birdsill Holly made ' Jan1es M. Burdick, "History of the Bailey Plane Business from 1869", cast iron bench and block planes in Seneca Falls, N.Y. These were con­ partially reprinted in Roger K. Smith, Patented Transitional & Metallic siderably more sophisticated than Knowles planes and used iron lever Planes in America - Vol. II, p. 329. caps instead of wood wedges to secure the cutters. "' The nun1ber of the plane was stamped on the toe under the Eagle iii For more on Leonard Bailey from 1855 until 1869 see three articles trade mark beginning with Type 5, 1872: Smith op. cit, Vol. I, p.276. by Paul Van Pernis & John Wells in the June, September, and December issues of the 2002 The Gristmill, published by the Mid-West Tool '" Roger K. Smith, "Bailey-Stanley Wood Bottom Plane Types" and Collectors Association. "Bailey-Stanley Iron Plane Types" op. cit. Vol. I, pp.275-284.

,iii Ibid, p. 268. " Characteristics of Plane types are described in detail in Roger K. Smith, Patented Transitional and Metallic Planes in America 1827-1927, The Stanley Rule & Level Companies Catalogue of Tools and Volume I, (also known as P-TAMPIA), p.275-284. Hardware, 1870, pages 38-43. ' It is too bad that Bailey did not hire an attorney to advise or repre­ " Roger K. Smith, "Bailey-Stanley Iron Plane Types" op. cit., Vol. I, sent him. Had he done so, he might have been told that permanently p.279-284. granting Stanley the exclusive rights to manufacture and sell the tools covered by his patents was about the same as selling them the patents. m W. A. Cole's patent circle plane, Patent No. 5620, June 6, 1848. Photo courtesy of Martin J. Donnelly Antique Tools. '' James M. Burdick, "History of the Bailey Plane Business From 1869", original typed manuscript bottom p.2. Stanley's representatives imme­ m i John Walter, Antique and Collectable Stanley Tools, p.370-371. diately negotiated a contract for Bailey's services but were comfortable Roger K. Smith, op. cit. Vol. II, pp. 326-329, James M. Burdick, waiting a week to buy the business and stock of Bailey, Chany & Co. "History of the Bailey Plane Business from 1869". Once they obtained control of the patents, the physical assets of Bailey, Chany & Co. were worth less than the value of a going business. "'' Roger K. Smith, op. cit., Vol. I, pp. 85-90.

'" In 1869-1870 the average work week was six days long and the aver­ xx Kenneth D. Roberts, Wooden Planes in 19th Century America, 2nd age work day was 10 hours. A common laborer made $1.60 a day, a Edition, p.72. cabinet maker earned $1.50 a day, and machinists and toolmakers earned $2.50 a day. . "History of Wages in the United States from "" Robert Keith Leavitt, A History of the Stanley Works, November, Colonial Times to 1928", Bulletin of the United States Bureau of Labor 1955, p.58 Statistics, No. 499, October 1929. "" Kenneth D. Roberts, op. cit., p.72.

~ii The U. S. Census showed him living in New Britain with his family xxii, John G Wells, "Who Made the Miller's 1872 Patent No.50 Plow in 1870. The data for the census was probably gathered in the fall of Plane?", footnote No. 2, The Gristmill, June 2006. 1869, or the first few months of 1870. ""' Kenneth Roberts, p. 2 of the "Documentary" following page 28 of the reprint of Leonard Bailey & Co.'s 187 6 catalog.

Lest We Forget by Bob Roger ' ' CJ Lest We Forget is a series of short articles, each about a tool or s--ki&ii implement that was once a common household, farm, or trade necessity, but whose use M-WTCA.ORGor existence may soon be forgotten. The Peach Stoner William Sherman received patent number 228,949 on June Figure 1. Sherman's Peach Stoner Patent 15, 1880 for a peach stoner. His idea was to reduce the The example shown in Figure 2 is marked 'PAT'D JUNE 8, waste that occurs with a traditional tubular corer. It con­ 1880 SHERMAN'. These stoners are scarce if not rare. sisted of a sharp lmife blade that ends in a U shape. The U This one is the only exan1ple I have ever seen in real life arms go about half way around a large peach stone. The or in a reference book. knife slices to the stone until the U blade pushes against the stone, and the peach is then rotated 360 degrees so the U severs the stone from the peach. The peach is halved in the process. His patent drawing is shown in Figure 1.

Figure 2. Sherman's Sl011 er

June 2009 37 My Two Strange Stanley Planes by Dick Dickerson

I have had these planes for about 20 years. One is an aluminum 71 1/2 router and the other is a brass left hand 99 side rabbet. Both came from Cheyenne, WY. The 71 1/2 was found at a garage sale and the 99 was given to me by a fell ow tool collector.

The 71 1/2 is a type 5, 1925-38. Fig. 1 & 2. The knobs look like a hardwood. The body was not tapped for the adjustment screw. The part that holds the cutter is made of copper as it has the same design as the Fig. 1 original. The 99 was made to have the depth stop. Fig. 3 & 4. The model number is in a rectan­ gle and the Stanley logo is in an oval. Both were partially finished. I have no idea who made them. One suggestion I received was that they might have been made during World War II when Stanley went to wartime production. Tools were needed but maybe not available. Any suggestions or advice would be M-WTCA.ORGgreatly appreciated.

