THE ROBBINS & MYERS COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
The Robbins & Myers Company owes its existence to the financial difficulties of a machinist who had a small job shop in Springfield, Ohio back in the seventies. Chandler Robbins had advanced this machinist a small sum of money, about $500,000 and in 1877 he bought the shop to save his investment. A year later, J. A. Myers, who was in the grocery business in Springfield, bought an interest in the shop, and the Robbins & Myers Company came into existence under its present name.
The original shop was located near what is now the retail center of the city. In 1881, two acres of land were purchased by the company in the northeastern part of the city and the factory was moved to this site. Additions were made from time to time until the entire site was occupied by a machine shop and foundry buildings, the company having added a job foundry business to the machine shop business.
In the early nineties the management of the company began to give some thought to the proposition of manufacturing and marketing some product under their own name along with their job business. Various articles were investigated and in 1897 a start was made in the electrical line.
At this time, the electric fan had become recognized as a promising commercial product, and the company decided to take up the manufacture of fans. The first fan manufactured was a direct current ceiling fan. That this fan was a success is evidenced not only by the rapid growth of this business, but also by the fact that these first fans are still found in operation giving good service in all sections of the country. Oscillating and non-oscillating desk fans and small ventilating fans were added to the line; and a little later a complete line of alternating current fans were added to the direct current line.
In 1899 the manufacture of electric motors for general power service, and small electric generators was begun. The demand for these products increased so rapidly that the original job foundry and machine shop business was entirely supplanted by the motor and fan business. Additional land was purchased from time to time and new buildings were added. Within the past decade all of the original buildings have been displaced and the entire plant is now housed in modern buildings of concrete and steel construction.
In addition to the standard lines of alternating and direct current motors for general power service, the Robbins & Myers Company specializes in the production of special motors for manufacture of electric-driven machines, such as vacuum cleaners, washing machines, adding machines, addressing machines, meat choppers, automobile starters, and scores of other electric-driven machines for the home, office, store, and factory, which these machines perform. Hundreds of the leading manufacturers of such machines use Robbins & Myers motors and their requirements amount to hundreds of thousands of units annually.
By developing motors for such special machines, the Robbins & Myers Company has been one of the chief factors in the development of the many electric-driven devices now used in the home, office, store, and factory. As a co-worker with the manufacturers in developing these devices, the Robbins & Myers Company had had much to do with the success of these electric-driven devices, and the growth of this branch of the company’s motor business has naturally paralleled the growth in demand for these articles.
As a company which has used advertising as a dominant factor in their merchandising plans, it is interesting to record that the Robbins & Myers Company was also the first of the electrical manufacturers to advertise their products to the general public through national magazines of general circulation.
Up until about ten years ago, electrical manufacturers had confined their advertising to technical and trade papers and direct advertising to the trade and users of the product. It was generally believed by these manufacturers that it would not be practical to advertise such highly technical products as their manufacturers to the general public. The officers of the Robbins & Myers Company did not share in this opinion however, and in the face of much adverse advice, blazed the way for the tremendous volume of general advertising which is now done by the electrical industry. The wisdom of this step is shown not alone by the growth of the Robbins & Myers Company, having grown from a company with a capitalization of $88,000 to one with a capitalization of $5,000,000 during their ten years as national advertisers, but also by the influence general advertising has had upon the growth of the entire electrical industry, every branch of which now uses such advertising as a prominent feature of their merchandising campaigns.
In 1901 the Robbins interests were purchased by Mr. J. A. Myers and Mr. C. F. McGilvray, who was employed by the company as foundry superintendent. Upon the death of Mr. J. A. Myers in 1904, Mr. McGilvray and the two sons of Mr. J. A. Myers – W. J. Myers and W. A. Myers – succeeded to the management of the company. The present officers are: C. F. McGilvray, president; W. J. Myers, vice president; W. A. Myers, secretary; and H. E. Freeman, treasurer.
We want to say for the Robbins & Myers Company that they have always been regarded as friendly to the cause of organized labor and they have cooperated with their employes in a way to completely win their confidence. The finest spirit of cooperation possible exists between employer and employe at this well known plant.
