Displays from Erie .... Page 6 I The Stanley Model Shop .... Page 8 John Pritzlaff Hardware Co ..... Page 14 Left Handed Tools .... Page 18 Leaving Their Marks CCC & WPA .. .. Page 23 Keeping Track of Your Tools .... Page 28 I Leander W. Langdon .... Page 32 A Publication of the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association Tool Makers of Middletown, Ct .... Page 38 M-WTCA Auxiliary .... Page 40 Studying, Preserving, and Sharing Knowledge of Tools Collection Spotlight .... Page 46
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Stanley Model Shop Display story begins on page 14
September 2008 No. 132 Chaff From The President, Ed Hobbs At the June semi-annual national meeting really cannot do anything." Just think what would have hap in Erie, PA., we had an opportunity to hear pened if Bill and that small group of individuals had said Bill Holden, one of the founding fathers that back in 1968. It is easy to rationalize not doing some and the first president of M-WTCA, tell us thing but I will say it is easier than you think to get involved about the early days of M-WTCA. Bill's and do things from agreeing to serve as an officer or direc talk at our banquet was a very well done tor, hosting meetings, writing articles, contributing to the mix of humor and history. He told how a endowment, serving on a committee, etc. small group of individuals that shared an This brings me to where we are today and our need for interest in the preservation, study and sharing of knowledge someone to serve as a VP of Meeting Planning and for peo about antique/traditional tools, started an association that ple to serve as meeting managers ( see other articles in this has grown into the largest tool group in the world. issue.) Both of these roles can be very rewarding and are In reflecting on what Bill shared, I cannot help but think not really such a pain in the rear. We have a lot of help and about all that must have happened between the beginning guidance available in a well-defined meeting manual, of M-WTCA in 1968 and today. What I mean is all the time, resources that take care of the mailings, registration and effort, dedication and you name it, that many of our mem other parts of the meetings and support from a number of bers have unselfishly given over the years. This giving or us who have planned and hosted meetings. We also offer perhaps better said, serving of others has to be one of the compensation to cover travel related expenses. If you key cornerstones that makes M-WTCA very successful (including auxiliary members) have any interest or just and more like a big extended family. want to find out more, please contact us as soon as possi ble. I promise that if you try it, you will really like it! Every member of M-WTCA has his or her own talents, skills, resources and abilities. Yes, I think everyone is aware And speaking of our semi-annual national meetings, I hope that we all would like to have more time. It is very easy to everyone is planning to attend the Decatur meeting coming say "Let Joe do it" or "I will do it when I get a chance" or "I continued on page 9
The Gristmill No. 132 September, 2008 Directors Copyright 2008 by Mid-West Tool Collectors Association, Inc. Area A Carl Bilderback, 2009 AreaM All rights reserved. www.mwtca.org Lee Osterbauer, 2008 Bill Marlow, 2009 Ronnie Glover, 2009 Eric Mattson, 2009 Richard Bradshaw, 2010 Editor & Advertising Manager: Bill Kolm Hollis Feeser, 2010 AreaG 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623 John Kesterson, 2008 AreaN Contributing Editor: Nikki Borkovetz AreaB Dennis Eckstein, 2009 Phil Baker, 2008 Contributing Editor: Bob Roger Bob Kloes, 2008 Ray Myers, 2010 Vincent Soukup, 2009 Gary Kane, 2009 William Morgan, 2010 Graphic Design: Tracie Sis Pete Hartmann, 2010 AreaH Mark Hughes, 2008 AreaO The Gristmill is the official publication of the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association, Inc. AreaC Peter Habicht, 2010 Allan Foster, 2008 Published quarterly in March, June, September and December. Michael Slasinski, 2008 Bob Weaver, 2009 The purpose of the association is to promote the preservation, study and Jim Crammond, 2009 Area I Bob Valich, 2010 understanding of ancient tools, in1plements and devices of farm, home, industry and shop Del Galofaro, 2010 David McDonald, 2008 of the pioneers; also, to study the crafts in which these objects were used and the crafts James Goodson, 2010 AreaP men who used them; and to share knowledge and understanding with AreaD Vaughn Simmons, 2008 others, especially where it may benefit restoration, museums and like institutions. Larry Bolhuis, 2008 AreaJ Donald Stark, 2008 Fred Leu, 2009 Rick Kerns, 2008 Richard Weymer Il, 2009 President Ed Hobbs William Rupert, 2010 Joel Hodapp, 2009 Jack Zimmerman, 2010 4417 Inwood Road, Raleigh, NC 27603-3315 Lloyd Henley, 2009 (919) 828-2754 AreaE AreaQ Vice-President of Elections George Wanamaker Robert Olesen, 2008 AreaK David Friday, 2008 Monte Harold, 2008 321 S. Lafayette, Macomb, IL 61455-2233M-WTCA.ORG Russ Allen, 2009 Robert Oehman, 2009 Gary Johnson, 2009 David Howell, 2009 Tom Konsler, 2010 (309) 836-6872 Ron Knorr, 2010 Bill Youart, 2010 Vice-President of Meeting Planning Open AreaR Vice-President of Membership John Walkowiak AreaF AreaL Walter Karsten, 2009 Dave Fessler, 2008 Jim Bode, 2010 3452 Humboldt Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408-3332 Matt Borders, 2008 (612) 824-0785 Vice-President of Scholarship George Elsass Committee Chairman 1315 Lakeside Place, Worthington, OH 43085-2893 (614) 888-0591 Elections George Wanamaker Directory Larry Thorson Meeting Planning Doug Cox Preservation & Education Phil Baker LeRoy Witzel Treasurer Membership John Walkowiak Marion Henley Award Ron Pearson P.O. Box 355, Humboldt, Iowa 50548-0355 Scholarship George Elsass Displays & Awards Bob Valich (515) 332-3649 Gristmill Editor Bill Kolm Family Assistance Don Riley Secretary Larry Thorson Special Publications Vincent Soukup Internet Don Bosse Address Labels Kerry McCalla 764 Stonebridge Avenue, Onalaska, WI 54650-8813 By-Laws and Policy Ray Nissen What's It Ron White Scrapbook Barb & Mike Slasinski (608) 779-0966z
2 The Gristmill Coming Up M-WTCA National Meetings Where to Send What Fall, 2008 Oct. 2-4 Decatur, IL. George & Ketra Wanamaker (309) 836-6872 Please note where to send what so it will reach Spring, 2009 June 18-20 Lexington, KY. the right person. Fall, 2009 Oct. 29-31 Indianapolis, IN. Send changes in your address, phone num 2008 M-WTCA Area Meetings ber or E-Mail to: KLM Computer Services, c/o Kerry Mccalla, 104 Engle Ct. , Franklin, AreaA+B Meet Sept. 13/14, Rochester, MN Hollis Feeser (507) 282-3175 TN 37069, phone (615) 791-6198, E-Mail AreaC Meet Sept. 20, Dearborn, MI Del Galofaro (734) 676-0997 [email protected] AreaD Meet Sept. 21, Cosgrove, IA Jim Escher (319) 656-3931 Request The Gristmill copies from: Carl AreaE Meet Sept. 28, Summit, IL Ashley Kennedy (847) 475-2481 Gray, 17140 28 Mile Road, Ray, Michigan 48096- AreaM&N Meet Oct, 17 Tifton, GA Doug Fowler 706 629-8604 2905, phone (586) 781-9467, E-Mail: sandusky AreaD Meet Oct. 26, Omaha, NE Fred Leu ( 402) 592-1907 [email protected] AreaN Meet Nov. 1, Micanopy, FL Phil Baker (941) 485-6981 Pay membership dues for current year: Send AreaQ Meet Nov. 8, Bethania, NC Robert Oehman (919) 858-8506 your check made out to M-WTCA to LeRoy Witzel, AreaE Meet Nov. 9, Carlinville, IL Bob Terry (618) 377-3421 Treasurer, P.O. Box 355 Humboldt, IA 50548-0535 AreaN Meet Nov. 22, Blountstown, FL Willard Smith (850) 674-2777 phone (515) 332-3649 E-Mail [email protected] Please write RENEW and your name and address 2009 M-WTCA Area Meetings on your check Do not use a new member applica tion to renew an existing membership. Area A Meet Feb. 14, Medina, MN Eric Mattson (651) 462-3955 Submit materials and advertising AreaN Meet Jan. 14/17, Fort Mead, FL Vince Soukup (772) 562-0791 information to The Gristmill: Send to Bill AreaB Meet Feb. 22, St Francis, WI Gary Kane (608) 877-9290 Kolm 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE AreaF Meet Mar. 7/8, Spencer, IN Matt Borders (812) 824-9318 68134-4623, phone (402) 572-1238, E-Mail AreaE Meet Mar. 29, Loves Park, IL Gary Johnson (815) 636-1464 [email protected] Apr. 18, Hastings, MN Eric Mattson (651) 462-3955 Area A Meet Obtain scholarship information: Contact AreaD Meet May 3, Humboldt, IA LeRoy Witzel (515) 890-0262 George Elsass 1315 Lakeside Place, Worthington, AreaF Meet Aug 22, La Porte, IN Carl Bil_derback (219) 362-9869 OH 43085-2893, Phone (614) 888-0591, E-Mail [email protected] Dates must be cleared with Jim Bramel (502) 863-1226 E-Mail: [email protected]
Financial Statement: Nomination Committee Report INCOME Dec. 31, 2007 Membership Dues ...... 84.318 by Nominating Committee, John Wells, Chairman Mid-West Tool Collectors Association, Inc. Life Membership ...... 500 Gristmill Advertising ....•.... 5,543 Semi-Annual Meetings ...... J ,057 The Nomination Committee is pleased to nominate ASSETS Auctions ...... 2,766 Operating Funds Interest Income ...... 15,017 the following slate of officers for the office NW Fed. (Ckg) ...... 22,639 Donations (non-restricted) ... 8, 190 indicated for the year 2008-2009. NW Fed. (CD) ...... 16,346 Donations (restricted) ...... 9,645 NW Fed. (CD) ...... 16476 Label Sales ...... 230 NW Fed. (CD) ...... 16,790 Directory Advertising ...... 1,060 President Vanguard MM ...... 119,604 Areas & Auxil. (Income (-) . . . -7.829 Ed Hobbs Accounts Receivable TOTAL INCOME ...... $120,497 Semi-annual meeting ...... 2000 EXPENSE Restricted Funds Scholarship ...... 6,035 Vice President - Meeting Planning Scholarship ...... 470 Mt. Vernon ...... 3,300 Endowment ...... 11 ,287 Auction Expense ...... 1,914 Meeting Reserve ...... 15,795 Gristmill ...... 37,596 Vice President - Elections Mt. Vernon Tools ...... 231 Membership Directory ...... 11,491 M-WTCA.ORGMt. Vernon Intern ...... 2,498 Special Publication ...... l J. l 05 George Wanamaker Pres. & Ed. Comm ...... 1.329 Director's Q'rtly Report ...... 232 Life Memb'sp Fund ...... 66,713 New Members Back Copies .. 1,642 Vice President - Scholarship Unrestricted Funds What's It Comm ...... 221 Board Reserve ...... 45,000 Other Comm. Exp ...... 2.688 George Elsass Adv. Level Contri ...... 23,528 Membership Development .. l ,989 Other Advertising ...... 222 Vice President - Membership Assets held by Areas &Aux .. 26,616 Area Mailing Labels ...... 604 Administrative (copying, TOTAL ASSETS ...... $387,321 John Walkowiak printing. stati'ry, pst'ge.etc) .. 4062 LIABILITIES Internet ...... 141 Secretary Deferred Revenue Dues Membership Database Serv .. 2,818 (Paid in 2006 for 2007) ...... 58,154 CPA Services ...... 390 Larry Thorson Treasurer ...... 5,907 EQUITY Insurance ...... 1.369 Treasurer Retained earnings ...... 303,021 Election ...... 230 Net Current Income ...... 26, 146 Semi-annual meeting exp . . ... 395 LeRoy Witzel TOTAL EQUITY ...... 329,167 TOTAL EXPENSES ...... $94,351 TOTAL LIABILffiES & EQUITIES ... $387,321 NET INCOME ...... $26,146
September 2008 3 M-WTCA Makes Waves in Erie photos by Mike Slasinski by Mork Eastlick
The morning sun was begin ning to rise as the gulls were seeking their first meal of the day. The fresh winds blew across the lake waves as the people prepared for the day ahead. Some of them were buzzing about the events of the moment, while others were simply going about their busi ness as they had done many times before. That may have been the scene as the American Navy crew sail ing on board the Brig Niagara prepared for battle against the British fleet during the War of The ''Victorian Princess" Paddlewheel Boat 1812. However, that definitely was the scene in the tailgating area on Thursday morning at Friday found the main activities located at the Bayfront the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, Pennsylvania on Convention Center where a record number of displays were June 12-14, 2008. presented in the North Great Hall. The Ladies Auxiliary had a full slate of events and activities. Tool trading continued The Erie lakefront served as the setting for the 40th inside while skilled demonstrators shared their skills. Bill Anniversary meeting of the Mid-West Tool Collectors Hill made split oak baskets. David Smith carved while David Association where the attendees were able to enjoy them Fisher used hand tools to shape wooden bowls. David Di selves, meeting new friends and seeing old ones. Zinno worked on his scroll saw while Frank Flynn carved a On Wednesday evening, 150 members took a cruise onto mirror frame. Noted plane maker Konrad Sauer displayed Lake Erie where they viewed a grand sunset offering a pal the capabilities of his planes. The quality of the demonstra lette of colors that highlighted the beauty of the sky and tor's craftsmanship was astounding. water. After a restful evening, perfect weather greeted the Friday also featured tours of the Erie Maritime Museum, Thursday morning tailgaters looking for that early bargain. Many reported very good sales throughout the day. home of the U.S. Brig Niagara, a full size working replica of the War of 1812 warship that helped win the Battle of Members also had the chance to tour the Bayfront Center for Maritime Studies where they saw a school that taught Lake Erie. Speakers of the day included an encore per boat building skills. Later on that evening, Paul Hamler formance by Paul Hamler regarding his latest scraper plane project. The evening speaker was Roy Underhill gave an outstanding program about the process of building his miniature center wheel plow plane. Friends then gath whose remarks concerning "30 Years of Subversive ered at the Hospitality Room to cap off a long day. Woodworking" were enjoyed by all. M-WTCA.ORG
Friday's Trading inside Bay.front Convention Center Speaker Paul Hamler during one of his programs
4 The Gristmill The Brig Niagara docked at Erie, PA.
Busy Tailgating Tables on Thursday Morning ' ' The Erie lakefront served as the On Saturday, tool trading continued through the morning setting for the 40th Anniversary and the Ladies Auxiliary luncheon featured speaker Gayle meeting of the Mid-West Tool McKay whose quilt program pleased all. At 1:00PM, Martin Collectors Association where Donnelly conducted a 600 lot auction that was open to the public. The auction featured quality items and prices were the attendees were able to enjoy strong, although bargains could be found. themselves, meeting new Saturday evening's banquet was very well friends and seeing old ones. , , attended and after a fine meal, the mem bers were entertained by Bill Holden, the founding President of Mid-West Tools who related amusing stories about the early days of the organization.
M-WTCA.ORGRoy Underhill speaking to the packed crowd
right: Bill Hill working on his Split Oak Baskets far right: Founding President Bill Holden addressing the Saturday Banquet Attendees
September 2008 5 Erie, Pennsylvania Displays by Bob Valich, Display and Awards Chairman
Mid-West Tool Collectors Association celebrated its 40th they patiently gave much time and thought to their deci anniversary at the Erie, Pennsylvania tool meeting, in sions. I would like to thank them for their dedication. June, 2008. What a perfect time to also celebrate setting a Displays are a very popular and educational part of a tool record, for the most displays at a M-WTCA meeting! meeting. I would encourage each of you to think about Thirty five outstanding displays were enjoyed by everyone bringing a display to a meeting. Whether it is one tool or attending the meeting. many, others enjoy learning about someone else's collec The theme was Maritime and Shipbuilding Tools and tion. Write a description about your display, which will cre Instruments. This was the ideal theme for the meet, as the ate interest and inevitably will encourage a new friendship. hotel was located on Lake Erie's, Presque Isle Bay. A nau Add your name and a title for your display and arrange it tical atmosphere, including views of the bay, boats enter on a table cover. It will be well worth your time and effort. ing and leaving the harbor, and a Maritime Museum, sup Each display at the Erie meeting was greatly appreciated ported the theme. by all. We hope to see more of these excellent displays at The judging committee again, had a tremendous task decid the October, 2008 meeting in Decatur, Illinois. ing on the award winners. With so many excellent displays,
photos by Mike Slasinski
Roger Smith Best Out of Theme Bit Brace Tools
Dave Heckel Henry Caudle Fred A. Curry Award Most Unusual Stanley Rule and Level #27 Horse Shoe Display Carpenters Slide Rule M-WTCA.ORG Carl Gray Best One Tool Sandusky 24 ''Machete"
Merrill Schmidt George Elsass Best in Theme People's Choice One of Many Maritime Tools 18th and 19th Century European Tools
6 The Gristmill Phil Baker John Rumpf ' ' Harvey W Peace Back Saws Plane Makers of Wilkes-Barre . .., . ::·-- '( a··_.· ~- Pennsylvania ·-----,:, : .· _ --- ·--::-.·• .••i-.~ -•;~ - ,:::· - -. 1· l "'""":._: -._ ~ VA ~ .. 0 - - - 0 _ - .- - 0- _,_ }= - -~ - - ~ ---- ··; ·-~-
Cecil Holmes Plow Planes by Stanley Rule and Level Co.