Fig. 4

38 The Gristmill Obituaries

Mary Lou Stover A tribute by her friends ating the Area B St. Francis, WI meet, the transition was made easier because of all the assistance and information Mary Lou Stover 81, of Muskego, I received from Mary Lou and Sue (Tubman) Nelson. Even Wisconsin, and formerly of Towanda, after I took over the meet, Mary Lou was always the first passed away at her residence person to offer her help. Wednesday February 4, 2009. She was laid to rest at the Pennell Cemetery in Although Mary Lou contributed to the M-WTCA organiza­ Towanda, IL. Mary Lou graduated from tion in many ways, her largest contribution had to be as edi­ the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with BA and tor of The Gristmill. Her first stint as editor began in 1978 MA degrees. She was the former co-owner of the Abingdon when the magazine consisted of 8 pages. Her last issue was Argus and a former editor-in-chief of the Community the 2004 September issue which contained 44 pages and Newspapers Wisconsin. Memorials may be made to the four color photos. Obviously, Mary Lou was instrumental in Mid-West Tool Collectors Association, Endowment Fund creating the quality publication we all enjoy today. for Preservation - The Mary Lou Stover Memorial Fund. All of us who were fortunate to know Mary Lou, will never Members of the Association contributed the following: forget her smile even though she suffered from arthritis. Over the years, Mary Lou was seldom seen without her Dave Heckel wrote: Mary Lou Stover was appointed as the favorite companion, her beloved dog. I have never heard Editor of The Gristmill starting with issue # 14 in any negative comments about Mary Lou even when she December 1978 and edited 21 issues before stepping would walk by you with a prize tool you were hoping to down in December 1983. She began another term with buy. It is the contributions by people like Mary Lou that issue # 74 in March 1994 and edited 43 issues until her have made the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association the final retirement with issue # 116 in September 2004. Mary quality organization it is. Mary Lou was not only a wonder­ Lou began the change from the manila colored issues to ful person but also one great gal who is going to be dear­ the glossy paper three-column look of the magazine. Mary ly missed by all of her family, friends and M-WTCA. Lou also instituted the color pages and cover that we know today. Along with the help of Carol Lomax, the style Starting in February 2010, the official title for the Area B and shape of the magazine changed. Her leadership in the St. Francis, WI meet will be, "The Mary Lou Stover & Carol transformation of The Gristmill and her involvement with Lomax Memorial Tool Meet." the Executive Committee was an example for all members Eric M. Peterson, MD offers these memories. I have been to follow. She was always a quiet, behind the scenes mem­ a M-WTCA member since 1969 and as such have been a ber who wanted our organization to prosper. For that spe­ friend of Mary Lou's for many years. At each meeting that cial ability, Mary Lou was presented with the Marion we attended over the years, Mary Lou always arranged a Henley Award in September 1995. After serving 15 years small dinner party. We corresponded several times a and editing 64 issues as The Gristmill Editor, she decided week, and at her request, I frequently contributed articles to retire from that position. to The Gristmill. So I have enjoyed a long friendship with "I will always remember Mary Lou for her desire to make her. "Neville and I have lost a friend of many years. Mary The Gristmill the best tool collecting publication Lou was a real lady. Despite her severe, painful and around," remembers Dave Heckel Past-President and chronic illness, never once did I ever hear her complain. Past-Editor. She impressed upon me when I took over the She faced her problem head on and made the best of it. It position, "That M-WTCAM-WTCA.ORG comes first." Her knowledge and did not limit her in spirit or interests. Mary Lou was grasp of the history of M-WTCA always was amazing, always willing to give of her professional help and she along with her ability to get along with everyone. truly loved M-WTCA and its members. Many of us will miss her a great deal. Through her efforts she always Gary Kane remembers his dear friend with these words. I made our lives a bit more pleasant." can not begin to cover in a few words, all that Mary Lou has contributed to the M-WTCA organization over the Harriot Baker remembers Mary Lou as a member of the years or due justice to the woman so many of us consid­ Mount Vernon Committee which then becan1e Mid-West ered a great friend. As most of the M-WTCA members Preservation & Education Committee. Mary Lou never know, Mary Lou was the editor of The Gristmill for years. missed a meeting that I know of and certainly as long as I She, along with her good friend Carol Lomax, ran the Area have been on the Committee. Mary Lou contributed great­ B St. Francis, WI meet for years and Mary Lou continued ly to the Committee. Two things I remember: I had no idea to run the meet after Carol's death. When I took over oper- what kind of tools she liked or if she did at all, I just

June 2009 39 accepted her and loved her as editor of The Gristmill. Bob and Kathy Valich had this to say. We are deeply sad­ Then one day at one of our meetings at St. Charles, I saw dened to hear the news that Mary Lou is no longer with us. this little lady with the biggest smile I ever saw, coming Kathy has always said that Mary Lou was ( and still towards me with a marvelous plow plane and knew then, remains) her idol. She admired the excellent job that Mary she was in heaven. Two years ago she got herself a riding Lou did as editor of The Gristmill. We will both miss see­ lawnmower. She loved running that machine. She told me ing Mary Lou at the tool meetings. She was definitely an how great it was just about every time I saw her. asset to M-WTCA. John and Janet Wells shared this: Mary Lou was a wonder­ Willie Royal wanted everyone to know that for many long ful person, a very good friend, and a terrific supporter of years Mary Lou was the spike that held it all together. She M-WTCA. We are deeply saddened at her unexpected was dedicated to MWTCA and demonstrated loyalty and passing. Mary Lou was a very good friend and it is very determination in her every effort regarding MWTCA. She hard to lose her. I remember working with her when she was a class act and was, to some degree my crutch during was the editor of The Gristmill. Everyone loved her. She my tenure as President. She was smart, gifted, and dedi­ will be greatly missed. cated to whatever task was at hand. MWTCA and all of us that had the pleasure to have known Mary Lou, have lost Ed Hobbs writes: Mary Lou was a wonderful friend to any­ a leader and a friend. one she met and an inspiration to all in her service and dedication to M-WTCA. It goes without saying that she will be greatly missed.

William S. Phillips William S. "Bill" Phillips 84, of New Bill spent the last 33 years enjoying the collecting and sell­ Tripoli, Pennsylvania passed away ing of antique tools and conversing with other tool enthu­ March 18, 2009 at his home. Bill and siasts. Although not a current member of Mid-West Tool his wife Mary celebrated 64 years of Collectors Association, Bill joined the group early on, hav­ marriage this past November. He was ing a member number of 801. He was honored to have had a self-employed contractor in Lehigh a tool display in the Smithsonian Institute. and Berks counties, retiring in 1987. Bill and Mary owned and operated W.S. Phillips Hardware & Housewares for 50 years.

Theodore Sawle

Theodore Sawle, Hyde's MillM-WTCA.ORG, 103 years more pleasure than showing off this incredible collection in old, passed away January 26, 2009. Ted his museum. He could recite when, where, and how much was a miller, craftsman , carpenter , he paid for each piece along with a little story on how he box maker, inventor, farmer and artist. acquired it and what the items purpose. Ted was a lifelong He was an avid collector and was so M-WTCA member with a very low 893 member number. proud of his collections. He spent his Ted is survived by his 8 children, 27 grandchildren, 49 life amassing woodworking tools, great grandchildren and 15 great great grandchildren. He milling equipment and stones, nautical equipment , naviga­ never met a baby he did not want to hold or a child that he tional guides and blacksmithing tools. Nothing gave him did not give a dollar.

40 The Gristmill M-WTCA Auxiliary

Decatur, IL Meet and Greet by Judi Heckel

The Decatur "Meet and Greet" session was another winning presentation high­ lighting the creativity of our members. Kathy Vogt, an already recognized "shopping expert" from a previous display, shared a recent purchase of a lovely china bowl. Ketra Wanamaker wore some magnifi­ cent jewelry examples that she herself designed and created. Karen Fulton shared some of her memorable paintings that she has used to impress us at previous meetings. These recent fessed to having difficulty sitting without a project in her paintings had a tobacco theme. Sue Page's talent with hands at all times. Jackie Young awed the entire crowd making doll clothes is much in demand. She shared many with her "bead birds" and other small ornamental cre­ examples of the amazing and intricate styles she creates ations made of beads. Jackie often enters "challenges" with antique laces and hankies, as well as her delicate that appear on the Internet, and her resulting beadworks and tiny stitches. Linda Hammontree completed a stun­ are a joy to behold. ning quilt with a gar­ The M-WTCA creativity "gene" extends to some family den of colors in each members too. Helen Watkins shared a prize-winning knit­ block. Linda con- ted sweater made by her daughter. The yam that was used was an amazing blend of colors, and the resulting sweater was a one-of-a­ kind wonder. Susan Witzel shared a newspaper article about the fishing lures of one of her noteworthy grandchildren. In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, mem­ bers who have had personal experi­ ences with that disease were recog­ M-WTCA.ORGnized. Our small group of 45 pro- duced 11 members touched by cancer, with one mem­ ber being cancer-free for over 35 years. This session was another example of the family warmth that blossoms when the ladies participate in the women's sessions. Be sure to join us at the next meeting.