Working people make no mistake in giving their support to this well known enterprise and as long as its affairs are conducted in the present commendable manner, we wish for it an era of increasing success and popularity.
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THE SUPERIOR GAS ENGINE COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
We want to call particular attention to the above mentioned concern, which is generally regarded as one of the best known and most efficiently operated in southern Ohio. It is, withal, a first class enterprise which was organized in the year 1889 and has developed a reputation for high class work that is second to none in this section of the state. At the present time the concern gives employment to three hundred and twenty-five persons and they make gas, gasoline, and oil engines.
It might be well to mention just here, because we might forget to mention it later on and we do not want to, that the Superior Gas Engine Company is known far and wide as a concern that is especially friendly to the cause of organized labor and the splendid cooperation which exists between employer and employes is reflected in the character of the product which the company turns out for its ever-increasing trade.
P. J. Shouvlin is the proprietor of this establishment and we want to say for him that he is one of the best known citizens of Springfield. His name and reputation have been linked with this company for many years and it is with a great deal of pleasure that we recommend Mr. Shouvlin and his concern to our friends both in Springfield and throughout the Miami Valley. He has given his business his personal and undivided attention at all times with the result that when you buy any of this concern’s products you are getting a product that the skill and brains of many years of experience have been able to produce.
The use of gas, gasoline, and oil engines is constantly on the increase in this country, the more so since the nation became identified in a very positive way with the great European War. Engines of this kind have furnished a very vital part of the Great War equipment and machines especially built as these “Superior” engines are built commend themselves in a very decided way to the careful, conscientious buyer. We want to say in behalf of the above mentioned concern that you will go a long ways without finding a plant so well equipped in every respect and as modern as the Superior Gas Engine Company. It has kept fully abreast of the times at all times and the proprietor has stood in the forefront of all commercial development in the city of Springfield. His concern is known and generally admired throughout the entire Miami Valley because it is known to be an aggressive, active enterprise with reliability and good service as the paramount principles in its development.
In the industrial life of this nation as we know it today a manufacturer must present to those with whom he does business, an article that is beyond any question competent to meet any test that may be made of it and meet every requirement of the trade. We are glad to say that the products of the Superior Gas Engine Company are first class, efficient, and reliable in every respect. They are made right and sold right, and they are guaranteed to do the things they are made to do, in the right sort of way. Mr. Shouvlin is a gentleman who may be depended upon to do just as he says he will do. He takes a personal interest in seeing that his trade is well looked after and he insists upon all things being done to satisfy his customers. We want our friends among the labor union boys and those who are interested in the matter of investing in gas, gasoline, or oil engines, to give this concern a liberal share of their business. We know you will be satisfied with your purchase. Here is a great industrial institution that has brought fame and honor to Springfield.
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THE WESTERN FOUNDRY & MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Sigler and Pleasant Street, Springfield
In the bestowing of the credit for the upbuilding of Springfield in an industrial way, this large and growing foundry and manufacturing plant should be given a great deal of consideration. Established for five years, the company has maintained steady and substantial growth which promises great things for the future. At the present time, upwards of 30 men are given steady employment at the foundry, which is one of the most modern and best equipped of its kind in the state. Products of the foundry include gray, white, and semi-steel castings, of superior quality and workmanship. The trade has learned to know that when it wants the best in the way of castings, the price list of the well-organized Springfield concern should first be consulted. Officials of the company are: John C. Howell, president; Harry E. Simmendinger, vice president; and Clarence O. Lutz, secretary and treasurer. These men are widely and favorably known in the business and industrial circles of Springfield. They have always been friendly toward the boys in every way and are always willing to aid and promote everything for their betterment. As a result, their workmen take pleasure in exhibiting the utmost cooperation at the foundry, which in turn leads to the production of high grade products. Equipment of the foundry is of the latest type. Shipping facilities are of the kind that enable the company to make all deliveries on schedule time. The price list of the concern is one that cannot be improved upon by the efforts of competitors. Those are some of the reasons why we are predicting a very successful future for this company.