Herbert Caudle George Wanamaker William D. Scalf, 20th Century Inventor Judges Stanley Innovations in Tape Measures Choice Awards
Dick Dickerson Ron White The Brackett Protractor Grease Box M-WTCA.ORG
Tom Lamond Fire Axes and Associated Tools
Frank Flynn Charles Wirtenson Typical Western Pennsylvania Tools Stanley Model Shop
September 2008 7 The Stanley Model Shop by Charles G. Wirtenson © June 2008
The Stanley model shop was where new products were devel oped and tested. Stanley also acquired tools from other com peting companies to evaluate their products in order to improve their own line of tools. It was not uncommon for Stanley to buy out another company in order to acquire tools that they wanted to add to their product line. Tools pro duced by the model shop were evaluated by the production committee that met on a regular basis and were approved or disapproved for production. Stanley employed many talent ed inventors such as Charles G. Miller, Leonard Bailey, Justus Traut, and Edmond Schade who were responsible for many of the notable innovations found on many Stanley tools. The second plane in the display is a Stanley No. S5 experi mental plane that was modified so that it had an adjustable frog that could be set at any angle between 39 and 69 degrees. The tote on this plane was moved towards the back so that there was clearance for the blade and frog to move to the 30 degree position. This plane was probably used to try different blade angles.
Tools found in the model shop usually fall into five cate The third plane in the display was the Stanley No. 64 Butcher gories, experimental, prototypes, one-off, cut-away models, Block prototype. The prototype had no number cast into the and competitor's models. Experimental tools were tools that bed and the lever cap was different. More details can be Stanley was considering putting into production. Some of found in The Gristmill, December 2005. these tools made it into production and some did not. Prototypes were products that were ready to go into produc tion other than minor changes in design. One-Off's were one of a kind. These examples could be redesign on an existing tool designed for a special purpose. They could also be ideas submitted to Stanley for evaluation. Cut-Away tools were designed to promote StanleyM-WTCA.ORG tools. Examples usually found included chisels and planes. Competitor's models were products from competing companies that Stanley acquired for study and evaluation. The first plane shown in the display is an experimental Stanley No. 130 with a blade adjuster. This plane was proba The fourth plane is a No. 54 Combination Plane prototype. This bly designed to replace the Stanley No. 131 which had a very plane has the original tag from the model shop. One side of the fragile blade adjuster that was subject to breakage. The No. tag reads: NOTICE, This is a model and must be returned to dept. 130 with blade adjuster never made it into production. 58 S.R.& L. The other side reads: 5/11/38, Model 9396, Plane Comb. Stanley #54, 1st lot sample app by oper. Comm.. 5/11/38.
8 The Gristmill The fifth plane is a No. 5 Surface Planer, One-Off. This plane was a No. 5 that had four depth stops added so the plane could be used to plane two inch wood to a given thiclrness. This feature was designed by L. R. Schatz, Medford, Oregon. It was sent to Stanley Tools on July 7, 1927. and redesigned by E.A. Schade in August, 1926. The two design drawings were under the lever cap when this plane was found. It remains a mystery why this plane was ever designed and The eighth plane is a competitor's plane made by Sargent for what its purpose was. Winchester.
The sixth and seventh planes are cut-away planes that were used for point of sales to help potential customers see the benefit of purchasing Stanley planes. I would like to thank Roger Smith, Walter Jacob, Jim Mau, and Steve McNulty for their help and suggestions on this display. I would also like to thank John Wells for his help not only on the display but the countess hours spent helping me put this article together. continued from page 2 M-WTCA.ORG up on October 2-4. (Yes, George & Ketra say they have plen want to attend on Saturday, they can join M-WTCA at the ty of room.) Contrary to some rumors that I have heard, we door at the regular $25 rate (they will get the rest of 2008 and are not cutting out tailgating or doing away with anything. all of 2009 membership) and basically get in to the meeting We are simply rearranging things over the usual 3-day for on Saturday for free (banquet is NOT included). mat. We are adding more opportunities to share information, I have enjoyed attending and seeing many of you at our learn and see more demonstrations and making the meeting Area meetings and plan to get in a few more this year. They more relevant to those who might only be able to get there are a great opportunity to meet others, learn and yes, per on Friday and/or Saturday. And if it does not work, we will haps add a thing or two to the collection. And as always, if change it! Also do not forget the Saturday only option of you have any ideas, suggestions, questions or just want to attending, as Saturday will be a very robust day in the trade "talk tools," please feel free to contact me at (919) 828-2754 room. If you lrnow someone who is not a member but might or [email protected] - east coast time.
September 2008 9 Area Meets
Area Q - Local Meeting - Join Us in Bethania, NC on November 8th by Jim Bode
Join us in Bethania, NC on November 8th for our Fall, before nearby Salem, in 1761. The community is still laid local meeting. This is our first meeting at this location, out in the original plan, with the Church at the center. and we want to kick-it-off with a great turnout. Please Many homes in the town date to the 18th century, and it is note, past issues of the Gristmill have listed another loca easy to see the connections to the past. There is a small his tion in Waxhaw, NC. Bethania is conveniently located near torical society museum in the old schoolhouse. Salem, Winston-Salem, NC and is easily accessed from US-52N. eventually incorporated into the city of Winston-Salem. It now features a large, historical park and museum complex. The meeting will be held at Bethania Moravian Church in There is also a historical park at Bethabara. All three com their Fellowship Hall. There will be plenty of room to spread munities are just a few miles apart and easily accessed. out, with ground-level entry and outdoor space available for setting up larger equipment, demonstrations or tailgating. Nearby will be Pilot Mountain, part of the Sauratown The meeting fee of $15 will include a hot, catered lunch of Mountains. It is sure to have beautiful fall foliage. This home-made chicken pies, veggies and desserts, provided by area is the gateway to the center of wine country in North the Women's Fellowship. We will follow our regular meeting Carolina, with many well-known and award-winning format including Displays, a Business Meeting and a wineries less than an hour away. Program. Our recent, local meetings have drawn more than Meeting Notices will be sent to all members in NC, SC and 100 attendees, so do not miss out. VA in late September. For more information contact Robert Bethania was a colonial village, established by the Oehman at (919) 858-8506 ([email protected]). Come Moravians in 1759, just after nearby Bethabara, in 1755, and join us in Bethania on November 8th!
Area H & R Meet, Hancock Shaker Village, Hancock, Mass. by Jim Bode
The meeting was held on a giant, 200 foot wooden deck in the Berkshires overlooking acres of cow pastures and 200 year old barns. Russ Ellis and Nicholas Habicht were each awarded 1st place for their amazing axe displays. Tom Lamond gave an awesome presentation, a lifetime worth of knowledge Axe Display by Russ Ellis shared with the group. We were given a private tool tour 1 tool tour was a blacksmith s shop, chair, shaker box and by the museum, a behind the scenes and ropes look that broom makers shops. And tools, boy were there tools! I the usual visitor does not get. They fired up the water bought a Cesar Chelor moulding plane, a rare local axe powered turbines that run a complete 18th/19th century and a full set of 18th century plow plane irons. The loca shop and gave us a private demonstration. Also on the M-WTCA.ORGtion for a tool meet was by far one of the best to date and we will be back there next May with a log hewing demon stration and another tool tour already scheduled.
Meeting on the Deck Scout Hatchets & Axes by Nickolas Habicht l O The Gristmill M-WTCA Scholarship Recipients 2008-2009 by George Elsass
We are proud to award these six men and women $1,500 Application forms will be available after November 15th, scholarships to help them pursue their education in cours 2008 from George Elsass 1315 Lakeside PL Worthington, es of their choice. The Board of Directors has approved to Ohio 43085. Telephone 614-888-0591 or [email protected]. give up to six $1,500 scholarships for the year 2009-2010.
Samantha Gaier of Piqua, Ohio Jacob Palo of West Springfield, is attending the College of MT. PA. will be attending Penn St. Joseph in Cincinnati, OH, State Erie at Erie, PA. pursuing majoring in Interior Design. a degree in Engineering.
Leslie Hammond of Stomping Rajean Witt Thomas of Fargo, Ground, Kentucky will be ND. will be attending attending the University of Moorhead State University at Kentucky maJormg in Moorhead Minnesota majoring Biotech/Agritech Engineering. in Elementary Education.
Brittany Knodle of Byron, Ruth Anne Watkins of Illinois will be attending Stevenson, Maryland will Bradley University at Peoria, be majoring in Theatre. IL. maJormg in Physical University was undecided at Therapy and Health Sciences. time of application.
Update FromM-WTCA.ORG Past Scholarship Recipient by Brian Kolm
Since I was awarded a M-WTCA Scholarship in 2003, I feel I tions worldwide with projects in all 50 states and 60 coun should update the group on my progress and tell you how it tries. It employs more than 7400 professionals. helped with my college education. I attended the University The M-WTCA Scholarship funds along with various other of Nebraska at Omaha, Peter Kiewit Institute. In May 2007, scholarships and working 20-24 hours per week has helped I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in me graduate without owing anything in student loans, which Architectural Engineering with an emphasis in Mechanical is almost unheard of these days. Engineering. I received my Masters Degree in May 2008. Being a member of M-WTCA since 1997, I would once again I am now employed as a mechanical engineer in training by like to thank you for your generosity and selecting me as a HDR Inc., an architectural, engineering and consulting firm past recipient of the M-WTCA Scholarship. based in Omaha, Nebraska. HDR has more than 165 loca-
September 2008 11 Committee Reports
Membership by John Walkowiak
Summer is upon us at this writing. The 4th of July has just here, I reported that we had gained 25 new members from passed. Most of us will be traveling about more than in the these two sources since the first of the year. I am really winter, and likely stopping at antique shops and flea mar happy to report that as of this writing, we have almost dou kets in search of a treasure to add to our collection. Here bled that number to 46 new members since Jan. I from you will probably bump into other tool collectors and they eBay sales and Silent Salesmen!! may not be Mid-West members. It is the perfect opportuni I know we can keep growing this number. If you need ty to tell them about Mid-West and gain a new member for membership brochures just contact me and I will mail your area. It would be a good time to have a membership them to you. Roy Underhill was one of the guest speakers brochure in your back pocket to give to them. Remember at the Erie PA meeting. I asked him if I could take a picture there are membership applications in your Directory and of him and use it for Mid-West promotions and of course also on the inside front cover of your Gristmill. Take a he said yes. So, .look for his smiling face on the next print moment to put one or more of these in your car to hand out. ing of membership tri-folds. Thanks to everyone who is putting the membership Don't forget, that all of YOU are on my Membership brochures in your eBay sales, and to those who have put a Committee!! Keep up the good work and THANK YOU!! Silent Salesman to work in your shops. At my last writing
M-WTCA Needs You!! by Ed Hobbs
Do you enjoy attending our semi-annual meetings? Like to It committee, etc.) and utilizing, a proven standard meeting travel? Enjoy serving others? format, this role will be straight-forward and very rewarding. Well, you are a good candidate to help M-WTCA as a semi Good planning, scheduling and organizational skills and annual meeting manager!!! basic computer ability in word processing and e-mail required. Compensation will be available! We will provide a Basically, we are looking for several people or couples who lot of training and help to get people started and we will would agree to host our meetings on a rotating basis at des provide plenty of on-going back-up and support. ignated locations. (Auxiliary members please note - you are included and encouraged.) By taking advantage of the To find out more, please contact Ed Hobbs, acting semi many established services we currently use (meeting regis annual meeting chairman at 919 828-2754. trar, printing and mailing service, display committee, What's
M-WTCA Needs Your Help by John Wells M-WTCA.ORG We need the help of every member to locate qualified can tions. Fiscal performance of the meetings is important. didates for the Position ofV.P. Meeting Planning for 2009. Help and guidance getting started will be available. This can be a very rewarding position. It can be a real joy The election of officers for 2009 will be held at the Annual to play a role in seeing that the semi-annual meetings are a Business Meeting, at the Decatur Semi-Annual Meeting, success and are enjoyed by the great bunch of people who October 2-4, 2008. The slate approved by the Board has a attend them every year. The position does require the abil vacancy for the position of V. P. Meeting Planning. Please ity to work well with other people. Having some experi help us fill that vacancy before the Annual Business ence putting on meetings of comparable scope would be Meeting. Think about people who would be a good fit for helpful, as would the ability to recruit, train, and mentor this important job, talk to them and if they seem at all meeting hosts. The job will require some travel to likely receptive, give their names to John Wells, Chair of the sites, to inspect facilities, and conduct preliminary nega- Nominating Committee as soon as possible.
12 The Gristmill The M-WTCA Endowment Fund by Mel Ring
This is the first of what we hope will be a series of columns Endowment Fund are fully deductible under IRS laws and that will provide answers to questions that are raised about givers are provided with a receipt to use for tax purposes. the M-WTCA Endowment fund. Receipts for in-kind gifts make no mention of value. It is up to the donor to establish value. Gifts with an estimated higher For many readers, we will be plowing ground that has value may require an independent appraiser. Internal already been plowed. But with the ever-changing member Revenue Service does not allow the Endowment fund to ship of our organization, we believe it important to keep become involved in the appraisal process. M-WTCA is not in newer members informed. So we want to highlight some the business of owning collections. Professional dealers who things about the Fund and how members might use it. are members of the club have offered their services at no cost Recently there were gifts made to the Fund in memory of a to obtain the highest amount. In this way all tool collectors deceased member. Such gifts are one way of memorializing a will have the opportunity to obtain what might be rare tools. member who found the club to be an important part of their All gifts are important both to the giver and to the life. It is a lasting memorial and one that will make others Endowment Fund. However, there is a point where a giver aware of important work done by their friend or loved one. might need the advice of a tax expert or a legal advisor. In-kind gifts. When the Endowment Fund was formed, it Members of the Endowment Fund Committee will answer was believed that not all contributions would be made in questions that they feel qualified to answer but will some cash. Another way of giving is what is known as "in-kind" times recommend that the giver seek professional advice gifts. In our case it is anticipated that in-kind gifts might be where they believe it is appropriate. tool collections or parts of tool collections. Gifts to the
Ray Nissen Plans Gift by Mel Ring
Long-time member and past-president Ray Nissen has at each of those meetings, giving sage advice and often included the M-WTCA Endowment Fund in his estate plan helping boards and committees arrive at a proper decision. ning. Nissen has provided for a gift of $10,000 What is estate planning? Estate planning is to go to the Fund. In planning for the gift, simply the creation of documents that outline Nissen is getting nothing in exchange. He just your wishes for the distribution of your assets believes that he is doing what is right and that after you die. The wishes of an M-WTCA mem he is providing for the future of an organiza ber might be to leave a cash gift in a specific tion that he has enjoyed for many years. amount, or a tool or a group of tools that might Nissen had this to say about his planned gift, be sold at auction with the proceeds going to "We all have an obligation to assist in provid the Endowment Fund. A member making a ing the financial resources of M-WTCA so that major gift might specify that proceeds from future members may enjoyM-WTCA.ORG the activities and that gift might go to fund a scholarship in knowledge that have given so much to each of preservation or in a related field. Such a schol us. As we have nurtured our individual collections and arship might be called the "Joe Smith Scholarship", memo have taken advantage of opportunities to share that knowl rializing the giver and providing a means for family and edge with others, we should do what we can to provide for friends to add to the fund in years to come. the continuation of the programs of M-WTCA." At the meeting in Erie in June, President Ed Hobbs remind Following his years as president in 1985 to 1988, Nissen ed tool collectors that only the proceeds from the has remained active and provided counsel to the club in Endowment Fund will ever be spent. The Fund itself will many ways. He has been "the keeper of the By-Laws" and always be there to earn money. He further reminded mem periodically sees that they are kept up to date. He has bers that the M-WTCA Endowment fund enjoys a 501 (c) 3 attended 69 semi-annual meetings, and has "been there" status, and that all gifts are deductible under the law. for the Executive Committee and The Board of Directors
September 2008 13 John C. Pritzlaff Hardware Company by Gary R. Kane