June 2009 41 On The Other Side Of The Bed by Ka thleen Holmes

There were a number of wives sitting around a table at the basement. We should salute those who take the time to recent tool show in Medina, Minn. We were watching the prepare their displays and infom1 us. busy trading going on. The Medina show is an especially I do so enjoy watching the crowd as they work their way good one. Cecil enjoys the large number of displays as around the room. There are all types of folks who flock to well as the well stocked trade tables. the tables and once again, I am convinced that God had a It was fun when one of the husbands would come to sense of humor when He created "man". where we were all sitting, to leave a treasure he has found Cecil has developed an interest in wrenches and is now while searching the wares of the various salesman. Often, searching for new "old" wrenches to add to his growing as he dropped off his buy, he would answer questions collection. I did tell him that I did not mind if he collect­ from not only his wife but from some of the rest of us as ed wrenches but I would put my foot down if he collected to what the item was and its function. The husband was "wenches"!!! always quite generous to inform us. When we got home from the tool show, Cecil went down The displays at this show were among the finest I have to his collection, adding the new purchases to the displays seen. There were single item tool displays with patent he has there. Later, as we retired, he shared his delight information and working descriptions of tool application with a particular find, and then turned over On The Other as well as other multi-tool displays. Cecil will often take a Side Of The Bed snuggling contently, once again thinking plane display. He particularly enjoys collecting planes about his new treasures. from different manufacturers as well as for different appli­ cations. He has built "rounders" to display these in our

Ways & Means by Miria m Seevers

According to the list of M-WTCA Area Meetings printed in meet, the presence of this great organization would reach the Gristmill, there are ten different areas that attract even further. members to their various events. Most of those area Ladies, plan on the book sales at the upcoming National attendees do not, for whatever reason, go to the National Meetings. Let us fill our tables! This is an easy and enjoy­ Meetings. able way to add to our coffers. Just remember, the books If someone from these areas would contact me and that remain will be given to local charities. arrange for a few M-WTCAM-WTCA.ORG pins to be sent out before their

Auxiliary Officers President Lynne McCalla All materials for The Women's Auxiliary Pages should be sent to: Vice President Judi Heckel Bill Kolm, Editor, The Gristmill Secretary Jane Giese 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623 Treasurer Barb Slasinski [email protected]

42 The Gristmill Winchester Keen K'Uller

GA VIN BROS AUCTION LARGE TWO DAY PLANE/TOOL AUCTION Garry Rickard Estate LOCATION: Sauk County Fairgrounds, Baraboo, WI. On the East edge of Baraboo on Highway 33. Baraboo is 40 miles Northwest of Madison, WI. DATES: Friday, July 17 & Saturday, July 18 TIME: 9:00 AM each day LUNCH: Country Gals Note: Garry collected tools for 35+ years and his extensive collection is being sold to settle his estate. There will be 1200+ lots. Pictures & more complete list @ www.gavinbros.com PLANES: including Winchester, Keen Kotter, Stanley, Bailey, A. Howland, John Moseley, Sandusky Tool Co, Sargent & Co, Miller Falls, Auburn Tool Co, Siegley, Chaplin's, OVB etc. WINCHESTER: 150+ items including planes, levels, hatchets, axes, saws, pliers, wrenches, ice skates, roller skates, oil can, hammers, etc. KEEN KUTTER: 200+ items including planes, levels, scissors, wrenches, hatchets, axes, saws, hammers, etc. Winchester COLLECTABLE TOOLS: Planes, draw shaves, saws, levels, hatchets, wrenches, braces, bits, rules etc. TERMS: Cash, MasterCard or Visa w/3 % convenience charge. Any checks must be accompanied by irrevocable letter of credit addressed to Gavin Bros Auctioneers LLC. Sales Tax Applies. GA VIN BROS AUCTIONEERS LLC l -.;· (Wisconsin Registered Auction Company #274) Reedsburg, WI Baraboo, WI (608)-524-6416 (608)-356-9437 (.8 . M-WTCA.ORGwww.gavinbros.com

Winchester

KeenKutter

June 2009 43 The Time Machine A Fantasy from Eighteenth Century Colonial America by David V. Englund

The thought of H.G.Well's time machine, and are suspicious that newcomers may be financially irre­ going back in history is irresistible to me. I sponsible. I'm lucky that I remembered to bring some old style pounds, shillings and pence. Francis himself opens dream about it and ponder the opportunities the door, and I attempt to explain why I am there. to watch and ask questions of my favorite Fortunately he is very polite and hospitable, and invites period in American Colonial history. So me in out of the cold wind. I an1 introduced to his new wife Mary, and three of the children from his first mar­ strap me in, get the wheels turning and pull riage: Mary, Mehitable and their younger brother John. the lever - I'm going for a visit with Francis The other daughter, Elizabeth is staying with relatives and Nicholson, planemaker in 1730's Wrentham, using their loom right now. These children are now in their twenty's and are busy helping with the chores. A Massachusetts. young black lad nan1ed Cesar is called in from the shop to Friday - meeting the Nicholsons greet me, then he goes back out with John to finish the day's work. The quick journey lands me in the quiet farming commu­ nity of Wrentham, and I have to ask where I can find Mr. I explain that I have come a long distance to see how he Nicholson. The first person I talk to points out the makes the wooden planes that he sells Nicholson house right on the main dirt road and not far throughout the neighboring towns. I try to discuss how from the Meeting House at the Common. It is a saltbox interested I am in woodworking, but when they still look house that looks like most of the neighbors, with a central puzzled, I take out my English money and offer to pay for door, several windows on the front, and a central chim­ room and board while I visit for a week. Francis and wife ney. A lean-to addition has been added on the back to Mary look at each other and agree that I can stay, but they house his son and young slave. Their upstairs was given will take no money. I am told there is no extra bed and I over to the domain of the three daughters, a no-man's­ will have to sleep on a temporary mattress stuffed with land, while the parents sleep in the far comer of the large straw next to the fireplace. That's fine with me. I'm so kitchen behind a pull curtain for some small bit of priva­ excited I can hardly talk. But we do talk, and in the short cy. Just a few steps from the rear door is the workshop time before supper, Francis shares with me the extraordi­ building where the planes are made. Further back on the nary amount of sadness he has been through in the last 10 acre property is a small barn and a few other out-build­ few years, with so many deaths in the family since moving ings. It's a very long, narrow lot with the back end of the to start anew here in Wrentham. Tears come to his eyes property bordering on a large lake, very nice in the hot as he talks about losing his 14 year old daughter Abigail summertime. But now, winter is not quite over and and how much he misses her. He goes on to tell me about although it is sunny, there are still a couple inches of snow his dream to increase the number and types of planes he on the ground. It's still cold. offers for sale, and how he hopes to be able to apprentice a couple more promising lads to expand the planemaking business. "That's why I needed to purchase Cesar Chelor, almost all my children turned out to be girls." About then the others come in and get cleaned up for sup­ per. An extra pewter plate is put out on the long trestle M-WTCA.ORGtable and I take my place on the bench with the family. Prayers are very lengthy before the supper meal of com bread and stew are allowed to be eaten. It turned out to be what I thought was a bedtime snack of leftovers, until I found out that dinner, the mid-day meal, is the main meal of the day. The children have a lot of questions to ask me and I have to be careful not to mention that I'm from a different age and come from Seattle. I full well know they wouldn't be able to accept my answers if I told them that, and not in their wildest dreams would they believe the prices I have paid for Nicholson and Chelor planes. I do tell them I have a lot of wooden tools at home and I discuss all the details I'm a bit nervous as I walk up to the door. Strangers are of the various types to draw out the conversation until sup­ not always welcome in small towns where townspeople per is over and it is getting close to bedtime.