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THE SPRINGFIELD COFFIN AND CASKET COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
This concern was established in the year 1888 and gives employment to thirty-five persons. It is one of the oldest, if not the oldest company engaged in a similar line in Ohio. George H. Mellen is the president; F. M. Krapp is vice president; C. M. Bennett, secretary; and A. M. Spinning, manager and treasurer. The Springfield Coffin and Casket Company manufactures and is engaged in the jobbing business of fine cloth-covered caskets, robes, linings, hardware, etc. We want to call especial attention to the fact that the above mentioned concern is one of the best equipped and most modern in this section of the country. The men who comprise the official list at the company are all men of recognized merit, worth and reliability in this city and we haven’t the slightest hesitancy in recommending the concern to the trade. Its past successes augur will for a successful future and the company has kept fully abreast of the times in the line of modern methods of workmanship. In fact, it would be a most difficult thing to find a company better fitted for handling first class orders than the Springfield Coffin and Casket Company. It is in a class all to itself.
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MAST, FOOS, & COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
This concern was established thirty-eight years ago and now gives employment to seventy-five persons. It manufactures Buckeye hand pumps, power pumps, lawn mowers, iron fencing and Imperial windmills. The character of its products is especially well known to the trade in all parts of this country and it is scarcely necessary to devote space to this purpose here. Suffice it to say an ever-increasing demand for its products has necessitated a larger output and the concern is enjoying a prosperous career. W. H. Rayner is president; W. F. Foos, vice president; and F. R. Burton, secretary and treasurer.
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THE RIDGELY TRIMMER COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
The Ridgely trademark is guaranteed sufficient of quality and service and means that the customer is getting the best in the market when he purchases steel wool, blow torches, and wire brushes made by this company. Established in 1885, the Ridgely Trimmer Company now gives steady employment to nearly 150 skilled workmen. In the movement recently started among our working people to give their combined support and patronage to those concerns and business men that have shown the proper interest in the welfare of labor, we desire to call particular attention to this concern, which is in every way deserving of the earnest support and unrestricted patronage and heart good will of every member and loyal citizen. This enterprise is heartily in sympathy with the labor movement when properly conducted and does not oppose the broad underlying principles of organized labor. They have shown themselves to be manifestly fair-minded and public spirited, and deserve the proper recognition in this review of honorably conducted enterprises in our midst, worthy of our hearty cooperation and support. Owing to the honorable and public-spirited methods of its dealing, the Ridgely Trimmer Company has built up a large and substantial business, which gives every promise of rapidly increasing as the years go by. Equipment of the modern and up-to-date plant, covering several acres, is of the latest and most approved type, enabling the company to meet on schedule time the unusually large demand for its products, which are sold in all parts of the world. Every detail of the business has been systematized, with the result that all orders are satisfactorily taken care of and shipments made when the customer wants them and not at the will of a disorganized shipping department, such as is found in some plants. Other products of the company in addition to steel wool, blow torches, and wire brushes are glaziers, paints, glass cutters, wall paper trimmers, putty knives, painters’ and paper hangers’ tools and supplies of all kinds, and hardware specialties. “Ridgely” quality is found in every product of the concern. Officials of the company are known far and wide for their honest and square business dealings and their progressiveness. All are leaders in Springfield business circles and play a prominent part in furthering the civic interests of the thriving industrial city. So pronounced has been their friendliness to the cause of labor that it is worthy of repetition at this point. The fullest cooperation exists at the plant between employes and officials. Showing the magnitude of the concern’s business it is only necessary to state that branch offices are operated in London, England, and in Melbourne, Australia. An international demand is experienced for the products of the company. Foreign orders are placed under the cable address, “Ridge.” The Western Union code is used. To look after the business in the eastern part of the United States, an office and warehouse is maintained at 153 Hudson Street, New York. Working people make no mistake in giving their support to this well known enterprise.