When I found out the 2007 M-WTCA National Spring Meet was going to be held in Milwaukee, WI, I decided it was an appropriate time to present a presentation on the John C. Pritzlaff Hardware Company. I do not remember exactly how I became interested in the John Pritzlaff Hardware Company and their tools. It may have started with a Pritzlaff Hardware catalog I purchased years ago. But any way at some point in time, I discovered I had a number of tools marked with Pritzlaff and Everkeen ( a Pritzlaff brand), in my collection and I started to research the com pany. I soon discovered it was one of the biggest, if not the biggest, hardware dealer in Milwaukee and one of the biggest hardware dealers in the Midwest. Johann Carl Wilhelm Pritzlaff immigrated to America in 1839. It is easy for us to forget in this time of quick and easy travel, what a long, difficult and unknown journey our forefathers embarked on to immigrate to America. Through letters John C. Pritzlaff sent back to family mem bers in Germany we have a short history of his journey. • 1839 May 16th or 17th John C. Pritzlaff said farewell to family and friends in Trieglaff, Kingdom of Prussia. • May 30th He arrives in Hamburg JOHN PRITZLAFF • June 30 He waited in Hamburg for fellow countrymen FOUNDER who were delayed by passport problems. • July 1st He departed Hamburg heading to England by a state. In 1818 a Frenchman named Solomon Juneau set steamship. tled in the Milwaukee area. It is thought the Milwaukee name came from the Native American word Millioke. • July 4th After a 3 1/2 days they land in Newcastle, Early settlers also referred to the area as Milwacky. In England. 1846 Juneau's town along with Kilbournetown and • July 7th He traveled by train to Carlise and by Walkers Point joined to form the City of Milwaukee. In the steamship to Liverpool. 1840s a large number of Germans and other immigrants helped to increase the population. By 1850 the population • July 11th In Liverpool John boarded the 3 mast ship, had increased to over 20,000. Fifteen years later, in 1865, "The Alfred" and began his journey across the the population had more than doubled to over 55,000. In Atlantic. the next 25 years the population would increased to over • Sept. 6th The Alfred arrives in New York. After an 200,000. Before the Civil War there was a mix of German, almost 4 month journey, John C. Pritzlaff had arrived Irish and Yankee residents. In 1860 half of the residents, in in America. Milwaukee, were foreign born. After the Civil War Slovaks, Russian Jews, Italians and Poles immigrated to In my research of Immigration Ship Transcripts it was Milwaukee. For instance, in 1910, Milwaukee boasted sobering to see how manyM-WTCA.ORG deaths occurred on the ships 70,000 Polish born residents. It is this great ethnic diversi that brought the immigrants to America. Most of the ships ty and not a beer that has made "Milwaukee" famous and would have several hundred people on board. Except, for makes Milwaukee the interesting city it is. the well to do, I am sure the steerage accommodations on board most ships could be described as grim. Obviously John Pritzlaff arrived at a time when there was booming growth to the area. Milwaukee would go on to John Pritzlaffworked a couple years in New York He then become a brewing and manufacturing power. By the late worked on the Genesee Canal in Pennsylvania before con 19th century, Milwaukee was a major industrial center tinuing on and arriving in Milwaukee, WI in 1841. with tens of thousands employed in the tanneries, The history of John Pritzlaff would be incomplete without foundries, packing plants and of course the breweries. At a short history of Milwaukee, WI. On John's arrival in one time Milwaukee was home to Schlitz, Blatz, Pabst and 1841, Milwaukee was not yet a city and Wisconsin was not Miller, four of the world's largest breweries. Some of the
14 The Gristmill world famous manufacturers are Allis Chalmers, Allen ing that since the "well to do" built most of their homes Bradley, Briggs & Stratton and of course that little motor along the lake shore, they did not appreciate their back ized bicycle shop known as Harley-Davidson. There is a yards being turned into a cesspool. If one drives north tum of the century poster that declares Milwaukee "Feeds along the lake shore today, the pump house is still there and Supplies the World". and is currently a restaurant. The rapid growth and the American Industrial Revolution The one point that stood out on my research on may have brought great wealth and a booming economy, Milwaukee was that during this time the average life span but there was also a downside. We as tool collectors, tend in Milwaukee was around 25 to 27 years. It took three to admire the skills, inventiveness and the great quality Socialist mayors, who were sometimes referred to as 11 11 that went into the manufacturing of the tools with little sewer socialists , to clean up the environmental and thought to the human sacrifices that occurred. It is political pollution. Due to not hard to envision the Milwaukee area, in these socialist mayors Pritzlaff's time, as a city comprised mostly of dirt building a real sanitary roads probably with some brick roads starting to Good Hardw.m: S111cc IIS"O district and instituting a appear in what would eventually become the down JOHN PRITZLAFF public health and a child town. Numerous foundries and manufacturing HARDWARE COMPANY welfare commission, by plants sprang up along the river with their large 1932 the average life smokestacks belching smoke and pollutants into Di11r,b11t"rs expectancy had General and Heavy Hardware the once clear skies. The Milwaukee River, which Mill Supplies increased to 53 years. was once a food source for the local natives and In Milwaukee John early settlers, became nothing more than a sewer Pritzlaff became a team system of industrial and human waste. ster and worked for $9.00 per month. In 1842 he made a living by cutting timber at the site of the Schlitz Park John first entered the hardware M I LWAUKbE, WISCONSIN field in 1843, where he was employed by Shepardson & Farwell as a porter for $200 a year. In 1844 Shepardson sold out to Nazro and King and Mr. Pritzlaff continued in the latter's employment. John Pritzlaff, along with August Suelflohn and Henry J. Nazro, opened a small retail hardware store called John Pritzlaff and Company. Nazro was a silent part ner, but carried the financial bur M-WTCA.ORGden. Pritzlaff bought out Suelflohn in 1853. By 1866, Nazro withdrew, There is an interesting story on how the early city officials leaving the entire business with John Pritzlaff as propri decided to clean up the polluted Milwaukee River. etor of a large and rapidly growing business. The hard Someone came up with the bright idea to dig a tunnel ware company was incorporated in 1884. The company north of the city. A pumping station was built to pump kept growing and moving until it became the largest hard water from Lake Michigan over and into the Milwaukee ware store in Milwaukee and the entire region. John River. Lake Michigan being the toilet tank, they would Pritzlaff died, in 1900 at the age of 80, and his son every so often flush out the pollutants in the river. This Frederick C. Pritzlaff took over the company. apparently worked quite well except for one minor prob Being a hardware company Pritzlaff did not make their lem. Now all the pollutants and the sewer were washing own tools but had them produced by some of the best tool up on the lake shore. I have no proof, but I have the feel-
September 2008 15 manufacturers in the country, including Stanley, Sargent, am not sure if this was a brand of Pritzlaff or a brand from Millers Falls, Union, Douglas, Kelly and Hammond to the axe manufacturer. It is evident from the number of name just a few. Most of the tools, in my collection, are tools found marked with a Pritzlaff brand that they were marked either "Pritzlaff'or "Everkeen". Pritzlaff marked indeed one of the largest hardware dealers in the Midwest. tools seem to have been their generic brand. The early It appears the Pritzlaff catalogs, after 1900, may have been Pritzlaff tools were well made but after the war there was numbered by the year but I do not have enough examples a noticeable decline in quality. to confirm this. For instance, a #36 was a 1936 catalog. The Everkeen trade Later catalogs, like in the 1950s, had no number on the mark is most often seen catalog cover but they were numbered on the cover page bisected by a long trian just inside the cover. Of course the covers could be re gle, similar to the shape used or catalogs could have pages added so one can have of an axe, with JPH & Co several years represented in one catalog. For instance, I inside the triangle. have a 90th Anniversary Catalog which would be for the Although tools marked year 1940 catalog but the cover page says 1948. with just the word John C Pritzlaff Jr., grandson to John Sr., was born in Everkeen are also very common. The Everkeen brand 1925. In 194 7 he graduated from Princeton and joined the appears to be their premium brand since all the tools I family firm as a vice president. John Jr. have seen marked with the Everkeen became the third generation to serve brand are of a high quality. I am not sure Pritzlaff hardware and the last. In 1947 when Pritzlaff started using the the hardware business was already in Everkeen brand but it does not appear decline. In 1958 John Jr. and his wife in a 1902 catalog but by 1920 it was in moved to Phoenix, Kl. John Pritzlaff Jr. use. Another brand that was used was was elected as an Arizona State "# 1 Extra Pritzlaff'. I only have this Representative, in 1960. In 1974 he brand on a set of chisels and a slick filled the Arizona State Senate seat which are of a very good quality. I have vacated by Sandra Day O'Connor and come across one other brand which is he served for 8 years. John C. Pritzlaff "Our Splendid". Our Splendid is in script Jr. died in May of 2005 at the age of 79. and I have only found it on axe heads. I At my presentation, in Milwaukee, I was asked by a member if I knew why The Pritzlaff Hardware Co. had closed? Neither then nor now do I have a definitive answer. I did check with several long time Milwaukee M-WTCA members and several long time Milwaukee residents to see if they knew why the hardware company closed. The consensus was no one in the family wanted to continue in the M-WTCA.ORGbusiness. Another Milwaukee hardware dealer from whom I have marked tools is the Wm. Frankfurth Hardware Co. who was a com petitor of John Pritzlaff but who got his start in hardware business with the Pritzlaff Company. I also have several tools and a catalog for the Morley-Murphy Hardware Co. which was located in
16 The Gristmill Milwaukee and Green Bay. Morley-Murphy also used the brand name "Wedgeway". I have found more marked tools from the Morley-Murphy Co. than from the Frankfurth Hardware Co. I have several catalogs from the Shadbolt and Boyd Iron Company who appear to have been a wholesale company only. I have not seen any tools marked with their name. They sold blacksmithing and horse supplies. I also have a saw marked by the Phillip Gross Hardware Co. and a Cornelius Tenney saw marked for the AJ Jones Hardware Co (later it was the JJ Jones Co.). I have a wood plane made by De Forest, a Birmingham, CT. plane maker from 1850-1857, with an E. Schumacher stamp. Schumacher was a locksmith, who obviously sold some hardware. He is listed in 1853 & 1854 Milwaukee history book. I have several wood planes marked by the Henry J Nazro Co. who was a hardware wholesaler and as mentioned earlier, John Pritzlaff's silent As a side note, the John C. Pritzlaff Hardware building still partner. In a 1921 Milwaukee City Directory there were 92 exists and is located just south of the I-system in down hardware and tin ware dealers listed. The last time the town Milwaukee. There are plans to convert it into retail John Pritzlaff Company appeared in the Milwaukee City and condominiums. Directory was in 1958.
Looking Back by Bill Kolm
How I Started Collecting Antique Tools I would imagine everyone collecting antique tools could sit workers who also col down and come up with a time or incident that defines lected old tools and when they seriously started collecting. For me, I can trace it doing some investigation back to an exact day, Christmas day, 1990. My wife's parents in the library, I set out in lived in a small town in western Iowa about an hour from search for that special Omaha. My father-in-law had lived in the same house and old plane or interesting A Christmas (To-ol) Remember farm his entire life. His mother and her father had been in tool from long ago. One the house since the 1870s. In the basement with the thick day while I was attending a local auction, I was approached old stone encrusted walls, sat a very large wooden tool box by Area D Director Fred Leu, who had noticed me at previ packed full of old tools. Many times I had looked through ous auctions; he told me about Mid-West Tools and what the that old tool box as my father-in-lawM-WTCA.ORG had gone to it for acer club was about. I just wish I had discovered Mid-West Tool tain tool he needed while working on a project on the farm. Collectors Assoc. sooner. That's why I encourage all mem I was into woodworking at the time but most of my work bers while at local estate sales or auctions, to get to know was done with power tools. He would tell the story of these the guys bidding against you on an old tool and ask him or tools belonging to his grandfather who built furniture and her if they know about Mid-West. Carry some of the appli caskets. One day I was looking at and questioning him about cations in your vehicle and offer them the chance to join the the many wooden molding planes in the toolbox. Of course largest tool collectors club in the world. Maybe in a few he was sure they were used to pretty up the caskets. I years, that person will write to the Gristmill with a story thought nothing of it until that Christmas day when I opened about tool collecting and mention your name as his mentor. the gift from my father-in-law and there packed neatly in the Have a good story about your early collecting years? Can box were several of the old wooden molding planes. you trace your collecting days back to its beginning? Send It did not take long for my interest to peak about the histo articles about your experiences to The Gristmill for all to ry of those old block planes. After talking with some wood- enjoy and spice it up with a photo or two of your first tool.
September 2008 17 Left-Handed Tools by Bob Roger
Approximately 13% of the world's population is left-handed. Are 13% of our tools for left-hand use? No, probably not even close, but there were many old tools that were designed for left-hand use. It is a neat and unusual collecting niche - do any of you collect only left-hand tools? If you do, how about writing about them? Figure 1. Right-hand hair clippers A quick look at a few pages on the internet reveals that such implements as scissors, bread knives, chain saws, can openers, corkscrews, vegetable peelers, ink pens, pruning shears, guns, watches, golf clubs, and measuring rules, to name just a few, are much more effective for left handed people when designed differently than the 'nor mal' right-hand versions. The same holds true for broad axes and many of the other tools we collect. But how do you tell the difference - what do you look for? Features to Look For in a Left-Hand Tool If grip is important (e.g. on a pistol or rifle or handsaw), the thumb groove will be on the right instead of the left. For a measuring rule, the numbers will ascend from left to right when the rule is above the line to be drawn rather Figure 2. More right-hand tools than below it. For scissors or similar cutting instruments, the top blade is on the left so you can see the line you are cutting and so that the natural squeezing action of the left Some com shucking pins are designed to fit the hand, so hand pushes the blades together. A knife with the blade there should be some of those made for a 'lefty'. Anything beveled or serrated on only one side will have that with a crank or lever may be a candidate - like apple peel bevel/serration on the right side so that it counteracts the ers or fodder cutters. All of my fodder/straw cutters have natural twisting motion of the hand. In a single edged veg the big cutting blade on the right as you face the holding etable peeler, you normally pull the blade toward your trough, which means they are for right-hand use. Anything thumb and body for a smooth accurate slice, so the edge with a blade sharpened on only one side, like a broad axe, needs to be facing you when you hold it in your left hand. should be looked at. Things that rotate are prime sus pects. For example, the old dentist's tooth key for pulling In other words, certain design features will be 'backward'. teeth only works by rotating it one way, and mine are all Many tools work either way, but some do not. Looking for right hand keys. How about crooked knives - seen any for left-hand tools can be fun and challenging. It might be fun the left hand? I have a large collection of two-hand hay to discuss 'Left-Hand Tools' in the Gristmill for a few knives, and all are designed for use on the user's right side issues, with members submitting descriptions and photos (the handles are offset to the left of the blade). Are there of their left-hand tools. We might be surprised at what gets any left-hand water spigots (they would tum off by a submitted, and we would certainly learn from it. M-WTCA.ORGcounterclockwise twist)? Figure 2 shows a right-hand A quick look around my tool room revealed several possi dental tooth key and right-hand crooked knife. bilities for types of tools that could have or should have Okay, now that you are thinking about your tools, let us been made for left-hand use. For example, my old hair eliminate one right away - the so-called Pennsylvania clippers (Figure 1) have handle spurs designed only to fit Grain Reaping Sickle. As explained very well by Robert the right hand. I could not even hold them comfortably in Rauhauser in his article in The Gristmill, June 2006, pages my left hand. A left-hand version would have the double 30-31, this tool was used in the right-hand with a back spur on the bottom arm and the single spur on the top stroke (swinging it left-to-right), so the bevel is opposite arm. There must have been left-hand barbers and animal to all the other sickles I have seen. But there could be a care folks who used clippers - has anyone found a left left-hand sickle - do you have one? hand version?
18 The Gristmill Examples of Left-hand Tools Brigg's patent # 270,200 in 1883. With this design only the thinner edge is sharpened for cutting, and on this gimlet There are, of course, many tools that work equally well that is the lower edge. That means the gimlet must be when used in either the right- or left-hand, but here are a turned in a counterclockwise direction to cut a hole, and few examples of tools that were designed for left-hand use. that makes it a left-hand gimlet. It accompanies Walker's Corkscrews: A corkscrew contains a spiral blade or wire Champagne Tap and is for cutting a hole in the cork prior helix that is twisted into the cork and then pulled to to inserting the tap. The gimlet is slightly shorter than the remove the cork from the bottle. The natural rotating standard cork and the shoulder keeps it from penetrating motion of the left hand is counterclockwise, and entirely through the cork, letting the champagne tap finish corkscrews that are designed for left-hand use have the the job to ensure that the 'bubbly' is not lost. Notice that spiral in a counterclockwise direction as it proceeds from the champagne tap has right-hand threads. Why would the handle toward the tip. Right-hand corkscrews spiral in they package a left-hand gimlet with a right-hand tap? But a clockwise direction. Although left-hand corkscrews are that is not all that does not make sense. The patent dates not common, there are some to be found and they are still shown on the box label (Feb. 4th, 1902 and April 19th, manufactured today. All of the corkscrews ( and packing 1905) are not correct. Walker had two patents for these pullers) in Figure 3 are for left-hand use. champagne taps, #692,951 on Feb. 11, 1902 and# 757,794 on Apr. 19, 1904.
Figure 3. Left-hand corkscrews & packing pullers
Cork Pullers: A cork puller has a thin shaft with a small, thin, cUIVed blade at the end. It is pushed into the bottle between the neck and the cork until the blade passes the Figure 5. Left-hand gimlet with right-hand champagne tap bottom of the cork, where it is then rotated 90 degrees so that the top of the blade is under the cork The tool is then pulled to lift the cork out. A left-hand cork puller has the Broad Axes: A short-handled broad axe used for squar blade curving in a counterclockwise direction as you look ing logs has the handle offset from the plane of the blade down the shaft from the handle, so that after insertion it is to preserve one's knuckles, and the blade is sharpened on rotated in a counterclockwise direction. Figure 4 shows a the same side that the handle is offset to. For a right-hand left-hand cork puller. In this view you are looking at the con ed person, the handle offset and the blade bevel are both cave side of the blade, a feature very hard to photograph. to the right with the blade facing down. It is held with the right hand closest to the axe head and the left hand M-WTCA.ORGtoward the end of the handle, and swung along one's left side with the log on the left. For a left-handed person, it is opposite - the handle offset and blade bevel are on the left, the left hand is foremost, and the log is on the right Figure 4. Left-hand cork puller side. Mercer not only mentions that left-hand broad axes were made, but he shows a photograph of one. I have two in my collection, a very large one and a Pennsylvania style Gimlets: The gimlet in Figure 5 is the only boring tool goose-wing axe. They are shown in Figure 6. In that Figure that I have seen that is for left-hand use. It has a single both handles are offset toward the viewer, and you are straight pod with sides tapering to a point. The pod sides looking at the sides the blades are sharpened on. The are of different thickness (asymmetric) - an adaptation of large axe on the bottom has a 12 _ inch long blade and weighs 8 _ pounds. continue on next page
September 2008 19 The opener on the bottom in Figure 7 has a fulcrum on each side of the blade, so it can be used in either the right or left hand. The fulcrum is shown from underneath in Figure 8.
Figure 8. Upside-down view of fulcrum
Figure 6. Left-hand broad axes
Can openers: Many old can openers have two features - Figure 9. Left a cutting blade and a fulcrum for leveraging the blade handed opener around the can. Figure 7 shows two openers that are effective for either left- or right-hand use. The sharp edge of the blade faces the fulcrum and they cut by inserting the blade into the can and pulling it up.