44 The Gristmill Saturday - making Moulding planes edge chipping. Next he clamps one piece into a homemade planing fixture. Once he runs his bench plane with its spe­ I am awakened in the early morning by the sounds of wife cially shaped cutter back and forth over the fixture until it Mary serving breakfast, which turns out to be porridge, will cut no further, he knocks out the clamp and removes the which has been cooking slowly all night over embers in stock, explaining to me how this device the fireplace. There was the choice of ale or cider. Today makes the step cut with its small shoul­ I am being allowed to observe the activities out in the der and radius into the body of the workshop, and I am so excited I can hardly wait. planes. Then he puts in the next piece As we go out to the shop, I can't help notice how small the and invites me to try my hand at it. I'm space is for their plane making activity. The far end of the surprised at how easy it goes, and I real­ shop has a very small forge with a narrow brick chimney, ize it requires no knowledge of measur­ and there are two windows on each side of the room. On ing to work this way. Another simple the side facing the sun is a long workbench attached to the fixture that looks like a shallow box is wall. It is too low for a person of my height, but proper for used for sizing the width. them. A blacksmith's style metal leg vise is attached to the Francis is a small, English appearing bench. Two other typical English style workbenches stand man, and he has an engaging, but seri­ in the middle of the room, one for John and one for Cesar, ous personality. He is working at the and I recognize a hand turned grindstone in the comer. bench next to the window, with the There are all sorts of wooden hand tools, especially rows best light, and where all the floats and of "mother" planes and chisels against the wall, and saws chisels are lined up in holders on the and other tools hanging from pegs in the posts and beams wall. Also, there are various shaped metal cutting files shipped from England for all the metal work neces­ sary in plane making. I soon find out that he only does the highly skilled jobs, those that insure the plane will cut properly, without chatter or clog­ ging. As I watch, he quickly takes a wooden pattern and scribes lines on a group of nearly finished moulders, then carefully saws out the side escapement where the blade will sit. There are jigs for everything, including a large assortment of simple marking gages with fixed pins for scribing lay- F ~NJCHOLSON LIVING IN WREN THAM, Astragal Moulder of the single room building. Actually, it's quite a bit like I suspected it would be, no surprises from the pictures I had seen of early shops of England. Even the attic of the work­ shop is similar, stocked M-WTCA.ORGwith split bolts of yellow birch and roughed out boards in their last stages of drying. This is what they call their seasoned timber. Against the far wall are piles of finished planes ready for sale in the Spring. Both John and Cesar start by planing one flat surface and one square edge on these rough split, pie shaped pieces of birch, then Cesar cuts these pieces to ten inch rough length in the miter box. Next he dresses the ends on the shooting board until they are smooth as glass. The shooting board is Above: The metal working bench with i ts leg vice is where blades and a home made device that has a plane sliding on its side with other metal parts are f i led to shape. a skewed blade that cleanly slices off end grain. The ends were always done first as planing end grain is likely to cause Right: A Nicholson "mo ther plane" cuts the moulding on the bead plane below.

June 2009 45 out lines onto the various types of planes. Francis then I remember from history that in a few years she will marry drills a hole through the upper part of the throat and starts Samuel Man, the son of Wrentham's first minister. All of enlarging the hole with various narrow chisels until the spe­ us eat the sausages, cheese and vegetables, and there is cial planemaker's float will just fit in and slice out the last hot cider to drink which I particularly enjoy. material ready for the wedge. Francis is very helpful as he Then it's back to work. It is now the time of day for Cesar works, explaining to me what he doing and why this part of to sweep up all the shavings and clean up the benches, the job requires such special care. while the other two continue work. Young Cesar does The boys take over now to cut the moulding with the most of the unskilled work, although Francis tells me that "mother plane", which is a special plane made to the he thinks Cesar will one day be capable of running the reverse shape of the finished moulding plane. There are a whole shop. He already is teaching Chelor to read and pile of wooden wedges they have made up in advance, and write. I am beginning to realize that while Cesar Chelor is their angle corresponds with the angle of the planemak­ indeed a slave, he is treated as a member of the fanuly and er's float. These wedges are ready to use, except for plan­ respected for his natural ability to work with the tools. ing the thickness to exactly match the slot in the plane. Son John can already do most of the skilled operations The wider, complex moulders require thicker wedges. and is over halfway through his apprenticeship. Under the bench is a box of plane iron blanks made up by Now that I've seen a group of moulders being made, I realize Samuel Dearing, the town blacksmith, and I'm told there is how fast and easy it is. The special fixtures they have built more to these "blanks" then it appears. It takes careful allow the planes to be made efficiently, without measuring, examination to see where the blacksmith has hammer and the "mother planes" rapidly complete the various mould­ welded a piece of carbon steel onto the wrought iron body ing shapes. Still, I realized I had not seen them produce the of the blade. This steel tip can be hardened to hold an edge, more complex planes, like the plows. Those required more but the wrought iron cannot be hardened. After setting the iron, and had parts that were riveted together. blade to the plane Francis scribes the moulding shape onto By nightfall, we are all tired and hungry. Francis tells me the metal, then takes it to the vice and files it to shape, that tomorrow is Sunday, and there will be no work. "You including the proper cutting angle which he does by eye. know," he says, "one of the reasons I moved to Wrentham All of this is completed very quickly, was because of Reverend Messinger at First Church. A but I know I'm watching the skill couple years ago, 30 new members joined the church and and experience of the master. 75 members were baptized". It was a period of religious Finally, when several blades are revival, which history called, "The Great Awakening." ready, they are heated to cherry red Sunday - at the Meeting House and quenched in a bucket of water. Then they are tempered by reheat­ 1730s church services were no small affair. I was invited to ing to a straw color, and quickly sit with Francis and the boys on the men's side of the aisle. quenched again, before the steel We had to sit on the wooden pew that had been assigned to can soften any further. The temper­ Francis Nicholson by the church committee. Since the ing process softens the steel to the building was not heated, the women used foot warmers point where it is able to be cut with filled with hot coals, but the men just toughed it out. The a file. Since the blades are not pulpit was raised several steps with a hollow sounding interchangeable, he had marked them with identifying roman numerals,M-WTCA.ORG and then Francis touched-up the sharpness and final fit so they would prop­ erly line up with the matching plane bottom. This group of moulders is complete now, except for the details of the chamfers, the "lambs- tongue" gouge cuts, stamping their maker's imprint and applying a linseed oil finish. After a few days, when the finish was completely dry, Cesar would rub on a second coat and wipe it nearly dry with an old rag. By mid-day, Mary and Mehitable have prepared a big farm dinner and we all go inside the house to have our main meal of the day. As Mehitable helps serve our meal, I

know she is a wonderful Christian young woman, because ~eeond llfeetmghoure, orra 1925 uhr:n used'" a carp,nti ,, rh,,p

46 The Gristmill board above it, and the front two There were entries of payments in pews were reserved for the former meat and produce, cartloads of and present minister's families. firewood, yellow birch timber and The first service was two hours even entries of labor performed. long followed by a one hour break Many entries were for the services for lunch. Hymn singing and Bible of S.Dearing, the town blacksmith, reading filled the first hour fol­ who did a lot of business with lowed by an hour long sermon. Nicholson. All entries were listed under the customer's name, dated Most of the members that came and the amounts listed in pounds, any distance brought a basket of shillings and pence. Unfortunately food, and ate next door at the old I needed months to study all this, Woodcock's noon-house. Since and I only had a few days. One we lived close by, we walked back thing I did pick up was that home and ate some hot beans out Francis Nicholson had sold a lot of the kettle hooked on the fire­ The "Yankee How" invented by Francis Nichoi,son lws of planes since 1728, and he was place crane. And like always, thumbscrews locking both arms and depth stop. very successful. there was com bread. The girls had banked the fire so the coals were still hot, and I appre­ Monday - making the Yankee Plow ciated the opportunity to warm up and get some hot food Francis decided to start a batch of plow planes the next inside me. morning in the shop. He had realized from all my questions Then it was back for the afternoon service, another two about the metal skate and rivets that I should get to see first hours. I could tell it was going to take awhile before I got hand how they built them. Like the moulders, they built the used to this much church in one day. After church Francis plows in a small production run. Today, they were starting introduced me to his friends and members of the important with two of the split bolts of yellow birch, enough timber to Ware family, one of the founding families of the town, who make six plow planes. John told me they could always sell were relatives of his wife. They were all curious about their plows pretty quickly, as the joiners and housewrights what I was doing here, and I told everybody I was here to didn't want to take the considerable time required to make learn how planes are made. Little did they know about all their own. Customers now wanted the thumbscrew lock the other things I wanted to find out - this was my oppor­ arm models with depth stop. Those required three thumb­ tunity to fill in all the missing Nicholson research. screws. "We used to make the wedge-arm models with only one thumbscrew on the depth stop," John told me, "then One thing I was especially interested in was Nicholson's dad got the idea of also using thumbscrews on the arn1S." daybook. That evening, I just came right out and asked him about it. Francis went to the chest by the kitchen Making the plane body itself was close to the same as the table and brought it back for me to look at. I nearly fell moulders, but its step cut was on the lower side and over as I had been looking for it so many years, and here it designed so the large radius would flow smoothly against the was, right in my own hands. The book was about the same surface of the skate. Francis started by using a pattern to as others I had seen, 6 by 8 inches with a handsewn leather scribe out the 1/8" thick iron skate plates that had come from cover. But the handwriting was neatly done and every­ the blacksmith. Besides filing the proper outlines on the two thing was orderly in arrangement, and without later addi­ skate plates, he filed the front edge of the rear plate to the 60 tions that had been carelessly forgotten, or crossed out in degree angle that fits into the back of the blade. This groove, error. I could see whyM-WTCA.ORG he was going to be elected town forged into the back of the plow blades, supports the cutting clerk for so many years, this was the work of an accountant. He explained that he regular­ ly inked in entries after supper, by candle light. I knew I couldn't take it back with me, and yet it contained thousands of entries over a period of the four years he had been selling planes. Right in front of me was every cus­ tomer that he had sold to, and the numbers and types of planes they bought, and what they paid for them. There were people living The two sections of the iron skate are hammered out to 1/8" thick and riveted through right here in Wrentham that still were paying lhe lower body. Nole the front edge is filed to a 60 degree angle thatfils into the slot on off sets of planes they had bought a year ago. lhe back of the blade.

June 2009 47 edge fumly enough to stop chatter. Next, the four holes in bottom, and while the pieces were held firmly together the skate had to be drilled and countersunk for the rivets. they were each riveted over at the top square washer. The For each plow plane, the blacksmith made a set of two skate riveting resulted in the arms and fence being pulled tight­ blanks, six rivets and two square washers, plus a set of three ly together. blades. I learned there was a lot more metalworking then I The rest was rather normal, finishing the chan1fers, thought in a wooden planemaking shop. installing the depth stop and thumbscrews, and not to for­ The boys had been roughing out the fence and two arms. get to apply the F~NICHOLSON and LIVING* IN WREN­ The arms were marked using a pattern, and sawn out, then THAM imprints. But as the boys were doing the finish the large 2-1/4" radius on the end was finish cut with their work, Francis still was sharpening a set of three blades round bottom shave. The angle shaped fence, with its (1/8 11 to 1/4") that were sold with the plow. These snecked attractive profile, was made by first planing both sides of blades were much thicker at the bottom, and had a long the angle to 1/2" thick. Then they decorated both edges curve on the underside surface. There were a lot of steps with a quarter rounding plane, and finished the inside cor­ to making a plow, and it required a lot of expensive metal, ner cove with a 5/16" rounding plane. so it was their most expensive plane. Along with his normal throat cutting duties, Francis had been That evening, Francis told me he had been buying and sell­ laying out and chiseling the narrow, through mortise for the ing some parcels of land. Then he went on to mention that depth stop, the two square holes for the arms, and drilling and his eventual goal with land transactions was to put togeth­ tapping the holes for the thumbscrews. They had a basket er a farm south of town where he could spend his elderly full of unfinished thumbscrews from their neighbor with a years. "It is possible to borrow Bills of Credit from the lathe, and the boys finished up 18 of them with a screwbox town that I could use to buy property, but I'm still thinking and gouge. They told me they always put the threads on first, about it." Then he told me how the town had chosen him as the ones with tom threads had to be thrown away. Town Constable, but he had refused and had to pay a five pound fine. "That's a lot of money, but being a constable There were two main assemblies on a plow plane, riveting does not fit my personality. I would be better at a job with the skate to the body, and riveting the fence to the arms. the church, like Tithing Man." I sat repressing a smile, John and Cesar started the first assembly by holding the because I knew he would eventually become one of the two skate tight against the wood body and drilling through one Deacons for life at the Congregational Church of of the pre-drilled holes in the skate. They were careful to Wrentham. Conversation over, early to bed - early to rise. ease up on the pressure as the drill broke through the far side, so the wood wouldn't split out. The first rivet was put Tuesday - trip to Whiting's Grist Mill in place and hammered just enough to stick it in place. The next day was Tuesday, and Mary has prepared johnny Then the second hole would be drilled, etc, until all four cakes. Mehitable had already been to the barn and milked rivets were snug. Lastly, all four rivets would be ham­ the cow, and we had a pail of fresh milk along with our mered down to fill the countersinks and bring everything breakfast. While still at the table, Francis said to me, snug and flush. Only then were the rivet ends filed flush "Mary says we are low on com with the surface of the skate. meal, so do you want to come The second assembly also with me to the corn mill?" Of involved riveting. When the course I did, and after loading arms were completed, they the horse cart with sacks of were predrilled to be a snug fit shelled com, we took the road for the rivets, slid all the M-WTCA.ORGway that led to the area between into the body and locked into the ponds, over to Whiting's place with the thumbscrews. Mill. This mill had already Now the fence, with its shal­ been here for many years and low dados to cradle the arms, was old and weathered. But was held up to confirm the what an interesting place, the placement, and the rivet holes swift stream coming out of the drilled on through the fence. Mill Pond had more than Next, they assembled the arms enough power to handle both to the fence, which required a the sawmill and the gristmill. long rivet on each arm. These The fence assembly: long rivets go up through the fence As we stood on the ramp by rivets were pushed up from the and arms, then they are riveted over at the square wash­ the water wheel, there was er on top of each arm.