Some openers use a centering point to pierce the lid in the cen ter, and then the blade is rotated about that pivot point to cut the top out of the can. With this style a left-handed person wants to hold the opener in the left hand and pull the blade toward her/him as the can is rotated clockwise by the right hand. This means that a left-hand opener will have the sharp edge of the blade facing you when looking at the opener Figure 7. Am bidextrous can openers with the handle to the left and the pivot point to the right, and the blade underneath the shaft. The opposite is true for a right-hand opener of this style. Most fulcrums were intended to be placed on the rim of the can with the blade somewhat offset toward where the cut Many openers use a jagged wheel to engage the can rim is to be made. A right-handed person would hold the can in and cause rotation of the can into the blade. With this the left hand and the opener in the right hand, dictating that style one hand grips the two handles to hold the drive the blade should be offset to the left of the fulcrum and wheel against the can while the other hand turns a crank worked counterclockwise around the can top (with the can to rotate the wheel. The hand turning the crank defines rotated clockwise at the same time). This also allows the the 'handedness' of the opener, and it must always be eye to see the cut as it is made. An opener for a left-handed outside the can edge. A left-hand opener of this style person would have the bladeM-WTCA.ORG offset to the right of the ful uses the left hand to turn the crank, which is to the left crum ( when viewed holding the opener for use). of the opener body when holding it. An example of a left hand version of a current product of this style is shown The opener on top in Figure 7 has the blade offset to the in Figure 9. right of the fulcrum, making it a left-hand opener when cutting the top out of a can. But notice the large tab pro Hooks: Hooks are an extension of the hand, so it makes jecting below the fulcrum (the fulcrum is behind the tab in sense that there are hooks that are effective when used in the photo). When cutting the top out of a can, that tab the left hand. Most hooks are effective in either hand but moves along the outside edge of the can, keeping the cut a few are designed specifically for one hand or the other. ter next to the rim. So why is it ambidextrous? If the open Figure 10 shows two such hooks, the one on top being er is held flat in the right hand and the tab is laid on the only for the left hand and the one on the bottom being top of the rim, the blade can be inserted into the side of only for the right hand the can and the top cut off (rather than out).
20 The Gristmill Scissors. Figure 11 shows scissors for the left hand (top) and for the right hand (bottom). When open for cutting, the uppermost blade is on the left and right, respectively.
Figure 10. Left- and right-hand hooks Figure 11. Left- and right-hand scissors
So, what is in your tool box?
Importance of Area Meets by Nikki Borkovetz
A family can be defined as a group of individuals that bond for several years. Before Don, Mary Lou Stover together to form a social group or small community and along with Carol Lomax ran the meet for years. that share common characteristics. A family is formed by The first order of business for running a meet is to the individual members that join together to help make it have a suitable building in which to hold the meet. grow. Just like those members, the local area meets of the Plenty of parking, room for trade tables, room for Mid-West Tool Collectors Association play an important displays, easy access (tor bringing in tools and for role in the continuous growth of the organization. the members), clean bathrooms and reasonable This past February, I had the opportunity to attend my rent are afew of the most important requirements. local area meet, the Carol Lomax Memorial Tool Meet in Because of the reasonable rent, we have been able St. Francis, Wisconsin. Having attended only semi-annual to keep the members fee very low compared to most meets in the past, it was fascinating to see the way the local meets. I have been getting six or seven new "locals" interact with each other. It was a small communi members signing up a year at the meet. ty of people that were getting together for a family reunion. The next item is creating the flier and getting it M-WTCA.ORGprinted. One then has to decide who they are going I felt a strong sense of pride and dedication when reading an email Gary Kane the host, had sent me in response to to send the fliers to. I send to au members in WI my request for information about area meets. Below are and the Northern third of IL. Usually three mem bits and pieces of information Gary shared with me that I bers come over to my house to help stuff envelopes, felt were essential parts of organizing a meet that some affix labels and stamps. They are Jim Hoffman people may not realize. from Stoughton, Ron Jensen from Edgerton and Darrell Vogt from Waunakee. My son, Ryan, has also helped on numerous occasions. I really ' ' I took over the St. Francis meet in 2005. Before appreciate their assistance and I usually have 2005, Sue (Tubman) Nelson and Mary Lou Stover pizza and a dessertfor the guys for their help. had run the meet for a couple of years after Sue's Finally I can sit back and relax for three days husband Don Tubman died. Don had run the meet before the registration forms start to come in. I
September 2008 21 keep track of the registrations as they come in on smoothly and her assistance allows me an occa a computer spread sheet with the member name, sional short tool hunt of my own. Kathy's hus town and state they are from, whether they want band Darrell helps with covering the trade tables a trade table or display table and the amount they that need to be covered and with placing the paid. I usually end up calling several members to members reservation tag on the trade tables. see if they wanted a trade table because they have Pete Hartmann is in charge of making sure that always reserved one in the past. Most often they we have orange juice and half and half, which he just f argot to check they wanted one. kindly donates to the meet. Slav Jelesijevich is the enforcer. He is in charge of the "no tools on The nex t important item, which is the most the table" rule. Most of the members I ask to help important to numerous members, are the with the meet are more than willing to help, at kringles. I have probably gotten more comments least until the tool trading starts. on the kringles than any other aspect of the meet! There are definitely more positives than negatives Another one of the most beneficial aspects of the in running a local meet. There are also many meet is the displays. I have left the theme of the more complements than complaints. I am always displays open, for I do not want to discourage looking for constructive suggestions on ways to anyone from setting up a display. There is also a improve the meeting. But it is the support of the lot of educational information provided with M-WTCA members who end up making St. some of the displays. I usually try to put up a dis Francis the successful meet it is. play with a Milwaukee or WI theme. At this years meet, one of the members who had Door prizes are another element included at the won one of the money certificates, donated it back meet. This has evolved from door prizes to money to the cost of running the meet. Oftentimes during certificates, which need to be spent at the meet. pre-registration, members will include extra Both the buyers and the sellers indicated their money with their registration towards the running approval of the certificates. Each year Martin of the meet. Through their thoughtfulness and gen Donnelly has generously donated a subscription erosity the members are constantly reminding me to his ''Live Free or Die" tool auction catalogs to be given away. why I enjoy being a member of this organization. ' ' Although the majority of the work in running a meet falls on the one in charge, there are numer Hopefully this gives you a little more insight as to all the ous members who help to lighten the load. In my hard work and time the people that organize meets put case both my wife and my son are a big help. My into them. Just like an individual family member con wife spends the whole meet setting up the tributes and is depended on by their family, area meets are kringles and pastries and keeping the coffee pots essential to the continuation of this association. When a full and helping clean up after the meet. Another family member moves or passes away, the lack of their person who is extremely helpful is Kathy Vogt presence is greatly felt by everyone close to them. It is for who helps me at the registration table. She helps these reasons that it is imperative to promote and support make the whole registrationM-WTCA.ORG process run more your local area meets. Golf Club Tools
Avid golfer hwin J. Sitkin writes that he just fin driver, a lead ladle, 14 inch bow saw and 12 inch tenon ished reading a book on the game of golf, set in the saw, a 3/8 inch gouge, 1 inch chisel, medium hammer, vice late 1800s. hwin was pleased to come upon an with a 3 1/2 inch jaw, a screw for leads, a steel bottom plane, glue pot, oil stone, oil can, a pair of scales and inventory of tools used in golf shops from that era. weights up to eight ounces. Besides a sturdy 33 inch high workbench, a well stocked golf shop had a 14 inch half round cabinet file, 14 inch half Not many tools compared to most carpentry shops but round cabinet rasp, 14 inch half round wood rasp, brace, then you were only working on wooden handled golf 3/16 inch twist drill, a small bit, a scraper, 12 inch screw- clubs fitting them into the club heads.
22 The Gristmill Leaving Their Marks In Many Ways and Places ... The CCC and the WPA by Tom Lamond© **USA** WORK PROGRAM WPI'.
Representation of a logo used by the Representation of symbol or logo associated with the Civilian Conservation Corps. WPA. The top rectangle was often printed in blue and the bottom one in red.
Many of us have marveled at some of the structures and CCC (1933-1942) other accomplishments that have endured for over half a CMLIAN CONSERVATION CORPS century in our national and state parks and various other Originally: public places. We may even have read some of the plaques Emergency Conservation Work Act that commemorate the work and mention when it was Nicknames: done and by what organizations. When doing so we may Roosevelt's Tree Army, Tree Troopers well realize that there were two organizations that are Soil, Colossal College of Calluses repeatedly mentioned or noted. Not that they were the only contributing influences or agencies, but when con Economic turmoil and widespread unemployment sidered on the grand scale they certainly were influential plagued the United States in the late 1920s into the early in achieving much of that which can be appreciated today. 1930s. The country was sliding deeper and deeper into a The two agencies I refer to are the CCC and the WPA. recession. In 1932 Franklin Delano Roosevelt was elected Both have left their marks on our landscape, many of our president and within months proposed a program to an monuments, examples of architecture and even on some Emergency Session of Congress that would address the of the tools that have survived over the years. The marks growing problems of soil erosion and declining timber may be readily recognized, so perhaps a bit of the history resources. Another major consideration was to utilize sig that related to those marks will be found of interest. nificant numbers of the unemployed to implement the M-WTCA.ORGmeasures he proposed. The Congressional bill that resulted from Roosevelt's March 9, 1933 proposals was introduced in both houses of Congress on March 27 and was presented to the President CCC for signing on March 31. It represented a plan to mobilize men, material and transportation on a scale previously unknown during a time of peace. The program was initial Representations of stampings used on axes and ly called the Emergency Conservation Work Act. It other tools signifying they belonged to the Civilian became commonly known as the Civilian Conservation Conservation Corp. Corps or the CCC but it had a number of other nicknames.
September 2008 23 The first enrollment of an inductee was accomplished on April 7, 1933, only 37 days after President F. D. Roosevelt was inaugurated. The initial logistical problem involved WPA getting inductees, who were mostly located in the East, to the initial places where the work projects were located, mainly in the West. WPA Over a period of time the work camp distribution changed dramatically and there were camps located in each of the contiguous states as well as Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico Representation of markings reported and the Virgin Islands. By the end of 1935 over 2,650 to have been used on some axes. camps were in operation. WPA (1935-1943) The act that originally created the program was amended WORKS PROGRESS ADMINISTRATION in 1937. In addition to the formal adoption of the title (Work Projects Adm. after 1939) Civilian Conservation Corps, the act provided for educa Nickname: "Make-work" program tion and training, considerations that had been informally and inconsistently introduced earlier. The Great Depression had a devastating effect on the CCC enrollment peaked in 1935 although it never reached work force of the United States,. One of the organizations the maximum enrollment authorized. This was due to con that was formed by the US Government for the purpose of flicting strategies involving new rules by supervisory man providing employment was called the Works Progress agers that became involved later, as well as attempts to Administration. Originally formed by Presidential order in balance the federal budget. April of 1935, the organization soon became known as the As the program progressed it took on still another name; WPA. In 1939 the name was changed to the Work Projects Roosevelt's Tree Army. The CCC erected 3,470 fire towers, Administration but it maintained the same recognition built 97,000 miles of fire roads, spent 4,235,000 man-days symbol, the WPA. fighting fires and planted more than three billion trees. Initially targeted toward rural and western mountain pop The Corps included the Soil Conservation Service that ulations, the WPA program spread to all parts of the coun was involved in erosion control. In addition, The Grazing try. The purpose of the program was to provide jobs and Service involved the protection of rangelands. Other activ income to the millions of unemployed breadwinners ities included the building of small dams, stream improve responsible for feeding their families. In doing so the pro ment and the restocking of fish, protecting natural habi gram was said to be in competition with the Civil tats for wildlife and the development and construction of Conservation Corps. Where the CCC initially involved soil recreational facilities in national, state, county and metro conservation, erosion control and reforestation, the initial politan parks. goal of the WPA was to provide individuals with up to 30 By 1940 the effects of economic cutbacks and the signifi hours of employment per week with a wage based on cant decline in unemployment was impacting on the con those prevailing in the area. The program was funded by tinuation of the Corps. The outbreak of World War II the Federal Government and administered by local gov resulted in the decision not to continue funding the CCC. ernments. That resulted in critics judging many activities In 1942 monies were appropriatedM-WTCA.ORG for the liquidation of to be "make work" in nature. the Corps and the CCC soon disappeared. By March 1936, the WPA rolls had reached a total of more The CCC markings were used on many tools, including than 3,400,000 persons. After initial cuts in June 1939, it axes. Considering the Corps functioned for approximate averaged 2,300,000 monthly and by June 30, 1943, when it ly ten years and was spread across the continent and in was officially terminated, the WPA had employed more other areas it is not uncommon to come across some of than 8,500,000 different people on 1,410,000 individual the artifacts that have survived for so long. projects, and had spent about $11 billion. During its eight year history, the WPA built 651,087 miles of highways, One may find it interesting to learn that the major statue roads and streets and constructed, repaired, or improved made to commemorate the CCC worker included a man 124,031 bridges, 125,110 public buildings, 8,192 parks, and with a double bit axe. 853 airport landing fields including approximately 700 miles of airport runways.
24 The Gristmill Right from the beginning the WPA activities involved con of their activities involved material and supply procure struction of public buildings, public projects and road ment. As it was more economical and efficient to acquire construction. The WPA also conducted large art, drama, things like tools in large quantities, the identification of media and literacy projects. It fed children, redistributed such tools was adopted. This was done by ordering such food, clothing and housing. things as axes with the initials CCC or WPA stamped into the head. Axes and shovels were also identified by burn Seven percent of the budget was allocated to arts projects ing the appropriate initials into the wood handles. resulting in 225,000 concerts to audiences totaling 150 mil lion, and the creation of nearly 475,000 pieces of art. The Some tools, including axe heads, marked CCC also includ preponderance of the art was under the auspices of the ed the name or an abbreviation representing the specific Federal Art Project, which was one of the divisions of the project where the tool was being used. One marking yet W.P.A. Many of the art projects were actually murals paint to be resolved read "CCC ALT." Many of the tools marked ed on the walls of public buildings, others were oil paint WPA also included a number. It is believed that was an ings and still others were sculptures. When observing additional means of identifying the tools by including the many of the art works it becomes quite evident that the group or unit number on the tools. This made it more man subjects included workers from all walks of life, many of ageable when determining which unit the tools were them holding or using their tools. In 1940 the WPA com assigned to. menced training the unemployed for factory jobs. By 1943 there was so much demand for employable individuals to Select,ed References: May have links to additional information. work in producing material for the war effort, Congress discontinued the WPA. http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Civilian_Conservation_ Corps http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Works_Progress_Administration Considering the diversity of projects that the CCC and the WPA became involved with, it is understandable that part http://www.wpamurals.com/index.htm
The Evolution of a Saw by Bill kolm
From the February 1927 issue of The Industrial Arts hole saw only 7 3/4" in length. The illustration shows Mr. Magazine, listed under the School Shop Equipment News Mann's saw as it appears today after 27 years of service. is the following story and photo. Note from the Editor: Most old hand saws have been hand A hand saw is a tool which is constantly in use in the sharpened sometime during their long life, or sharpened school or commercial shop. In order to give the best serv many times during their lifetime. But, can you imagine how ice and to insure its use over a long period of time, a saw many times he had to file that 27 inch saw to get it down to must be made of the best steel, in the most approved man the size of a keyhole saw? Maybe he was using those well ner, with due attention to construction and finish. made Disston hand files as he methodically reduced his hand saw down to a Shorty he could keep in his pocket. I In maintaining the usefulnessM-WTCA.ORG of a saw and proving the value have not found any Disston ads touting their saw temper which the manufacturers have put into its construction, it is ing which allowed this fellow to accomplish this transfor essential that the saw receive the proper care and filing. mation. This could have been a huge marketing opportu A Disston hand saw, purchased in 1899, by Mr. William nity for Disston. If anyone has come across a Disston ad Mann, of Wilmington, Calif., is still in use as a result of the using this saw, it would make an interesting follow-up to care it has received. The saw was used for 27 years, and this article. during this time its width has diminished through many sharpenings, although the temper remains the same. The spring and life of the blade still respond to the touch and the edge still cuts straight to the line. From a shining, new 26" saw, the Disston saw has contin ued in service for 27 years, until it now resembles a key-