48 The Gristmill water flying around in bolts about three years ago, and they had been drying that the air, and splashing, whole time. "In fact, we need to bring an ox sled of birch and the wheel was from our woodlot down to the shop, or before long, there moaning on its old won't be any snow left on the ground." John told me they wooden axle. Three sawed the tree into three foot lengths and split them into other men there were pie-shaped bolts right in the woods. "If the birch will not listening to a peddler split straight we leave it right there to be collected for fire­ who had stopped to wood. When we get our load home, we stack them under pass on the latest news a tree and let them dry slowly for a few months, then we from towns along the move them into the shop attic for a year or more, depend­ Lower Post Road. One ing on the thickness." section on the outside wall of the mill was used to post broadsides and notices. Inside the grist mill was fascinating too, and we watched the large revolving stones as the miller ground our com, and sacked up the meal for us to load back into the cart. The miller was paid by taking a one-sixteenth percentage of our meal, and we set for home. We were back in time for dinner and the boys unloaded the cart and unhitched the horse. John and Cesar had FNicholson crown moulder with creased top on tote. 13 inch­ been working on the plow planes, and said they expected es long by 4-114 inches wide. to have them done by suppertime. It turned out one of the neighbors had butchered a hog yesterday, and brought The dramatic flair of the tote, capped off by the gutsy wedge makes the crown a piece of art slabs of pork to several of the nearby families. It would keep for some tin1e out in the shed during this cold weath­ "It takes a four and a quarter width to hold a three and one er. Francis made a notation in his daybook: 12 pounds of eighth blade", John told me as he started surfacing the pork----- 0 - 8 - 0. Francis keeps a couple hogs also, and wide side with his bench plane. Like the moulders, the when he butchers, he will take slabs to the neighbors. next step was to rough saw the length in the miter box, They all trade off during the year, and this way, the meat and trim the ends at the can all be used up before any of it spoils. The boiled pork shooting board. As John dinner that day with potatoes and turnips was the best continued squaring the meal so far since I had been at the Nicholson's. stock down to size, Cesar That evening after supper, Francis asked, "you told us you was starting on the large could only stay a week, is there anything else you would wedges. Once he planed like to see us make out in the shop?" I told him it would the board to 5/8" thick, he M-WTCA.ORGcut off two wedges to be interesting to see him make a crown moulder. "Well all right," he replied, "We don't have call for too many of the rough length, and clamped crowns, but we'll turn out a couple." Time was running one of them in the fixture out on my stay, and I still had hardly looked at his day­ that made the main angle book Frustrating. cut, the one that matched the angle on the planemak­ Wednesday - Making Crown Moulders er's float. Then a pattern The next morning's work started with Cesar handing was used to scribe for chis­ down one of the larger bolts of yellow birch from the shop eling the cheeks, the small attic. This wider piece was from closer to the bark or out­ inside angle cut and other side of the tree. They told me they had cut and split these detail at the lower end of

June 2009 49 the wedge. The final job on the wedge was to scribe the with a V-cutter to cut not only the V-groove between the curve and use a small bow saw to rough cut the upper end ogees, but also a V-groove in the center of the radius to shape. Finally, the top curve was finished with a chis­ which acted as a guide for his 7/8" round plane. Here was el. To get ready for the moulding, the bottoms of the two one of the tricks of the trade, instead of using a fence to crowns were planed down 1/4", but leaving a 3/8" wide guide his rounding plane, he used a groove. Once he cut projection for the integral side fence. the depth stop on the side opposite the fence, he was able to use his 7/8" hollow moulder and blend the wide ogee Now the first body section was turned over to Francis, (made from both hollow and round) into an S-curve. The who had been rounding the tops of the wide iron blades smaller ogee on the fence side was done the same way. supplied by the blacksmith. The crown moulder was It's easy once you have seen it done, but nearly impossi­ designed to have the blade installed from the bottom, so ble if you don't know how to do it. they were made with a slight taper. Francis started scrib­ ing on the layout lines for the mouth opening and the Cesar had been finishing up shaping the radii on the totes throat including the large top opening for chip removal. with a handlemaker's drawknife, followed by a rasp. He used a gouge and mallet to remove the waste from the Once the tote mortise was chiseled out, it only took one throat and top escapement, then used his largest plane­ T-headed nail to secure the tote to the body. The design maker's float to get the correct wedge angle. It looked of the tote with its dramatic flair and sweeping curves, simple as he started paring the bed by leaning his shoul­ capped off by the tall, gutsy wedge made the crown moul­ der on the wide "bedding" chisel, and cutting each stroke der a piece of art. the full length of the bed. But I knew it wasn't easy, and Again, fitting and sharpening the blade required the skill this was an important part to the planes operation. Every of the master. It was done exactly like the blades in the once in awhile, he moulders, except a much more complex job. As the boys would check the finished up the details and applied the Nicholson stamp, it angle with his special was now ready for a coat of linseed oil. I had seen the template. Francis making of a crown moulder and it was beautiful. But used a pair of right tomorrow was my last day, and I still had not spent any and left skewed chis­ time with that all-important Day Book. els when paring the cheeks, and when he Thursday - a trip to the farm had the first one Thursday I was awakened at dawn as the women cooked done, I inspected it over the hearth, and while we were eating our cornmeal and felt the chisel mush with molasses, Francis asked what I would like to cuts that were form­ see today. I mentioned it might be interesting to see ing the cheeks and where he was planning to buy his farm. "That's a good surfaces that held the idea", he said, "the boys have plenty of work to keep them blade and wedge. busy and don't need me around." The daughters said they "How did he do would pack that?" I asked myself. us some food They were perfect. to take along, Before the tote was and the boys installed, it was time said they M-WTCA.ORGto cut the wide would hitch moulding, what they up the cart. called an Ogee­ So once the Above: the Ogee-Reverse Ogee Reverse Ogee crown. sun had risen Crown moulding is made with two pairs of hollows and rounds, and a John explained he enough to see V-cutting plow plane. could just cut the well, Francis moulding with their and I headed mother plane, but I should also know how to make any down between the elm trees that lined South Street, and wide moulding using hollows and rounds. He started by toward Wampum Comer. As we rode along, Francis scribing a depth line on each end, then marked the center brought up the subject again about his desire to buy line for the cut with his 7/8" round plane, and the V-cut enough adjoining properties to put together about 100 between the ogees. Then John used a special plow plane acres. "That's about the right amount in this area for one

50 The Gristmill family to be able to handle," he told me. I asked him who The afternoon passed quickly and it was time for supper. owned the property he was considering and he told me After the meal and all the goodbys, Francis walked me out James Nutting owned two parcels totaling 78 acres. to the street, and handed me a package as I started walk­ Then Francis mentioned another property just north of ing toward where I had hid the time machine. "I know you Nutting's, a farm with a house and barn, which if pur­ wanted to study my Day Book more, so I have copied into chased could provide them with a home. Another few this new book all the business transactions since 1728 acres was needed from an adjoining woodlot to com­ when we started selling planes. But you have to promise plete the 100 acres. you won't show it to anyone or tell about it." We came to Wampum Corner where the road forked and continued to the left along South Street. Francis said it was less than two miles further. I asked if he thought we should talk with James Nutting while we were down here, and Francis thought we would find him working out on his land. "When James is not busy working as a lock­ smith, he is down here taking care of his livestock," Francis said as we rode through a short valley between tree covered hills. Once out of the valley, we continued past a long, curved hill on the left, and I saw the land was hilly, with outcropping of large grey and brownish-orange rock Nutting's two parcels of land were located on both sides of South Street, and once we got close enough, we found James with no trouble. Francis introduced me and they started talking more about Nicholson buying his property. Apparently the negotiations had been going on for awhile, and Nutting was anxious to sell. Finally, I asked Mr. Nutting if he would consider taking Bills of Credit for his property, but he hesitated a bit saying that they were devaluing over time. Then I asked what he was going to do with the money. He said he had a place picked out up in Medfield where his children now lived. "Well, James," I said, "if you spent the Bills of Credit quickly they wouldn't have a chance to lose value, would they?" He said it might work, but he wanted to check into it some more. Francis was looking excited and beginning to catch on that this could be the answer. We looked around the area some more, headed south and saw the Snetchecunit Meadow, then stopped by a creek to water the horse, eat our cheese and cornbread, and now it was time to head for home. Once back in Wrentham, I told Francis and his wife that I must leave now. "Oh, M-WTCA.ORGyou must stay for supper before you go," she insisted. So I agreed and left them in the This story is based on facts known about Francis house while I went out to talk more with John and Cesar. Nicholson and eighteenth century life in Colonial We discussed planemaking and how they sold them. "A Massachusetts. lot of people have been moving into this whole area. and most of our planes are purchased by housewrights and Thanks to Robert Baker of York, Maine for sharing his joiners. They either don't have the time or don't know knowledge on lww early wooden planes were made. how to make them properly". John laughed as he Thanks also to Ted Ingraham, John Whelan and Donald described one of their customers who had tried to make Wing for their helpful suggestions. his own moulders, only to find they clogged up as soon as he tried to use them.

June 2009 51 What's It

The items and their pictures will be identified by the issue Fig. 135-2 from California is approx. 5" in length. Turning number of the Gristmill it first appeared in and their order the thumb-screw opens or closes the jaws. The inner faces listed in that issue. of both jaws have a half round grove running across the width of the jaw. There is a flat metal bar between the Fig. 135-1 jaws, pierced by the thumb screw and riveted so it can not pivot. The bar is flush with the jaws on both sides and the end. Stamped on the devise: Harrison & CO., 81 NEW ST., NEW YORK, Pat. Appld. For. It looks like a handle, but a handle for what?

Fig. 135-3

Fig. 135-3 is a set of tongs with unusual ends. It is approx. 10 1/2" and the jaws barely touch when closed. The ends have "u" shaped brackets that swivel. Items Identified

Fig. 135-4

Fig. 135-1 is approx. 14"tall by 11" wide and is to be clamped on to a table or bench. Something is then clamped in the vise (B). When the handle is pushed toward the clamp, a rod (C) pushes what looks to be the remains of a removable pin or punch (A) forward. The pin passes just above the vise and stops just past the outer vise head. There is a notched 1,170,122 bar (D) upon which the handleM-WTCA.ORG and the C+A assembly ride W.F . Stuart upon and every time the handle is pushed, the whole as­ sembly moves one notch further along. (edited to fit) Fig. 135-2 Fig. 135-4 came from the 2006 Decatur Show: a Weeding tool.

If you have any items needing identification or info on items appearing in the column needing to be identified, please send it in. I do not print the names of responders in either case, so no one will be embarrassed. Also, if you have any changes or recommendations for this column, please send them in. This column is for you, the readers.

52 The Gristmill ANDREWS AUCTION

LOCATED: 6610 US Hwy. 53 1 Eau Claire, Wis. 54701 ( approx. 4 miles south of Eau Claire, Wis. on US Hwy. 53.) Off road parking only. Sale will be held under large tent. SATURDAY JULY 4, 2009 SALE TIME: 10:00 am. Lunch & Restrooms available. ANTIQUE TOOL AUCTION !! An Independence Day Tool & Artifact Exploration of the last 150 years of Wisconsin history representing the dispersal of the collection of Dr. Dave Crowe. The following list is a portion of the items that will be featured at this auction. For pictures, please visit our website: www.jerryandrewsauction.com ANTIQUE TOOLS --- Ornate cast iron level by Davis; Ancient set of wooden shoe tools; B&O 50# railroad level in case; boring machine; wooden brace w/ brass pad; bark spuds; picaroon; log dogs; jam pike; 16' pike & hook; log scales; skidding tongs; crosscut saws; Knapp Stout cant hook; Zenith broad axe; wooden hay fork; grain cradle; cream tester; branding irons; tobacco spear; harpoon hay fork; Cast iron levels incl. Stanley, Davis, Jennings, & Starrett; Planes incl. pre 1896 Stanley 45; circular planes by Stanley & Union; Stanley 5-1/2, 10-1/2, 55, 122, etc., Keen Kutter 5, 120, Ohio 5, brass GTL plane, Franklin patent surfacing plane; horn planes, molding planes, primitive planes, boxes of plane parts; Collections of Hammers, snow knockers, old wrenches, travelers, calipers, buck saws, tools forged from files & rasps; Carpenter tools incl. nail holding hammer, wooden braces, slick, scorps, crooked knife, levels, chamfer knife, bung reamer, frame saws, pad saw, block knife, giant drill bit; Misc. antique tools incl. lg. & sm. ice saws, ice chisels, dynamite auger, fish spears, mammoth bench shears, 13# iron kettle, forge tools, shoemakers' tools, sugar devil & sugar cutters, brush axe, railroad adze, leather tools, primitive knives, bullet mold, bone handled hoof knife, lots of tool literature, other items to numerous to mention. Plan to join us for an interesting historical tool auction! TERMS: CASH, CHECK, VISA, & MC accepted. 3% buyers fee on credit purchases. DR. DAVID CROWE, OWNER Auction conducted by Andrews Auction Service, 6610 Hwy. 53 S, Eau Claire, Wis. 54701. Registered Wisconsin Auctioneer, Jerry Andrews, Lie.# 272. PH: 715-835-0820 or 577-0420 Website: www.jerryandrewsauction.com Email: [email protected]

HYDE'S MILL ANTIQUE TOOL & EQUIPMENT ESTATE SALE eBay June 26th - July 5th 10am-5pm daily by John Walkowiak Hyde 's Mill , 6875 Mill Rd , Ridgeway, WI. For information cal l (608)924-6523 Please consider placing an M-WTCA membership promo­ Cash or Check only. tion in your listing or on your web site. This will be good Ted Sawle's museum for M-WTCA by providing the thousands of eBayer's and and lifetime collection will be offered. online collectors who are looking at old tools and do not Items include: Stanley planeM-WTCA.ORGs, wood planes, moldi ng plane s, know about us, an easy means to make contact with our smoothing planes , rabbit planes, adjustable circular plane, organization. This will also improve your credibility as a scraper planes. Davis inclinometer filigree levels, Davis ruler, seller by showing your affiliation with M-WTCA. It will Ivory rule rs, other levels, brace & bits, books and led gers, be a Win-Win situation for everyone! Just go to lathes, antique band saw, blacksmithing tools, forges, bellows, http://mwtca.org and click on the Selling on eBay bar on fanning mills, grain measure scales, mill ing equipment, adver­ the left side of the homepage. Then simply copy and tising signs, can collection , antique nautical and navi gational eq uipment, padlocks, pocket knives, grist milling items, mill paste the promotion and add it to your listing where it picks, draw knives, assorted boxes and unusual containers, best fits. It is simple and easy and will be a great help in large bear trap, axes , ox yoke, Edison phonog raph with many exposing our great organization to the world. Also, do roll ers an d many more su rprises from this exten sive collection . not forget to include a membership brochure in all the Drill press, dried lumbe r, grinde r, saws, bolts, nails etc. for tools you send out. Please contact me and I will send a everyday carpentry. supply of membership brochures to you. Many of the items are of museum quality.