September 2008 25 Two Great Auction Weekends Nashua, New Hampshire September 26 & 27, 2008 Indianapolis, Indiana October 17 & 18, 2008
Live Free or Die Antique Tool Auctions a Division of Martin J. Donnelly Antique Tools www.mjdtools.comM-WTCA.ORG (800) 869-0695 Live Free or Die Antique Tool Auctions The World's Largest Specialist Auctioneers ofAntique -Hand Tools A Division of Martin J. Donnelly Antique Tools, Avoca, New York (800) 869-0695 · Please Plan to Join Us at Our Auctions! · www.rnjdtools.com Subscribe to our Tool Auction Catalogues for 2009 and Save! ~ Five Full Color Auction Catalogues ~ Five Listed Auctions of 1001 to 2501 Lots Each ~ Six Searchable Auction Preview Photo CD Rom Disks ~ Free 50,000 Item CD Value Guide with Subscription ~ All SEVENTEEN Publications Just $75.00 Ten Great Auctions in 2009 Open House Auction Martin J. Donnelly Listed Auction: Ramada Inn & Joint Tool Meeting Avoca, New York Friday, March 27 Indianapolis, Indiana July 31st & August 1st Auctioneer: Bill Baxter Auctioneers: Bill Baxter & Paul Wilmott Catalogue Auction: Ramada Inn Listed Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Saturday, March 28 Indianapolis, Indiana Friday, September 18 Nashua, New Hampshire Auctioneer: Bill Baxter Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Listed Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Catalogue Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Friday, April 25 Nashua, New Hampshire Saturday, September 19 Nashua, New Hampshire Paul Wilmott Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Auctioneer: Listed Auction: Ramada Inn Catalogue Auction: Holiday Inn Everett Turnpike Friday, October 16 Indianapolis, Indiana Saturday, April 26 Nashua, New Hampshire Auctioneer: Bill Baxter Auctioneer: Paul Wilmott Catalogue Auction: Ramada Inn Saturday, October 17 Indianapolis, Indiana Subscribe or 2009 Auctioneer: Bill Baxter
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' ' I ' I I ' I ' I ' :. . . ' ' I I. , I I I I I ' l I I l l I l M-WTCA.ORG• I We are Committed to Expanding the Market for Antique Tools n the past ten years we have sold more than a half million· antique tools at auction. Our extensive advertising, Internet marketing and I 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 consultation Today. Martin J. Donnelly (800) 869-0695 Keeping Track of Your Tools (using wikicatalog.org) by Tom Beavin
Ever get a hankering to catalog your collec Here is how it works. First create a userid and supply a tion of tools, but just can not find the time? password. Under that userid you can create your collec tions. To add items to a collection search the catalog to Did you ever wish you could share your tool see if that item already exists. If it does then just click the collection with other collectors, but do not "Add" button when viewing that item to add it to your col want to lug the items around to shows and lection. You will be given the option of entering addition al information about your particular item, such as condi swap meets? If so, there is a website that tion, purchase price, place of purchase, etc. This informa might help you accomplish both at the same tion is only accessible to you by logging on with your time. It is called www.wikicatalog.org, and is userid and password. One can also upload pictures of the in item however these pictures will be viewable by anyone designed to allow you to catalog items visiting the website. That is how your collection is shared your collection and share photos and general with other collectors that visit the website. information associated with those items with If an item in your collection does not exist in the catalog, other visitors to the website. you can add that item to the catalog, and provide a gen-
Category Info Collecubles • TooIs > Woodworking Tools> Planes Name: Sandusky TOOi Co l',otyTlppedEbooyPfow Name: Sandusky Tool Company Planes Plane Parent Planes All Links category: $an.!!!!sk{To£.IC£!"Pany Pl:ineS' Updated: 2006-12-31 2135.15 Help Updated 200&-03-10 20 55 30 OescnpllOII: All types or planes made by Sandusky Tool Company -seaict;J Descnpllon: Nory bpped eoon, plow plane Made by Edit Remow Change Add A.dd Add Comment ' Search I San Nan>e:: San Name: J Llppen Mar1<1ng Gage Category. J Llppen Mamng Gages Updated, 200&-03-10 20 55 30 Upda1ed: 200&-03-09 21 0223 Oescnption. Ivory bpped ebony plow plane 1,tade by Descnpoon: Marking gage lhat has cast into Ille side of IQht 20oe. 200-r. 200a Sandustcy Tool Co ~,C,.t.log. In~ All righttr~ the fence -PAT SEPT 1 19" There are no otner markings on this gage The nead on !Ills gage Is cast alummum w,lh a lllumb lever to release the pressure on the rod and all<>Wthe hea~_to be moved The rod is round steel abOu! 1~~12"Ion~with acirrula! 1kiCatalog AIIAB CD E FGHIJKL MN OPQRSTUVW XYZ Category Info Catalog Functions c;-J B.S.V Co. AdJUstable Hollow Auger Collectibles >Tools> Woo GJBanJOS Updated: 2007-10-18 00 55:35 Barnes Moms,ng Mactnne iCopvrt:Qf'!12000. 2001, 2001 Q Descnpuon: AdJustable mouth bloc!< plane NllliCatalog. lnc. Allf19hl:'Jt~ W Sarnes No. 2 Velocipede Scroll saw [i_J Barrett Patent Marking Gages Name: Bailey Tool Company Denance Block Plane 28 The Gristmill eral description which will be shared with other collec The website is for educational purposes only. tors. After adding the item to the catalog, it will auto Information is provided as is, without warranty. Use is matically be added to your collection, where you will completely free. There are no ads and no items for sale. have the option of entering additional information that is An email is required to establish a userid, but only to not viewable by others, along with pictures which will be verify your identity in case you forget your password shared with others. and need a new one sent to you. All information and photos uploaded to the website must be with permis If you are not interested in cataloging your collection, sion of the owner. If another website contains informa but do enjoy browsing through categories of old tools, tion about an item, simply add a link to the other web one can use the "Index" and "Directory" functions, which site (which can be done by clicking the "Add Web Link" lets you navigate to a particular tool category. The cata function). Do not copy information from another web log is also searchable if there is something in particular site, unless the information is going to be removed from you are looking for. If there is nothing in particular you the other website and you have obtained permission are looking for, one can use the "All Items" function and from the owner to copy the information. Attributions you will see page after page of many different types of for photos and information are encouraged (i.e. photo old tools. Be sure to check back periodically to see courtesy of Joe Smith) but not required for those who newly added tools. wish to remain anonymous. I started the website a few years ago out of a desire to Again, my thanks to all who have encouraged me in this organize and keep track of what I had in my collection, project and have shared their knowledge and collections and also keep track of information I had come upon for everyone to enjoy. All feedback on the website is when researching items. I also wanted to find a way to welcomed. ([email protected]). share it with other collectors, since much of the pleasure in collecting comes from passing on what we learn to others who appreciate it. After cataloging the items in my collection, I found I could not stop, so I sought out other collectors and dealers who have graciously shared pictures and information about a large number of tools. My sincere thanks to those, many of whom are M-WTCA members, who have helped contribute to the website in www.wikicatalog.org this way. 0TireGauges Category Info e r; ] Tools Collecttbles > Tools »ame: Awls, Slllkes, Pnekers and Tool Handles OBJ AW1s, S1)lkes. Pnekers and Tool Handles Parent Tools [IJBlaoom,thTools Updated: 2007-02-16 21 4634 Oescrtpbon: All sorts of aW1s. pnCkers, spikes and hollow loo! handles l l r > Bonng Tools Edit Remove Ctlange Adel Acid Acid Comment searc"h ' Parent SUbca!egory Item Web ollection Functions ::::J0Augers LlnK Adel New Collect1on (i_]Auger Handles lnelex Category Items Allttems Hollow Augers ana Spoke P Help ~ Search Aiken Patent Tool Handle I I ~ Beam Bonng Machines !lame: Updated: 2007-10-18 00 55 35 Tutori~I =::J [_i;Btts and Btt Accessones Oescnpt,on; fhe tool 1s about 4 314' long This loo! handle olicies ongmalJy came Wl1l1 20 tools This Tool Holder contact us i.!.J Btlslocks was patented on Apni 13. 1858 (1119901) by Logon Properties Hemck Aiien of Fran1<11n. NH The patent de sen bes lite hOllow handle with a lead r -1[ > 'Braces UserName cushioned bottom and screw cap the gnp M-WTCA.ORG(i]AJ Palmer Braces wti1ch bghtens ,nto a threaded soekel the wrench to b9hten and loosen lite gnp and lite Password: GJAmidon Tool Corporatron twenlj tools w,th square serratea shanks designed to be use<1 with lite handle [2JAUansBraces Name: "1rn & Hammer A September 2008 29 Obituaries Gene Snyder Sr. by Gene Snyder It is with great thanks and much sad Chattanooga was a great trip because we were able to ness that I tell you about my last big drive there from Florida and enjoy the last time with my adventure with my dad before he dad doing what we all love most-looking for junk. My died January 9, 2007. Gene Snyder dad scored while he was there do to the generosity of Sr. had been struggling in the fight Mike "The Rat" Urness and many others who were very against cancer for a year and a half, kind and patient as we pushed him around in a wheel when I asked him to join me for the chair to visit the various tables. Mike sold my dad a spe National Show in Chattanooga and cial needle-like tool that is used to stuff horse collars with he agreed. I then recruited his older brother (Uncle Dit) straw. He then saw us the next day and gave dad a relat and my cousin (Pete) to join us. They all had to join ed tool for building horse collars. Dad was a lover of hors MWTCA so they could attend, and enjoy the festivities. es and horse equipment, so it was a special gift. Rat, it has Little did I know at the time that my dad would only be a been over a year and a half now, so you may not remem member of the Mid West Tool Collectors Association for ber, but I would like to thank you for making my dad's day, three months. with the gift of that horse collar-stuffing tool. My dad and his two brothers have always been into I witnessed the great DRAW these tools had along with the "junk". "Junk" is all of the various items usually made of camaraderie of a fun day had on my dad ( even though he metal, wood, and leather that bring smiles to old men's knew he was dying) the morning of the parking lot sales. faces, and twinkles in their eyes as they reminisce, and I had been outside since 4:00AM trying to be one of the teach the young. I in turn have become quite a "junk" col first to score a great item in the dark, when about 8:00AM lector with my dad's help (let me tell you, junk is not Rat told me that my dad was using his walker to try and cheap). He and I have been going to garage sales every make it out of the hotel, up the hill and to the parking lot. Saturday for the past 15 years looking for all of these fun His able-bodied brother and nephew were still asleep, but things to discover and learn from. There was an educa dad wanted to be out there looking around and hanging tion in life every week as we "tooled" around the neigh out with me. We went back in and got his wheelchair so I borhood in search of gold. Sometimes we would have my could push him around the rest of the day. uncles along, but most of the time it was just the great The best part of the trip (besides looking at all those great bond between father and son. One of my favorite memo tools, of course) was spending the time in the truck driv ries of these episodes was trying to figure out how to get ing up to Chattanooga and back, listening to dad and his some of these items past mom without the never-ending brother tell stories about their youth, craftsmanship, tools question "What are you doing to do with that"? Can any of and good men that they remembered. I had the video cam you relate? My uncle would put some things in the trunk era in hand to record these great moments so that I may of his car before entering the house rather than risk the pass along the simple fun and great experiences to my wrath of my aunt. He did this with a youthful gleam in his kids. We all had a great time! eye that made us all laugh. M-WTCA.ORG Bert Packer II Bert Packer II, 71, of Dorr Michigan passed away Monday meets and local flea markets. Bert is survived by his wife April 21, 2008. He retired from General Motors after of 34 Betsy, of 52 years, one son, two daughters, grandchildren years of service in machine repair. He was a member of the and great grandchildren. He really enjoyed talking tools Mid-West Tool Collectors Association and a very active tool and telling stories. He will be missed by all who knew him. collector and trader. He was well known around the area 30 The Gristmill Obituaries John A. Ballintine By Jim Shipman It is with deep regret that I report the Oklahoma A&M University at Stillwater, OK. His college passing of tool collector emeritus education was interrupted by military service from 1942-46 John Ballintine, 86, of Mustang, where he served with the 118th Airborne Infantry as a Oklahoma, on June 26, 2008 in Berea, paratrooper and demolition specialist. He was scheduled Ohio. The doors of his home were to land in Japan when the atomic bomb was dropped. As a always open to fellow tool collectors result, he was in the first wave of troops to enter Japan to view his collection or to just talk when the war was over. After receiving his engineering about tools. John did not want a degree from Stillwater, he was employed by Armstrong funeral so a remembrance time was held for family and Cork Co. and then by Conoco Oil. After a brief time in friends which the funeral director called a roast. Ponca City, OK, he transferred to Conoco at Lake Charles, Everyone told stories about John that covered a vast LA where he met and married Jeanette Royston. They lived range of subjects. He was an Eagle Scout as a child and there until Jean's death in 1992. In 1993, he married Mary was the driving force in food collection in Mustang for the Lea Terrell and moved to Mustang, OK where he resided Kiwanis. After he sold his tool collection, he could not until April 2008. Mary Lea died in 1999. John was a long stay out of tool collecting so he had friends put shelves in time member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, his closet in his room at the assisted living center. He col and even owned a fire truck at one point. He was still lected tools no longer than the width of the shelves. John active in Kiwanis International, Mid-West Tool Collectors would have enjoyed the roast. He will be missed. Association and Southwest Tool Collectors. He was hon ored as Kiwanian of the Year in both Lake Charles and John was born on November 13, 1921 in Scottdale, PA, the Mustang. He was also preceded in death by his parents and third son of Oscar P. Ballintine and Annie Laurie (Schaller) brothers Elmer J. , Oscar P. Jr, and David W. He is survived Ballintine. He lived most of his childhood in Natrona by his sisters Lois (Mrs. Gabriel Pesce) and Eleanor (Mrs. Heights, PA and graduated from Harbrack High School. He Warren Harple) and ten nieces and nephews. then attended Fork Union Academy, Virginia, and M-WCTA Silent Salesman eBay by John Walkowiak by John Walkowiak Do you sell in a shop, do shows or demonstrations? We Please consider placing an M-WTCA membership promo have available a Silent Salesman for you to display at these tion in your listing or on your web site. This will be good or any other venues. They are lightweight and sturdy, self for M-WTCA by providing the thousands of eBayer's and standing sign holders. They hold a small poster and a pock online collectors who are looking at old tools and do not et that holds the tri-fold membership brochures. They are know about us, an easy means to make contact with our available in two sizes. An effortless way for you to pro organization. This will also improve your credibility by mote membership in M-WTCA.ORGM-WTCA. Just contact me at showing your affiliation with M-WTCA. It will be a Win JohnWalkowiak @comcast.net Win situation for everyone! SIMONDS SAWS (Pronwnco.1 Si _n.d,) A high gradr manufacturer's own brand tooL Strong favor ite with expert carpenters. Write for catalog of Saws for Manual Training Schools. SIMONDS MFG. COMPANY, Fitchburg, Mass. (14 Branches) Simonds Saw ad from the November 1914 issue of The Industrial Arts Magazine September 2008 31 Leander W. Langdon by Randy Roeder © 2008 Leander W. Langdon, the inventor of the Langdon miter was an obvious one-S.L. Hill and his associate Daniel box, is reported to have been born in Jay, Vermont, in 1833. Greene Littlefield were major investors in the operation. Little is lmown about his youth or family circumstances, Leander Langdon was set to work on the development of 3 although he would later relate that at age thirteen, while an improved sewing machine. C) employed in the shop of Daniel Rall of Rochester, New Langdon's years at Wells & Company were not entirely York, he became fascinated with sewing machines. After peaceful. Hiram Wells was a hard-driving man who had reading a newspaper article about a feeder device that sim lost part of one hand in an industrial accident and had a plified the sewing of curved seams, he constructed a 4 reputation for impatience.C) On the morning of June 11, model feeder from a wooden shingle-one that remedied 1859, a recalcitrant ten-horsepower steam engine was giv the defects of the original. At age seventeen Langdon also ing the operation some trouble, and Wells ordered its engi reported that he had built a working sewing machine of his neer Frank Spear, to weigh down a safety valve in order to own design in the Rochester shop of a Mr. Wright. ci) increase steam pressure on the balky machine. The com mand was unfortunate. A thirty-foot boiler connected to the engine exploded moments later. The force of the blast smashed an eight-inch thick brick wall-hurtling bricks through the air for 90 feet and moving heavy iron machin ery three feet off base. Hiram Wells, Frank Spear and a machine operator seated nearby were killed. Clemens B. Rose, the foundry superintendent and future inventor of the Rose bit brace, was standing near the rear of the boil 5 er and was badly scalded. C) Leander Langdon was not involved in the accident, and on March 20, 1860, he was awarded United States Letters Langdon Miter Box Patent No. 27,594 for a new version of his hand-cranked sewing machine. Nine months later, he patented for an Although the details of Langdon's youthful accomplish improved shuttle. Langdon shared the rights to the patents ments are questionable-they were given as testimony in a with his co-assignees, D.G. Littlefield and the late Hiram patent case in which he may have benefited financially Wells. The resulting machine featured a four-motion feed there is little doubt that he was a talented young man. By and maintained even tension on the thread, while a piece 1851, he was working on the construction of AB. Wilson of fabric moved through it. Four years in development, the sewing machines in the shop of a Mr. Burroughs, and by device was anything but easy to manufacture. The first ten 1852, he was working on a second machine of his own machines took 18 months to build and cost the operation design. On October 30, 1855, Langdon was issued United $10,000-a princely sum at that time. As the production States Letters Patent No. 13,727. He then began to manu problems were worked out, Wells, Littlefield & Co. facture sewing machines under his own name. arranged to have the machine licensed by the powerful 5 Sewing-Machine Combination. C) Langdon exhibited his sewing machine at the New York City Crystal Palace. It is a glass and iron exhibition hall The Sewing-Machine Combination-also lmown as the originally built for the Exhibition of the Industry of AU Sewing Machine Trust-had been formed in 1856, to bring Nations, the World's Fair of 1853. A wealthy industrialist some peace to a particularly brutal