June 2009 53 Wooden Shoe (Sabot) Hand Carver Offers:

Last Master Carver in U.S.A. Age 83

PRESENTATIONS - hand carving & documentary video TOOLS - usable antiques from Europe LESSONS - preserve these nearly extinct skills EXHIBIT - for museums, historical Societies, etc. VIDEOS - Netherlands best carvers in the 1970s LIBRARY - available for research

~'6J.UUW T. KRAMER Bob Siegel, Jr. (262) 242-1571 day or P.O. Box 8715/Sugar Creek, MO 64( evening at CRAFTS MUSEUM (816) 252-9512 kramrr kramerize.com 11458 N. Laguna Dr. Mequon, Wi. 53092 www.kramerlze com 16-1',lGI-; fJOOK OJ,' lNSTlWC'l'fONS &, USES woodenshoecarver@mil wpc .com nmr,; Wlnf l'URCIIASE,

JimBodeTools.com CASTICO

The Largest Antique «& Tool Website Cast Iron Repairs On Earth by David Belusko Twenty years of experience providing the finest in repairs to cast iron tools, especially planes Buvinu and Selling Color matching of weld to cast iron M-WTCA.ORGundetectable in most repairs. Fine Antique Tools Pricing information available from USA shipping agent: Ph: 518-537-8665 Gale Garrett 1718 Hampton Street Email: Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 256-1718 [email protected] [email protected]

No items lost in transit in 20 years in business including six years of shipping to and from the Philippines.

54 The Gristmill Marketplace Wanted Education Wanted WANTED: Winchester items, tools, Book For Sale-Stanley Tape Measures, WANTED: Spiral auger and broad axe sporting goods or advertising. No the First Forty Years, 2008 edition. Marked N. & B. MEAD CASTINE ME. firearms. Collections or pieces OK. Includes detailed description, years of N. MEAD CASTINE ME. L.J.Tomo Jr. Please advise price and condition. production, patents for all known tape 7111 Waterman Ave., St. Louis, MO. David McDonald, 14211 Kellywood measures of this period, and 70+ pic­ 63130. Home # 314-726-0407, Work # Lane, Houston, TX 77079 (281) 558- tures, 40 in color. $35 plus $5 shipping. 314-721-3911, telephone & fax. 5236 [email protected] George Wanamaker 309-836-6872, email [email protected]. WANTED: Reaping Hook or any other WANTED: Tools of any sort made by tool marked I. Christ. L.J. Torno, Jr. the Sandusky Tool Co. I don't have them all yet! Also, catalogs, advertis­ 7111 Waterman Ave., St. Louis, MO. 63130 Home # 314-726-0407, Work # ing and related material. John Would you like to better be able to use 314-721-3911 telephone & fax. Walkowiak, 3452 Humboldt Ave., the tools you collect? To have your Minneapolis, MN 55408 (612) 824- hands follow the hands of previous 0785. John [email protected] owners in using your tools for the tasks TINSMITHING TOOLS: Brasstop rotary they were created for? Check us out! Fomling tools, circle cutter, bar folder, WINCHESTER collector wants: MIKE SIEMSEN'S SCHOOL OF WOOD­ Bucket seamer, forming stakes, bench "Armax", "Barney & Berry", "Crusader", WORKING www.schoolofwood.com, Plate & more. Otto Ziska, PO Box 325, "Hendryx" items & shotshell boxes Chisago City, MN, 651-257-9166 Chesterland, Ohio, 44026 (440)729-1196 with HARDWARE STORE name. [email protected] Tim Melcher 918.786.8500, email: [email protected] www.thewinchesterstore.com

Com Item Collectors Auction Saturday Advertising Information June 27, 2009, Fairgrounds Lincoln, IL. Combined auction of two advanced ISSUE COPY DEADLINE DISPLAY ADS - RATES Collectors. Hand held shellers, some March January 10 Size Cost Word Limit Rare. Box and floor shellers, planters, June April 10 Full page, 4-color, Shock squeezers, com dryers, signs, September July 10 (when available) $275 900 sacks, Advertising, over 500 items. Visit December October 10 Full page $180 900 www.maskeauction.com for list and Halfpage $105 450 pictures. Call Jin1 Moffet 217-439-7358 CLASSIFIED ADS - RATES Quarter page* $60 225 $ .18 per word - ALL words. Other sizes $9.50 per column inch WINCHESTER collector wants: $3.50 minimum per ad. (1 colunm approx. 2-1/4" wide.) "Arn1ax", "Barney & Berry", "Crusader", 25 word limit. "Hendryx" items & shotshell boxes with NEW POLICY: The Gristmill will no longer accept advertising for a date sensitive HARDWARE STORE name. Tim Melcher event, that will occur during the month of The Gristmill's publication. For example, an 918. 786.8500, email: [email protected] ad for an auction on March 25th that is to be placed in the March issue. www.thewinchesterstore.com * For layout purposes, all quarter page ads must be the following size. 3 1/2" wide X 4 7/8" tall. Alway• buying M-WTCA.ORGAlway■ Selling Typesetting and borders are not included in the page rates. Special artwork will be Pete Niederberger charged at cost. We must have a sketch or rough drawing indicating how you want your Uaed and Antique Toob and ad laid out. Camera Ready ads are accepted at no additional charge. Parts for Same Mail Order Call Me and For your protection and complete satisfaction, ALL ads should be typewritten and dou­ Come to the Shop ble-spaced. If this is not possible, please PRINT legibly. 415-924-8-403 pniederber@aoLcom Payment must accompany ad. Make checks payable to M-WTCA. At this time, advertis­ A-1 LEVEL REPAIR ing will be accepted only from M-WTCA members in good standing. For information and Most brands repaired and restored membership application, contact John Walkowiak or one of the officers whose address is shown on the inside front cover of this publication. Bob and Diane Skogman 18639 • 327\h Ave. Isle, MN 56342-4784 Phone: ~ -320-684-2078 Send all ads to: Bill Kolm 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omal1a, NE 68134-4623, phone E-mail: [email protected] (402) 572-1238, E-Mail [email protected] Website: www.a1levelrepair.com "WE'RE ON THE LEVEL!"

June 2009 55 Fine Tool Journal & $15,9oo s Brown Auction Services '<-1oo A Double-Punch Team

$8800

$22,550

$1540

$10,120

Brown Auction Services and the Fine Tool Journal offer the one-two punch for selling your tools. The two together give you a way of offering your tools to all the collectors and users of old tools. We only group tools after careful thought and inspection. Our auctioneers sell at a steady pace of 100 to 140 lots per hour, giving each item the opportunity to reach its true value. We handle each tool carefully and select where that tool will be sold to ensure for the best possible return. Added to that, we make certain that each lot is accounted for and each consignor receives detailed information with prompt and full payment.

Our marketing includes not only a completely redesigned website with improved online bidding but also extensive mailings as well as ads in many major publications. Last fall's mailing alone went to more than 31,500 addresses. This level of commitment ensures that all who need to know about our sales get the word. These mailings are expensive but they work and that is why weM-WTCA.ORG are still doing them. Don't be fooled; when the smoke clears, we are still the ones doing it right with your interests in mind. We have been committed to old tools and tool collecting, not just making sales, since 1970. l Brown Auction Services Give me a call and let's talk tools. Fine Tool Journal @2w~p 27 Fickett Road Pownal, ME 04069 Clarence Blanchard, Pres. Fine Tool Journal 1 (800) 248-8114 Fax (207) 688-4831 Brown Auction Services www .finetoolj.com It is plane to see who sells the best!