spate of patent wars. from Florence, Massachusetts, Samuel Lapham Hill was While not violent, the legal battles were expensive, and impressed with Langdon'sM-WTCA.ORG invention and arranged to have they were complicated enough to threaten the develop the manufacture of the machine moved to his hometown. ment of the industry as a whole. The trouble had started Hill was the president of the Nonotuck Silk Company. It is with a patent battle between pioneer inventors Isaac likely that his interest in the sewing machine owed much Singer and Elias Howe. Taking years to litigate and gener to the fact that a growing market for the devices was pow ating a transcript of over a million pages, the conflict cre ering sales of the machine-twist silk thread manufactured ated a situation where anyone making a sewing machine 2 by his business. c ) was likely to be sued by one party or the other. When Howe finally won the case, he was awarded a royalty on Hiram Wells & Company every sewing machine manufactured in the United States, Production of the Langdon machines moved to Hiram but the air had become so poisonous that nearly every Wells & Company (later Wells, Littlefield & Co.), a improvement, whether by Howe or others, generated addi Florence-based firm that manufactured circular sawmills, tional lawsuits. C7) pumps and grip wrenches. The choice of the Wells shop 32 The Gristmill The president of the Grover and Baker Sewing-Machine ends of seams, without turning the fabric. The only machine company, Orlando B. Potter, convinced the companies that having a self-adjusting shuttle tension, the amount of ten working together would be more profitable than fighting sion always being in exact proportion to the size of the bob continual legal battles. The major producers pooled their bin. Changing the length of stitch, and from one kind of patents and developed a system of licensing, and royalties stitch to another, can readily be done while the machine is that ensured newcomers entering the field would make in motion. The needle is easily adjusted. It is almost noise payments to what became known as "The Combination." less and can be used where quiet is necessary. Its motions Although members of the Combination cooperated in the are all positive; there are no springs to get out of order, and granting of licenses, they remained free to develop, manu its simplicity enables the most inexperienced to operate it." facture and market machines in competition with one "It does not require finer thread on the under than for the another. The group was diligent in protecting its patents upper side, and will sew across the heaviest seams, or a portion of the licensing revenues was set aside for the from one to more thicknesses of cloth, without change of prosecution of infringers. cs) needle, tension, or breaking thread. The Hemmer is easily adjusted, and will turn any width of hem desired. No other machine will do so great a range of work as the Florence. It will hem, fell, bind, gather, braid, quilt, and gather and 1 sew on a ruffle at the same time. "co) The Langdon Miter Box L. W. Langdon made no significant contributions to sewing machine development after the patent of his reverse feed in 1863. It may be that his affiliation with the Florence Sewing Machine Company ended shortly thereafter. On November 24, 1864, he was awarded two new patents, neither of which related sewing machines and neither of which can be linked to the principals of Florence Sewing. United States Letters Patent No. 45,054 was issued for a screw-cutting machine; the No. 45,055 was issued for a miter box. Florence Sewing Machine Florence Sewing Machine Company In 1861, D.G. Littlefield and S.L. Hill assembled a group of investors and established the Florence Sewing Machine Company. The operation was capitalized at $125,000 and Littlefield became the firm's first president. Only 50 of Langdon's machines were sold that first year. Sales increased to 1,100 in 1862 and the total capitalization to $200,000. On July 14, 1863, Leander Langdon patented an innovative and much admired reverse feed for the machine. Sales increased to 6,000 machines annually, and construction began on the new brick factory that would house the operation. By M-WTCA.ORG1866, the payroll had grown to 350. Production had increased to 1,500 units per month, and a 9 total $500,000 had been invested in the business.c) The Florence sewing machine's success was due in large part, to its versatility. An 1868 guidebook to the Connecticut Valley noted: "It makes four different stitches, the lock, knot, double lock, and double knot, on one and the same machine. Each stitch being alike on both sides of the fabric. Every machine has the reversible feed motion, which enables the operator, by Miter Box Patent Drawing simply turning a thumb screw, to have the work run either to the right or left, to stay any part of the seam, or fasten the September 2008 33 Langdon's original miter box was designed to accurately that the assault was made, but Langdon and Hannah got hold a saw at any of a series of pre-set angles. Although he the worst of it. Northampton has some of the worst liquor 11 is widely credited with the development of the cast iron sellers in the state. " C ) miter box, his contribution to miter box design actually His fiery temper aside, Langdon was an excellent billiards consisted of the use of rotating, cylindrical saw guides. player. In February 1865, "Lee" W. Langdon signaled his Oddly, the tool pictured in the original patent drawings intention of competing for the Gold Cue in the Tournament was equipped with an adjustment for the angle of the cut for the Championship of Massachusetts. The five-day tour that was located at the back of the box rather than the nament began on March 13 at Bumstead Hall, on Winter front. The angle was set by sliding a cylindrical saw guide Street in Boston. The game, four-ball carom, was played on into one of several tubes incorporated into the rear of the 6 by 12 foot, four-pocket tables made by Phelan and frame. It is not known if a miter box with this back-of-box Coll ender. L. W. Langdon came in fourth in a field of eight adjustment was ever manufactured. and won a silver cup for his efforts. The earliest illustration of a commercially available ver The following year, Langdon attempted to wrest the title sion of Langdon's box appears to be published in the from the reigning Massachusetts state champion, Edward May 11, 1867, issue of Scientific American. This miter Daniels. On February 21, 1866, he played a four-hour and box is adjustable at the front by means of a sliding guide forty-four minute match against Daniels at Bumstead Hall. that could be locked into place with a dowel pin and a Lee Langdon's fifty-ball runs were no match for Daniels' thumb screw. The box was manufactured by the 2 hundred-ball onslaughts; the inventor lost 1500 to 1252.0 ) Langdon Mitre Box Company of Northampton, Massachusetts. Little is bliown about the company's ear A Dummy Car liest years, although it ils ]iikely that it did not own a pro Certainly the most unusual of Leander Langdon's inven duction facility. Lruligdo:nii miter boxes were manufac tions was the dummy car he patented on November 30, tured at the Northamp>to:nii Pegging Machine Company 1869. While a contemporary reader might picture the until 1875, when production moved to the factory device as an automobile for the slow-witted, a Victorian owned by the Millers Fans Company. reader would have immediately understood that the term Langdon's second milter box patent was issued May 19, referred to a railway car equipped with its own engine. 187 4. With this design the tool took its modem form. The Langdon's dummy was a steam-powered street car new box featured a cy11mdrical saw guide fixed to a pivot equipped with a boiler at each end, water tanks under the ing arm that passed UTI1de:r the table of the box and could seats, an engine located under the carriage and between be locked in position at the front. For the next century, the wheels, and condensers on the roof. The odd locations most miter boxes would follow this pattern. of this equipment maximized the car space that was avail able to house passengers. Billiards and Beverages God-fearing mothers would not have considered Leander Langdon an appropriate role model for their sons. A fre quenter of billiard parlors and liquor locales, Langdon experienced the occasional dust-up with the law. On January 2, 1865, he was fined $25 and costs for an assault on William A. Govern of North Hadley. Later that year, he was arrested for selling non-medicinal alcoholic bever ages, a practice banned byM-WTCA.ORG a state-wide prohibitory law. He was subsequently involved in an assault on the law enforcement officer who testified against him. S.E. Eastman, the prohibitionist editor of the Greenfield Gazette & Courier reported: "Deputy Constable Chapin of Springfield was violently Langdon s Dummy Car assaulted, but not much injured, on Monday at Northampton, by L. W. Langdon and John Hannah. Mr. Designed to replace the horse-drawn cars in use at the Chapin had furnished evidence of liquor sales by time, there is no evidence that the dummy was commer Langdon, for which he was arrested, and was in cially successful. Attempts to test the prototype met with Northampton for the purpose of testifying in the case. It much resistance from Northampton residents, who were was while passing up the stairs to Justice Peck's office concerned about the impact of the car's noise and commo- 34 The Gristmill tion on their peace and quiet. After some wrangling, local References authorities approved the operation of Langdon's dummy. 1. Fisher, Samuel S. Reports of Cased Arising Upon Letters Patents for The Lowell Daily Citizen and News noted: Inventions: Determined in Circuit Courts of the United States. 2nd ed. Cincinnati: Robert Clarke and Co., 1871. Vol. 2. p. 105-115. "In Northampton, Wednesday, immediately after the vote was passed allowing the dummy engine to run upon the 2. Burt, Herny M. Burt's illustrated guide to the Connecticut Valley. Northampton: New England Publishing Co., 1867. p. 90. Williamsburg street railway, Mr. Langdon, the inventor, 3. Hannay, Agnes. "A Chronicle of Industry on the Mill River." Smith College steamed up into Main street with an overwhelming load of Studies in History, v. 21, nos. 1-4. p. 75-80. passengers, whose waving of handkerchiefs and shouts of 4. Clark, Christopher and Kerry W Buckley, eds. Letters from an American triumph were not a very welcome demonstration to the Utopia: the Stetson Family and the Northampton Association, 1843- owners of frisky horses, who had tried so hard to discon 1847. Amherst: University of Massachusetts Press, 2004. p. 190. tinue the use of the new and valuable invention of Mr. 5. Sheffeld, Charles A, ed. The History of Fwrence, Massachusetts: includ 13 Langdon in the streets. " C ) ing a complete account of the Northampton Association ofEducation and Industry. Florence, Mass.: (published by the editor], 1895. p. 109-110. Final years 6. Burt. p. 90. Leander Wesley Langdon was not destined for old age. 7. Cooper, Grace Rogers. The Sewing Machine: its Invention and He died of tuberculosis in Jacksonville, Florida, during Development. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution, 1976. p. 40-42. his 42nd year. Although he had continued to register new 8. Ewers, William, and H. W Baylor. Sincere's History of the Sewing patents in the year prior to his demise, he had been in Machine. Phoenix: Sincere Press, 1970. p. 39-40. failing health for several years. Langdon was visiting 9. Sheffeld, p. 242. Also: "The Great Workshops of America: the Florence Sewing Machine Company's Works." Frank Leslie's illustrated Jacksonville in the hope that the climate would improve Newspaper, no. 552, (April 28, 1866). p. 84. his health-something that an earlier trip to the Pacific 10. Burt. p. 90. Coast had failed to accomplish. Although he was a suc 11. "Hampshire County Items." Gazette and Courier (Greenfield), Dec. 25, 1865. cessful inventor, his illness had taken its financial toll by the time of his death. Leander Langdon left an estate that 12. Phelan, Michael. The American Billiard Record: a Compilation ofImportant Matches since 1854. Boston: Phelan and Collender, 1870. p. 33, 46. was declared insolvent and was inadequate to provide 13. "In Northampton .. . " Lowell Daily Citizen and News (Lowell, MA) August for his family. 21, 1869. Tool Anecdotes - My Own Little Plane by John Wells This is a fictional story we can all relate to. When my dad let me come to I grew up in a small western town in the late 1930s. My the store with him, I would work my way over to the long dad was a carpenter, who built one or two small houses a row of counters where all of year and did a few small remodels and repairs in between. the carpenter's tools were on Sometimes I got to ride around with my dad in his pickup truck on Saturday, stopping at the lumber yard to place an display, and just look at them. order for doors, widows,M-WTCA.ORG or trim or just to size up the qual One Saturday morning, when my dad had placed a pretty ity of the framing lumber in the yard. big order for hardware, the store's owner Mr. Murray, came over to me, held out his closed fist and then opened Sometimes we went to the local hardware store to pick up it quickly. There it was, one of those cute little planes I hardware and other stuff for the current job. The hard had looked at so many times in the display stand on the ware store was a very exciting place. It had wood floors, counter. It was painted shiny black except the thing that small Delta woodworking machinery, and tons of other held the cutter in place was bright red. It was really neat, swell stuff. My dad told me all the best carpenter's tools a real beauty, the most wonderful thing I had ever seen! were Stanley planes, Disston saws, Marples chisels, He handed it to me. My face must have lit up. Then he said Yankee braces, and Russell Jennings bits. They were all I could have it if I promised to take good care of it. I was there hanging on the doors as well as in front of the shelves so happy, my eyes clouded up. My own little plane. It and behind the sales counters on one long wall. even had "STANLEY" on the cutter. September 2008 35 Craftsman of the Year, Martyl Pollak Honored by Museum of Early Trades & Crafts by April Lyzak Madison, NJ -The Board of Trustees of the The Craftsman of the Year award was established in 2002 Museum of Early Trades & Crafts honored as a means to honor New Jerseyans who have, in their own unique ways, significantly advanced the Museum's Martyl Pollak as Craftsman of the Year for mission to encourage an understanding and appreciation 2008 on Sunday, June 8th at the Museum. of the influence of America's past on our current lives by presenting and interpreting Martyl Pollack is the the history, culture and life Museum's seventh Craftsman ways of the ordinary people of of the Year. She was selected New Jersey. for her years of dedication in the preservation of valuable Visit our website for more historic information through information at www.metc.org. her publishing company Regular Museum admission is Astragal Press. With her late $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for sen husband, Martyl published iors, students & children six new books about Early and older, and free for mem American tools and has also bers and children under six. re-published old tool books Family maximum admission that have been out of print. $13.00. The Museum is open The Craftsman of the Year Tuesday- Saturday 10 A.M. to ceremony began with a brief 4 P.M. and Sunday Noon to 5 welcome from Museum P.M. Closed Monday Director, Andrew Sandall. It Housed in a 1900 was followed by Mary-Anna Richardsonian-Romanesque Holden, Mayor of the town of Revival building listed on the Madison, who presented National Register of Historic Martyl with a certificate and places, the Museum explores 18th- and 19th-century proclaimed June 8, 2008 "Martyl Pollak Day". Martyl was American history, with a focus on New Jersey. Drawing then given the Craftsman of the Year Award by Museum on its collection of over 8,000 hand tools and their prod Board Chair, Allen Black and expressed her sincere ucts, METC uses material culture to interpret the lives and thanks to all those who have supported her and the technologies of people who lived and worked before the Astragal Press over the years. rise of large-scale industrialization in this country. The Braving the heat, over sixty of Martyl's closest family, Museum offers visitors of all ages a broad range of chang friends, business associates and supporters, including ing exhibits, and related programs that address many Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen, came out to see facets of early American history, craftsmanship, and the her be honored. There were also three previous recipi diversity of trades performed by men and women. ents of the Craftsman of the Year award in attendance. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts received a General They included last year's winner, Herb Kean who was Operating Support Grant from the Borough of Madison, recognized for his expertise in period tools, the 2006 Charles Read Foundation, F.M. Kirby Foundation, Morris honoree restorationist CarmineM-WTCA.ORG Toto and former METC County Board of Chosen Freeholders and New Jersey trustee and Collections Manager, Malcolm Dick who was Historic Commission. chosen in 2004. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts is located at 9 While enjoying some light refreshments and the beautiful Main Street in the heart of downtown Madison, just two flower arrangements donated by J & M Home & Garden of blocks from the Madison train station. For information, Madison, guests watched authors Herb Kean and John please call 973-377-2982 xlO or visit our website at Whelan demonstrate and discuss various Early American www.metc.org. tools. These tools were features in their books published by Astragal Press, which can be found in the Museum's Library and gift shop. 36 The Gristmill More on Floor Board Gauges by Bob Roger Floor boards in old homes were of varying widths. The builders cut and used the widest boards they could from available stock, and a standard set of widths were required so boards of the same width could be fitted end to-end. The stepped floor board gauge was a tool for marking the boards so they could be cut to various but standard widths using all of the board width possible from each slab. Previous articles on this tool, which is often misidentified as a clapboard gauge, have focused on identifying its func tion and how it was used. Bopp 1 and Kebabian2 have pre sented definitive identification and, quoting from Peter Nicholson's "Mechanics' Companion" of 1842, describe exactly how it was used. Describing the making of floor Figure 1. An 18-step gauge boards, Nicholson wrote 'They should first be planed on their best face and set out to season till the sap is exhaust ed. They may then be planed smooth, and shot and squared on one edge. The opposite edges are brought to a breadth by drawing a line on the face parallel to the shot edge with a floor gauge.' Kebabian went even further, describing why it will not work as a clapboard gauge in laying up clapboards. I thought the research was complete. Then I obtained my second floor board gauge and noticed that while the two looked similar, they were not. Suddenly, the 'standard set of widths' words in my opening paragraph took on a new meaning. The gauge illustrated in Barton's 1873 catalog3 shows 12 different widths to choose from. My first gauge has 18 widths ranging from 4 5/8 inches to 8 5/16 inches in vary ing increments of 1/8, 3/16, or 1/4 inch. My second gauge has 8 widths from 6 1/2 to 9 inches in 1/4 or 3/8 inch incre ments. Of the combined 26 widths represented on the two gauges, only two are the same - the 6 1/2 inch width. A search of Martin Donnelly's auction catalogs from the past year revealed two more floor gauges. I could not Figure 2. An 8-step gauge above the 18-step gauge measure their widths, but one had 20 steps and the other had 11 steps. With five gauges all different, a preliminary conclusion is that whileM-WTCA.ORG each carpenter cut and used a References: standard set of floor board widths, that 'standard set' was 1. F1oor Board Gauges, Carl Bopp, The Chronicle of The Early American probably different for each carpenter. Industries Association, Sept. 1984, pg. 51 I am interested in further study of this aspect, so if you 2. The Floor Gauge, Paul B. Kebabian, The Chronicle of The Early American Industries Association, Sept. 1993, pg. 81 have a floor board gauge, please count and measure the widths on it and send them to me ([email protected]). 3. Mechanics' Tools, D. R. Barton & Co., 1873 Catalogue reprint, Ken Roberts Publishing Co., p. 17 My first gauge (Figure 1) marks widths from 45/8 to 8 5/16 inches. The scribe point is near the left end aspic tured, and the gauge is upside down from its opera tional position. September 2008 37 Tool Makers of Middletown, CT. by Dick Dickerson 6 This article is about some of the lesser lmown Middletown assigned to them ; a Gradual Lineal Measure Machine by 1 tool makers. In a book I was reading on Nathan Starr , Samuel C. Hubbard with patent number 17606 issued there was an article from the Constitution, a Middletown 6/16/1857. Both marks below are on try squares. newspaper dated May 21, 1856, about a fire that destroyed Charles C. Hubbard is in the 18607 census listed as a lumber the Starr factory. Two partnerships were renting space merchant, age 28 and born in North Carolina. In the 18708 there, Grover & Young and Libby & Jordan. Both were census he is listed as an edge tool and rule manufacturer. making rules and squares. Fred Hubbard is in the 18709 census as a hardware manu There are some tools made by Middletown makers that I facturer, age 36 and born in Connecticut. do not think I will ever see. Here are two of them. I did a Google search and found a Grover & Young sliding T 2 Bevel on fellow MWTCA member, Sandy Moss's site • I was able to obtain the T-Bevel and shown below is the mark. Notice the "14" in the center which represents the closed length of the square. Sandy also found another slid ing T-Bevel shortly after and I have that one also, marked "10". So far, no rules by either partnership have turned up. I have not found any other information on either partner Marked "C.C. HUBBARD ship. A search of the genealogical sites lists a few Grovers MIDDLETOWN CT" but none listed as tool makers. Some are listed as machin ists and one as a manufacturer, O.(Oliver)F. (Franklin) Grover, maker of printer's tools. Henry Young age 19 is listed as a rule maker in the 1850 census. James Tidgewell & Co. also, rented space at the Starr factory about 1850. Tewksbury and Tuttle are listed as makers of squares and bevels. They worked in the town part of Middletown.3 In addition, J. H. Arnold & Co. was listed as a square maker4 Marked "C. & F. HUBBARD but I have not seen or heard of any tools by these makers. MIDDLETOWN CT" A genealogical search found Ephraim Tuttle, age 51, in the 1860 census as a machinist. 5 I found no other information on either maker. If any member has information they wish to add please contact me. Also, see my web site for information on Middletown tool makers. http://www.angelfire.com/wy/mttools/MainPage.html 1. Prue, Bernard P Nathan Starr Arms. 1st. ed. Salem: Higginson Book Company, 1999. Page 183. 2. 38 The Gristmill ANTIQUE TOOL AUCTION St. Charles, MO, October 18, 2008 Harvester Lions Club 4835 Central School Road, St. Charles, MO 63304 Auction Starts Saturday at 9 AM (doors open at 7:30 AM) (preview Friday from 12 to 6:30 PM) Stanley Planes: FINE #2, 3, 3C, 4 in military box with 17-2 number on box, 4C, 4 1/2, 5, 5C, A5, 5 1/4C, 5 1/2C, 6, 6C, 7, 7C, 8, 8C, 12, 12 1/2, 26, 27, 39 1/2, 39 3/4, 40, 40 1/2, 45 (7 different; one in oak box), 46 (3), 48, 49, 50, 55 (2, one in orange box), 60 1/2, 65, 71, 71 1/2,, A78, 79, 80 scraper, 81, 90, 95, 98/99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 110, 112, 113 (2), 118, 120, 140, 190, 194, 203, 248-A IOB, 278, BEDROCK 605; Handyman H1205 in box. Other planes: Sargent plows (2), (2) Siegley #2 plows w/cutters ... Other Stanley Items: Rosewood panel gauge; marking gages; butt gauges; scrapers; catalogs, spoke shaves, #90 plumb & level in orig. pasteboard box; Stanley store sign. Wooden Planes: Several St. Louis marked wooden molders; 60+ additional molders inc. complex, dado, T&G, beads, hollows & rounds, four screw-arm plows; plus full range of wooden bench planes. Edge Tools: Large collection of timber fram ing tools inc. Slicks; adzes; axes, broad axes, hatchets, coopers tools; assortment of chisels, carving gouges; 20+ drawknives inc. 8 with folding handles. Levels: Cook's patent; Williamsburg, Keuffel & Esser compass & level; American Combined Level & Grade Finder; Starrett, Helb, many others. Saws: 20+ hand saws inc. early Disston, Atkins, Bishops, Wheeler; back saws, buck, crosscut, keyhole, saw sets, vises. Boring Tools: patented braces, breast drills, chain drill, push drills, hollow augers, dowel pointers, auger handles, auger bits, 'T augers, Yankee screwdrivers, Auctioneer: Vince Biermann push drills. Wrenches: 30 plus adjustable bicycle wrenches, numerous adjustable pipe & nut Vince Biermann Auction Service wrenches, unusual pliers, other wrenches. Ephemera: MWTCA tool catalog reprints; 4-book http://www.vbauctions.com/ set Knights Mechanical Dictionary reprints; 3-book set Appelton's Cyclopedia of Applied St. Peters, MO 63376 Mechanics reprints; 7-book set Colvin & Stanley metal-work & machine shop practices; NOS Phone: 636.379.8195 PTAMPIA VOL. I book by Smith. Treadle Tools: Barnes foot powered mortiser, Barnes pedal former, #5 metal lathe (incomplete) + short bed parts lathe, # 5 1/2 metal lathe mostly com Sale Manager: Mike Urness plete, pedal grinder, Companion lathe w jig saw attach, Millers Falls jig saw; power unit like Great Planes Trading Co. dentists/jewelers used. Misc: Woodworking work bench w/cabinet below; ballance-beam St. Louis, Missouri scale in walnut & glass case; original Diamond Edge store sign from Augusta, Missouri; Phone: 314.497. 7884 microscope in walnut box; H. Gerstner oak box; Walnut machinist box. Blacksmith Tools: [email protected] anvil, forge, leg vise, many tongs, 1870s schnitzel bank, tons more ... List with links to photos: http://homepage.mac.com/ratdaddy/Auction0ct08.htm Terms: Cash or good check. Master Card & Visa cards accepted for a 3% fee. A 10% buyers premium will be in effect. I TONY MORLAND INTERNATIONAL TOOL AUCTION Wednesday, October 15th 2008 at The Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket, Suffolk, England To view our International Tony Murland presents an outstanding International Auction of antique and usable Auction 2008 please go to woodworking tools (precededM-WTCA.ORG by a general tool auction of good user tools on October 14th) www.antiquetools.co. uk. To obtain the Oct. General Tool We have always been the pioneers in the marketing of tools so in this digital age, and with the days Auction catalogue which includes of "print only" being past, we are looking to reduce our carbon footprint by displaying the fine tools descriptions ( no pies) of the on offer in this year's International Auction on our new, updated website. : . just go to www.antique INTERNATIONAL LOTS tools.co.uk and click on the "International Auction" tag. Once again we are delighted to offer an please send USA $10 to: incredible selection of antique tools. We are privileged to have three exceptional Collections con TONY MORLAND AUCTIONS, signed to the sale which we feel will do justice to our new pioneering marketing approach ... rare 78 HIGH ST., NEEDHAM MARKET, NORRIS planes, a fantastic selection of infill planes, an array of high quality woodworking and carv SUFFOLK, IP6 SAW, UK ing chisels, an incredible collection of complex moulding planes, a scarce collection of various 18c Telephone: 011-44-1449 722992 tools, a fine selection of SPIERS planes including two totally unique, never before seen models, plus Fax: 011-44-1449 722683 our usual selection of quality tools ... and perhaps the highlight of this sale ... my personal collec Email: [email protected] tion of world class inlaid decorative spirit levels. September 2008 39 M-WTCA Auxiliary Lynne's Lines From The President, Lynne McCalla Hope everyone who attended the Erie, the hat). Susan did a great job as you would expect! We Pennsylvania National Meeting had a had one other program slot to fill. I chose the theme wonderful time! We could not have "Fancy Things for Fancy Ladies" (with the help of several asked for better weather, great accom past presidents and others, when we realized that we did modations and meeting space, things not have a hostess!). We now have a list of members who to do and friends to see. As Hostess have volunteered to give a program on a variety of sub for the meeting I especially want to jects. I thought that Frances Fite's program on perfume thank all the executive board ( see arti bottles seemed appropriate! She was set to do the pro cle in the Women's section) and our gram but, as often happens, life got in the way and she local member, Allene Gildea, for assisting in making this a was not able to come to Erie. Having asked Ann Boltz to great meeting for the Auxiliary. I need a little feedback on be the hostess for that session, we decided to go ahead the "Work, Play and Talk" activity. Not many people with the program, hoping that you all would bring some of attended - was the issue not knowing what the sessions your own. We would then just wing it with a few library were or just lack of interest? Do you want to continue books as resources. Sometimes a hostess has to loosen these sessions? What would you change about them? up and go with the flow! As luck would have it, our local How can we get more people to participate? Please email liaison, Allene Gildea had a friend (Josie Minutolo) who me at [email protected] with your comments. had an interesting hobby, just turned new business. She These comments will be especially helpful in planning agreed to do a program on her ocean glass and jewelry future meetings! making. She was new at speaking but everyone present got interested and lots of questions were asked giving us Q: So Lynne (with the white hat), what was it like being a an abundance of new knowledge! Another lesson learned: hostess from far away? things do work out! The Book Discussion takes care of A: Actually it was quite easy! To begin with, I had no local itself with Jeanne McDonald at the helm, supported by woman to work with for local ideas and general help! I Ann Boltz and Lorraine Lamond. I then took the four started with the slots we usually have for tours and pro "down times" and did some brainstorming. Our Social grams. Since a number of you had requested that we have Chair, Doris Hardy, had already planned a few things for less idle time and more activities in the questionnaires you the room and I brought several other ideas to the table. submitted several meetings ago, I identified the "down" Coordinating with the hotel planner, Christie and her times in our schedule. I contacted the men's hosts to see crew, we had the social room set up and ready to go! Yes, what they planned in terms of tours and program times. there were some frustrating times and the lack of commu One of the hosts knew a friend whose wife did programs nication was a problem, but it all worked out in the end. on quilts and lived in the vicinity. I called Gayle McKay of All hostesses have a person to turn to when troubles arise Mazon's Quilting and had a wonderful discussion with her or advice is needed. Our Program Chair is always there to about her business and speaking fees. I immediately knew hold your hand. you would love her, so I booked her for the program at our See, that was not so bad! If I can do it, you can too! Saturday luncheon. (I was not prepared for her unbeliev Maybe several in your area would like to help you. Please able artistry in quilting!!) We always have the Meet and let me know if you would like to give "hostessing" a try or Greet which includes a ShowM-WTCA.ORG and Tell and I asked Susan if you would like to volunteer to give a program. Contact Witzel to be the hostess for that program because she is me at [email protected] or 615-791-6198. the Membership Chair and recognizes the First Timers there. I did not want to be the hostess for every gathering See you in Decatur, IL on October 2-4! since you would see enough of me as President ( without Auxiliary Officers All materials for The Women's Auxiliary Pages should be sent to: President Lynne McCalla Vice President Judi Heckel Bill Kolm, Editor, The Gristmill Secretary Jane Giese 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623 Treasurer Barb Slasinski [email protected] 40 The Gristmill Meet and Greet by Judi Heckel The Auxiliary "Meet and Greet" session was filled with memorable finds and the introduction of eight first-timers. These ladies are posed in the picture from left to right: Sara Bostrom from Silver Spring MD, Jean Hubbs from Lancaster PA, Midge Hubay form Northwood OH, Sherri Stemple from Jasper MI, Janet Buttery from Brockport NY, Lynn Watson from Moon Township PA, Peg Davis from Urbanna VA, and Candy Fox from St. Cloud FL. Each first timer received a M-WTCA pin and shared per sonal information. There were many collectors in the group, and even those who did not have a personal collec tion visited antique shops in support of her husband's addiction. Collections included dolls, cookie jars, Civil War primitives, glassware, and even a set of china for each month of the year. Debbie Ferreira brought her 90-year old mother Helen to introduce to the group. Debbie's brother has written a book documenting Helen's immigration to America, strug gles with polio, and experiences with 69 foster children. What an amazing woman! After showing us the quilt top made from Don Tubman's flannel shirts several meeting ago, Sue Tubman Nelson shared the finished quilt. She really can finish a quilt! Peggy McBride told of a recent addition to her family of sewing machines. She now is the proud owner of a walnut Singer treadle parlor cabinet. Susan Witzel shared some recent additions to her spill holder collection. Phyllis Moffet told the story of a relative George Erickson, who illustrated for "The Saturday Evening Post" magazine. Phyllis showed some remarkable covers that were drawn under his pen name, Eugene Ivert. Annabel Ring displayed M-WTCA.ORGIndian necklaces purchased over 40 years ago for a very modest sum. Annabel still enjoys wearing them. Jean Hubbs brought an attractive garden tool, which she identified as one of the first sprinkling cans. Its operation was a clever use of the technology of the times. Jean Royal shared a lovely pin made by her It is amazing how we come from so many different areas brother. Jane Giese invited members to explore the near of the country and so many different sizes of towns and by tower and take advantage of the $3 trip to the top cities, yet how much each of us has in common. Just think where the view was magnificent. Joan Bunn encouraged how many have "dust" as a protective covering for our col each of us to research antiques for the best possible resale lectibles. value and shared personal experiences. September 2008 41 Experiencing a Little Piece of Heaven on Lake Erie by Kathy R. Hobbs Picture this: Perfect weather (75 degrees), not too hot, not too cold, - - just right, clear blue skies, calm fresh blue water, and 149 of your· closest tool friends all aboard a pristine, white paddlewheel ship aptly named the "Victorian Princess". The "Victorian Princess" featured two cov ered inside decks and one open deck on top, with great views from each. It was really nice to be able to walk around and visit people and catch the views from each deck. We had plenty of good food to eat and lots of time to mill around and catch up with our tool friends. I espe cially liked the freedom of walking from deck to deck and viewing Lake Erie from new perspectives, and watching the bright red paddlewheels tum as they guid ed us on our journey. It gave us all a unique look into the past and how our ancestors used their "tools" of the time that we experienced in Erie, PA on Wednesday night on the to travel the waters. Sunset Cruise that our hosts, Ron Pearson and Mark To top off the evening, ( as if it could get any better) was Eastlick arranged for us to do. It was just the beginning of watching an absolutely, gorgeous sunset on Lake Erie that a great tool meeting with all kinds of interesting things to was so beautiful that even the crew members were taking see and do, many of which centered around the maritime pictures! Life is so good! This is the "little piece of heaven" theme, which is what Erie, PA is all about. Ladies Auxiliary Luncheon June 14, 2008, Erie Pennsylvania by Jane Giese The shore of Lake Erie was some had replicas of water birds. These were given away just outside the room where as door prizes at the end of the program. the auxiliary luncheon was After lunch the business meeting was held. Reports were held. The theme for the meet given by the Secretary, Treasurer and all the Committee ing was "Fancy Things For Members. President Lynne McCalla thanked Allene Fancy Ladies" and each Gildea, a resident of Erie, for her help in making this meet woman was asked to wearM-WTCA.ORG a ing so successful. piece of jewelry that had a spe cial meaning for them. Some We were then treated to a quilt show by internationally pieces were old and some of known quilter, Gayle McKay. Gayle, the youngest of 6 chil the pieces were new, but each had a special meaning for dren started sewing out of necessity at the age of 8. She the person who wore it. stated she made her second quilt in 1997, and has been going strong ever since. Her quilts are truly works of art. After the introduction and invocation given by hostess, She does everything but the binding, on a sewing machine. Lynne McCalla, we had a delicious lunch consisting of a She does custom design long arm quilting and has won salad with a chicken breast and salad dressing, rolls and many awards for the quilts and her quilting. butter and for dessert a glass with sherbet and fruit. The tables were decorated with Lake Erie in mind. Some of Among the quilts she brought to share was a whole cloth the tables had large, colorful glass fish in the center and quilt with sea shells quilted on it, valued at $2,000. 42 The Gristmill On The Other Side of The Bed by Kathleen Holmes We have just returned from the tool meet in Erie, Pa. the beginning stages of labor. The story ( as well as the Cecil really enjoys, as you have probably already guessed, sequel, "Return to Trinity" was set in the 1800s. The story shopping for the elusive tool that will complete a particu line reflected some different terms that we use now. Both lar series of planes ( or whatever he is after at the books are an interesting look at life during that period of moment). history. Thanks to the gal who gave me the sequel, "Return to Trinity". There is always a sense of "family" within this group of tool enthusiasts. We rarely see some of these men and It is always fun for me to browse through the tool room women unless we see them at a tool show. I like to heck looking for any item that trips my interest trigger. At this le the men as they seem to fondle and lust after a specific show, I bought a bell that was used to summon help at the tool.. .. not always the same ones that Cecil seeks .... but desk of a hotel. It needs still with a keen sense of "wanting". a little cleaning up .... It was particularly but Cecil will do that for It was particularly nice at this show to see so many young nice at this show me .... good soul that he sters attending, some with a parent and some with grand is! We left Erie early to see so many fathers. Our friend Bob Nelson from northwest of Saturday morning. Our youngsters attending, Minneapolis, had his young grandson, Carter with him. son Jim called us on the Carter had a display of a collection of tools. I visited with some with a parent cell phone to warn us him about what he was showing. He could share about the and some with that Interstate 80 was age, the use and the history of each item in his display. I closed in places. So we gYandfathers. think Carter must have been about eight years old. He has took I-80 west until we caught his grandfather's disease of collecting tools. But picked up I-90 going up through Chicago. Many trucks what a neat way for a grandfather and grandson to share and other traffic had been rerouted because of the flood an interest! ing in Iowa on some of the Interstates. We drove home in The women always have a book discussion session at the one day. Cecil drove to Chicago and I drove on home to tool show. This year the book was "A Place Called Hudson, Iowa. Trinity" by Delia Parr. The main character in the book While it is always fun to go, it is nice to come home to was Martha a midwife. There were some terms used in sleep in our own bed! Saturday night I cuddled up with the story I had never heard before. One of them was Cecil, sleeping On The Other Side Of The Bed with great "teeming". Teeming was used to indicate that a woman contentment! was pregnant. The other term was used for the meal that had been prepared by the mother-to-be while she was in Ways & Means Committee by Miriam Seevers M-WTCA.ORG The book sales during the Erie, PA. national the emphasis we need to focus on should be the area meeting went well. Your response was terrific. meets. That is where I need your help. Please offer to sell Fiction, non-fiction, hard-backs, paperbacks pins in your area, wherever you find like-minded individu als. Let me know so I can mail some pins out to you. We there was something for evecyone, it seemed. are at the break-even point, so all that we sell now is pure The final figure was $189 for the Ladies Auxiliary. profit, after postage is deducted. That could be lessened by picking up pins at a national meeting. The sale of M-WTCA pins was not spectacular. Realizing the fact that probably most everyone that attends a On October 2, 3 & 4 in Decatur, Illinois, bring your books national meeting has a pin ( or two) in their possession, and an order for pins. Help the Ladies Auxiliary! September 2008 43 Lest We Forget by Bob Roger Lest We Forget is a series of short articles, each about a tool or implement that was once a common household, farm, or trade necessity, but whose use or existence may soon be forgotten. Scythes My great uncle Peter, a German immigrant, spent his life as an estate manager in northwestern Connecticut. When he retired he came to live with us. He was an expert with the scythe, and when I was 11 or so he took me out back to the Above, left - dengelshtock (center), hammer, and rifle in field and taught me to mow with a scythe. Mowing the field became one of my chores, and he would sit, watch, and horn carrier. The dengelshtock is a small anvil whose point is driven into a stump and the scythe blade is sharpened by advise. I learned well how to use an American bent snath scythe with a heavy blade, how to adjust the grips, how to use peening with the hammer. Using a dengelshtock with a flat a 'rifle' to hone the blade, and how to lay a straight windrow surface, the back of the blade is laid on the anvil and peened with the peen edge of the hammer. With a dengelshtock hav with little effort. Scything is a twisting rhythm, and becomes natural and nearly effortless when done properly. ing a peen surface ( one that comes to a narrow, rounded edge like the one shown), the blade is turned face down and Shortly after WWD, my family sponsored a Polish immigrant, the back of the blade hammered with the flat face of the Albert, helping him get a job, learn English, establish a bank hammer. The horn contains water to keep the rifle (whet account, buy land, and build a house nearby. One day he saw stone) clean of filings, and it hooks over your belt on your me mowing aind explained as best he could to my father that left side when mowing. we needed to obtain an Austrian grass blade for the scythe. The two sythes shown are a bent snath (top) with a heavy We bought a new one, and Albert took it home, got out his dengelshtock and peen hammer, and began the long process weed or brush blade, and a straight snath with a light grass of sharpening the new blade by drawing it out to a razor edge. blade. A sythe has several adjustments that must be made for the individual user, starting with the angle the blade makes For over a week or so, as he had time, I watched him peening the blade - a process new to me. When he finished, I found I with the snath, and the position and angle of each of the two grips. With a properly adjusted and made sythe, mowing is was able to mow the lawn with the new scythe blade as close almost effortless. If not, you are in for a long day. Tresemer's and even as the lawnmower could - what an improvement bookl explains everything about making the adjustments and that blade was! how to use a scythe, so I will not discuss it further here. I still remember well those lessons of Peter and Albert, and how as a 12 year old I could mow all day. And the scars on my right index finger continue to remind me how not to rifle a blade! Reference Above, an Austrian 'grass' blade 1. 'The Scythe Book', David Tresemer, Alan C. Hood & Co., Inc., Chambersburg, PA 1996 M-WTCA.ORG Tool Family Trees by Bob Roger Shown to the right is a set of 3 tools that have a common con nection to each other. Can you figure out what the connec tion is for the three tools? If you need a hint on this set think "bouquet". The answer to this intriguing Tool Family Tree can be found on Page 50. 44 The Gristmill What's It The items and their pictures will be identified by the issue Previous Items Identified number of the Gristmill it first appeared in and their order listed in that issue. Fig. 125-3 from Dec. 06 has been identified. Fig. 132-1 ;c ;c ~ 2! :;: )> 2 ~ - :1.0_ It is a clamp used to apply "thimbles" to the ends of cable on earlier aircraft. Still used today by pilots and mechanics of vintage aircraft. Fig. 131-3 from June 08 has been identified. Fig.132-1. Two items from NC are pictured. This one is Jilfnt4 approx. 6" by 4", one knob adjusts width of opening and the Jf;, gg P.RI )}J!flP!f.liitlrkl ~.l;N" ~r. /o. /trf7~ other adjusts a guide (for unknown purpose). The parts of the jaws close to pivot point are sharp, but the outer parts are dull and their faces do not line-up 100% when closed. Fig. 132-2 M-WTCA.ORGIHJ16lttD.l'. J.f\,_1{~~ It is used as a bracket to support scaffolding when re-roofing Fig. 132-2. This item is also approx. 6" by 4", and pierces a building. holes about the size of a medium sewing nee-dle. The item Remember: This column is for you, and cannot be done with is inserted into the 1/16 in open jaws on the top and when out you. Please keep sending your answers and ideas, handle is squeezed, two small sharp pins come up from the for future "what's its", or suggestions to: Virginia White, bottom and pierce. Not only are the holes quite small, but PO Box 1418, Angels Camp, CA 95222 Phone (209) 728-2142. there is only a I/16th inch space between the two holes. On E-mail: [email protected] the side is stamped "Young's Patent". September 2008 45 Collection Spotlight by Dave Heckel Dave Fessler started collecting in 1978 when his grand the house," Connie related. Now their home contains father gave him a couple of old Disston saws to use in his many fine and scarce tools, all tastefully displayed. carpentry business. He found out that these older saws The collection grew to fill the beautiful oak display cabi had better steel in them and therefore they worked better nets. Dave said, "I like oddball tools, the more eclectic the and kept their sharpness longer. Dave began accumulating better." Besides the levels and surveying instruments, levels as they were inexpensive at the time and that was a Dave also has a varied collection of planes, rules, and way to acquire a lot of levels for not a lot of money. At his other woodworking tools. Many of the tools are housed in first M-WTCA meeting in St. Louis, MO in 1986, he pur an antique dentist's cabinet. chased 20 levels for $100. Dave's collection has some unusual plumb bobs with The collection grew with the acquisition of surveying internal winding mechanisms and automatic string tools and instruments. Dave bought a transit/compass at winders. "The more esthetic the bob is, the more inter the Albuquerque Flea Market. That was the beginning of est there is in it," explained Dave. The transom insert that part of the collection. When Dave & Connie built their over their office door hoods a display of some "esthetic" house together, "Dave got the display cabinets and I got plumb bobs. M-WTCA.ORG 46 The Gristmill A large cabinet holds an impressive balance scale that The large telescope was made in 1890 by the Broadhurst was used at Los Alamos, NM during the Manhattan & Clarkston Company of London, England. It was used Project. It was used to weigh the plutonium that went on a Colorado ranch where the former owner used it to into the atomic bombs of World War II. The scale is accu see company coming up to the ranch from the road which rate to 1/1000th of a gram. was miles away. "I've had a good time collecting tools, and met a lot of good people and made many friends," commented Dave. M-WTCA.ORG September 2008 47 DAVID STANLEY AUCTIONS 52nd INTERNATIONAL AUCTION approx 1000 Lots of Quality Antique Woodworking and Allied Trades Tools on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th 2008 At the Bretby Conference Centre, Nr Burton upon Trent, England 18th Century Alsatian scrub plane 16 Norris planes including one of the rarest, Dutch blokschaaf dated 1787 with tilting handles, a 281/i'' jointer and adjustable brass bu/lnose and thumb planes ------1-. ' . ~-·- - ' - ,I> Unique 15" Mathieson level. Another by Preston. Woood brace ex Gilbert Moisset 18th Century armourers saw. Collection sold in Arnold & Walker catalogue No. 4. Rarest Mathieson solid frame Trepanning braces. brace. Cowell & Chapman plow plane. Preston fish measuring rule and net gauge. Dated 17th Century dividers. Also to include • The final (and best) portion of the Richard Maude collection • Many fine quality, early European tools • A fine boxwood brace by Holtzapffel and brass framed braces • Chisels, gouges, rules, levels, plumb bobs, trammels, axes, adzes, saws, early and wide moulders, metal planes, medical tools, books and • A good collection of Stanley and Record planes catalogues etc. The entire catalog of 1000 lots available ON-LINE 3 weeks prior with full absentee bidding instructions at: M-WTCA.ORGwww.the-saleroom.com Also fully illustrated colour catalog includes estimated prices, condition coding, postal bidding instructions & prices realised list after the sale. $35 from The Mechanicks Workbench, P.O. Box 420, Marion, Mass. 02738 USA. USA Tel: (508) 748-1680 E-mail: [email protected] or Australia and New Zealand for £24 from David Stanley Auctions, Osgathorpe, Leics. LE12 9SR England from Australia Tel: 00-11-44-1530 222320 New 7,ealandTel: 00-44-1530 222320 E-mail [email protected] quoting your mailing address and credit card details. Unique Spiers rebate plane, Preston rebate plane and Norris adjustable thumb plane Visit our web site at www.davidstanley.com Collection of candle snuffers and wick trimmers 48 The G ristmill Darley's Barn 2 Day Auction Located: From Ft. Wayne, IN. take US.30 west past SR 109 in Columbia City, IN. to Lincolnway St. turn left to 4-H Community Building Friday Nov.14, 2008 starting 9:00AM & Saturday Nov.15, 2008, starting 8:30AM * As stated in the last issue of the Gristmill, after this years Area F Darley's Barn meeting on Sunday August 24th the lights will go out and the curtain will come down after a run of 29 years. Everything will be sold at auction on Nov.14 & 15 with lots of rare museum quality tools and primitives. *Items to be sold Friday Nov. 14 starting at 9:00AM** * Portable Chuck Wagon Pantry * Floor Model Coffee Grinder * Primitive Wash Machines * Lots of Kitchen Primitives * Primitive Furniture * Cast Iron Heating & Cook Stoves * Humphery Gas Street Lamp* Collection of Other Lamps * Dental & Barber Misc. * Rulmonica Player Harmonica with 27+ Music Rolls * Pump Organ ------* Many more items to be sold Friday, too numerous to mention **Items to be sold Saturday starting at 8:30AM** * Adv. Signs* Copper Bath Tub* Lots & Lots of Farm Primitives * Camel Leg Hobbles * Wagon Stove * Early all Wooden Hand Grain Rake with Wheels * Table Top Pea Thresher * 1 Horse Corn Mulcher with Sun Shade * Collection of Large Bells * German Goosewing Axe * Antique & Primitive Tools * 2 Man Coach Makers Saw * Hand Crank Bed Spring Maker * Connecticut Hane Adze * Wheel Wright Tools * Blacksmith Tools * Logging & Lumber Tools * Planes - Wooden & Stanley * Coopers Tools * Foot Powered Tools * Carpenters Tools * Harness Makers Tools * Shipwrights Tools * Drawknives * Axes * Adzes * Saws * Vices *Planes * Augers * Drills * & Lots More ***This is a very abbreviated Ad for both days*** For a full color flyer contact the auctioneers after Oct. 1 You may view a detailed list with lots of pictures on www.Auctionzip.com, Auctioneers 10#11841 , after Oct. 1 M-WTCA.ORGThere will be lodging listed on the full color flyer or website Darley's Barn of Primitives - Owner Auctioneers: Chupp Auctions & Real Estate LCC 574-536-8005 "We Specialize in Your Auction" Lyle Chupp Dale Chupp #AU08800826 #AU19800030 September 2008 49 Henry Di sston Puzz I e ... ur ancestors kept their ANSWERS The crossword puzzle is on the inside of the back wrap, 'A 2c; 3s H I p AND NO CHEATING. •c y A ~ B 0 L 0 ~ !!!_ I M w i._ l' L u M B E R s my )s K E w I ~ J_ l' R u N I N G if" u D if" A 't E E T H I 'f< E R I~ '1 N s E R T E D !_ J_ J:.._ :[ L I s _Q_ .!!._ £_ 'c R 0 s s 't u T 0 T u _Q_ l!._ _Q_ 0 'c R u C I B L E M ~ ~ 'N I B p p J_ .!!__ ~ 'A L E £ !_ f"" 2b N !_ R ~ l._ ~ p - It 0 I N G -R ~ s J_ J_ J:.._ r t I s s T 0 N i._ V N J_ s t A N D I 3,- ,. p I L L E R £ R I u M H N 1 r uifonrwtion. to find a. deakr in ~ T 0 f: I L E s .. a, or to pl<1.et• un order. con..tn,,.t. ~ 0 N A R C 3FJ J:.._ JOHN T. KRAME R J_ ~ P. o. Box 8715/Sugat Creek, MO 64054 t 0 D y _Q__ (816} 252-9512 .Q_ !._ kramer•r.,kumerize.com ~ www.kramt.~:ri:ze.com .lo-PAGJ<..: BOOK OF INS l"RlJC110NS &. US.BS FREE WffU PVRCIIASE. Tool Family Trees Answers These are all cork-pulling tools. The rare knife steel is The multi-tool, also shown in Figure 11, contains several other marked John Petty & Sons, Sheffield and contains a bits in its handle and the mounted bit is a left-handed cork corkscrew in its handle, as shown in Figure 10. remover. The head of the remover is inserted between the cork and the bottle and pushed in until it is below the cork It is then turned counter-clockwise 90 degrees so it protrudes beneath the cork, and the cork is pulled out. The long, two-pronged cork puller uses the handle to push the cork into the bottle, and then the prongs are slipped into the bottle until they encircle the cork lengthwise, and the cork is pulled out of the bottle. Note how the tips of the prongs fit M-WTCA.ORGtogether, as shown in Figure 12. Figure 10. Corkscrew in handle .. "" ~ ~"' '"' _- ~~--:'- -T -,,. .,.,..,,,,,,,.,. ""~ - - ~ Figure 11. Left-handed cork remover Figure 12. Tips of cork puller 50 The Gristmill Marketplace Wanted Wanted Wanted WANTED: Winchester items, tools, WANTED: Wooden Bottom Planes in WANTED: Tools of any sort made by sporting goods or advertising. No restorable condition and/or for parts. the Sandusky Tool Co. I don't have firearms. Collections or pieces OK. My interest is repair and cleanup of them all yet! Also, catalogs, advertis Please advise price and condition. these for appearance not value. Also ing and related material. John David McDonald, 14211 Kellywood need source for handles (tote) and Walkowiak, 3452 Humboldt Ave., Lane, Houston, TX 77079 (281) 558- knobs, original or reproductions. Minneapolis, MN 55408 (612) 824- 5236 [email protected] James Hansen, 2378 W. Hansen Rd. [email protected] Wilcox, AZ. 85643. Phone 520-384-9173, WANTED: Main rod for Prime&McKean Cell 520-507-5184, Fax 520-384-3347. gauging rod. These rods are nickel plated brass with a square cross-sec WANTED: Instructions photocopy for tion and a wedge-shaped tip, and are Starrett No.101 "Transit". See American stamped all over with scales and Levels by Rosebrook. Bart Kister, 7560 tables for gauging barrels and casks. Morningside Dr., Indianapolis, IN. Either of the two sizes is wanted, 46240 317-251-1381 either 3-1/2 feet by 3/8 inch, or 5-1/2 feet by 7/16 inch. Other parts Gaws, slides, etc.) not needed. Will pay good YOU'VE money for reasonably clean example. Contact Philip Stanley, 36 Stockton GOT TOOLS Street, #2, Worcester MA. (508) 754- 6535, [email protected] Advertising Information WINCHESTER collector wants: "Armax", "Barney & Berry", ISSUE COPY DEADLINE DISPLAY ADS - RATES "Crusader", "Hendryx" items & shot March January 10 Size Cost Word Limit shell boxes with HARDWARE STORE June April 10 Full page, 4-color, September July 10 (when available) $275 900 name. Tim Melcher 918. 786.8500, December October 10 Full page $180 900 email:[email protected] Half page $105 450 www.thewinchesterstore.com CLASSIFIED ADS - RATES Quarter page* $60 225 $ .18 per word - AIL words. Other sizes $9.50 per column inc~ $3.50 minimum per ad. (1 column approx. 2-1/4 11 wide.) 25 word limit. Always buying Alwa)'I Selling Pete Niederberger NEW POLICY: The Gristmill will no longer accept advertising for a date sensitive Used and Antique Toob and event, that will occur during the month of The Gristmill's publication. For example, an Parts for Same ad for an auction on March 25th that is to be placed in the March issue. Mail Order Call Me and Come to the Shop 415-924--8403 pniederber@aoLcom * For layout purposes, all quarter page ads must be the following size. 3 1/2" wide X 4 7/8" tall. Custom MAKERS STAMPS Typesetting and borders are not included in the page rates. Special artwork will be Plane Makers FloatsM-WTCA.ORG charged at cost. We must have a sketch or rough drawing indicating how you want your ad laid out. Camera Ready ads are accepted at no additional charge. Chisels - Irons t more Send for brochures For your protection and complete satisfaction, ALL ads should be typewritten and dou MAZZAGLIA TOOLS ble-spaced. If this is not possible, please PRINT legibly. 12 Palmer St. Salem, NH 03079 Payment must accompany ad. Make checks payable to M-WTCA. At this time, advertis ing will be accepted only from M-WTCA members in good standing. For information and A-1 LEVEL REPAIR membership application, contact John Walkowiak or one of the officers whose address Most brands repaired and restored is shown on the inside front cover of this publication. Bob and Diane Skogman 18639 - 327th Ave . Isle, MN 56342-4784 Send all ads to: Bill Kolm 3105 Cottonwood Lane, Omaha, NE 68134-4623, phone Phone: 1-320-684-2078 ( 402) 572-1238, E-Mail [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.a1levelrepair.com "WE'RE ON THE LEVEL!" September 2008 51 Brown Auction Services 33rd INTERNATIONAL ANTIQUE TOOL SALE & AUCTION SHERATON INN HARRISBURG, PA October 24 & 25, 2008 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM starts at 8:30 a.m. on Friday morning. This year's program features Robin Lee of Lee Valley Tools. Robin will be speaking on modem hand-tool manufacturing. THE DEALER SALE is on Friday and features dealers from across the country, Canada, and England. With about 100 tables of the finest antique and usable tools available in one place, at one time, this is the largest non-club show in the United States. Many of our dealers save the best just for the show. So don't miss out, come on down and take advantage of the sale and camaraderie. Show opens at 1 :00 p.m. Friday. No show on Saturday. THE AUCTION on Saturday features Doug & Lorene Cunningham's W. F. & John Barnes Collection of Foot-Powered Machinery including many rare machines in top condition plus the Barnes Factory Clock. Rufus Porter Inclinometer. E.W. Carpenter Improved Arms Filletster and Handled Plow. Ebony plow with ivory nuts and washers. Pianomaker's Chest with many tools. Stanley Model Shop prototypes by Traut and others. Nearly complete collection of Stanley planes and many other tools of all types including many items in the original boxes. Inclinometers and levels. Plow planes in rosewood, boxwood, and ebony; many with ivory. Large selection of ivory and boxwood rules. 18th-century wooden planes including S. Doggett panel raiser, R. Wooding, S. Pomeroy, Sleeper, and many other rare marks. Patented planes by Manning, Bailey, Phillips, Rust, Boss, Morris, Phelps, Fales, Sargent, Traut, Silcock, Miller, and many others. Patented braces and drills. English mitre and infill planes. Goosewing axes by Rohrbach and others. Log calipers and rules. And, a good selection of high-quality box lots. More than 770 lots. All offered for your consideration without reservations or reserves. ORDER BOTH 2008 CATALOGS. The 32nd and 33 rd International Auctions. The 32nd mails LARGE ILLUSTRATED CATALOG #33 mails early at time of order, 33rd early Sept. Just $50 US & Sept. All tools fully described and accurately graded with es CANADA, $60 US for Overseas Airmail. Includes timates. Prices Realized mailed promptly after auction. Many Prices Realized. items illustrated in full color. All items have photos. Absentee bidding available. To reserve your copy, call, write, email, or fax us today at: Catalog $28 for US and Canadian addresses. BrownM-WTCA.ORG Auctions $34 US for Overseas Airmail. 27 Fickett Road Pownal, ME 04069 1 (800) 248-8114 Fax (207) 688-4831 Email: [email protected] Order a catalog or view items online at www.FineTooIJ.com/Browns It is plane to see who sells the best! Sheraton Inn (717) 561-2800. Be sure to ask for the special room rate.