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THE TRUMP MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Greenmount and Columbus Avenues, Springfield
High grade water power machinery forms the principal product of this old and reliable Springfield manufacturing concern. In using the words “high grade” they should be taken to mean all that the expression implies for as far as quality and reliability goes, there are no better machines than those produced by the Trump Manufacturing Company. Years of experience, the company has been established now for 27 years, have placed the plant in a position of supremacy in its particular line. The familiar trademark of the establishment, a hand full of Trump cards, tells better than anything else the feeling of the user of this water power machinery – he known it cannot be beaten. Approximately 75 skilled workmen are given employment at the large and up-to-date factory, equipped with all the latest devices for successfully producing water turbines, motors, and similar machinery. Owing to the fair attitudes which officials of the concern have always assumed toward the cause of labor, the greatest spirit of cooperation is found existing at the factory among the workmen and employer. It is only just to say in regard to the officials that they are everywhere regarded as leaders in their industry and are pronounced successful business men, popular among their associates, friends, and employes. A large corps of trained hydraulic engineers is employed by the company to improve its products and give advice to prospective buyers. Trump machinery is used and sold the world over, placing Springfield prominently on the industrial map in every locality in which water power machinery is used. The cable address of the company is “Trump Springfield.” Western Union, A. B. C., 4th edition and private codes are used in transacting the business of the firm. Continued success is freely predicted for this company.
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THE KELLY-SPRINGFIELD MOTOR TRUCK COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
The worth of a business or industrial concern to a community is judged by the product which it produces. If it is a product of superior worth, it easily gains the public confidence and the demand increases and grows to such an extent that the city in which this concern is established shares in the good feeling and splendid reputation which the company has established. If the product be of inferior worth, the reverse is true. We are glad to say in this connection, and just at this time, that the Kelly-Springfield Motor Truck Company is a long established, reliable, meritorious enterprise which has gained an international reputation for reliable products.
Established twelve years ago this concern has grown by leaps and bounds; so great in fact that from time to time additions have been required to enable persons and the motor trucks which it makes. The trucks which it makes have made for the company a name that is the envy of other concerns engaged in a similar line of business endeavor.
The concern must first of all put its individuality into the business which it established and it must stand ready at all times to back up any assertions which it makes in behalf of its manufactured product. Such an enterprise is the above mentioned one. We know of no business establishment that has dealt so honestly or conscientiously with the buying public as the Kelly-Springfield Motor Truck Company. It has aimed first of all to produce a motor truck that would be as near perfect as human energy and skill could make possible, and in the second place it has aimed to produce this truck and sell it to the trade at a price that would be consistent with a first class article.
This firm’s reputation for reliability and square dealings stands back of every truck that goes out of the plant to the patron. There is a guarantee that is as binding as any guarantee could be; it is little wonder the Kelly-Springfield Motor Truck Company has achieved the reputation in the business world it has. The building of a motor truck requires a number of things – in the first place, the product must stand the wear and tear that motor trucks are subjected to; a truck that will not stand up under the most severe strain is useless when the added load or the increased energy is demanded of it. We are glad to say of the Kelly truck that they meet every requirements of the trade. They stand up under the severest test made upon them and they are even made to do more work than they are guaranteed to do.
We want to say to our friends among the members of organized labor that you will do well to bear the above mentioned concern in mind when you are conversing with anyone who may be in need of a motor truck of superior design and construction. This concern is known to be friendly to the cause of the boys and the officers of the Kelly-Springfield Motor Truck Company are men of known reliability and trustworthiness in this community. They are men who have built up in our midst a sound business establishment that stands out as a memorial and testimony to the efficiency and faith of those who were instrumental in starting the organization.
Trucks of a character of the Kelly motor trucks speak for themselves. You can see them anywhere you go, and wherever they are they are going. They deliver the goods, in other words, meeting every demand of the trade at all times. We have no hesitancy in recommending the concern and its products to our friends anywhere.
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THE O. S. KELLY COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
In looking over the concerns in Springfield that have added luster to the name of this community as an industrial center, we find the above mentioned establishment enjoys high rank among our varied interests. The O. S. Kelly Company was established twenty-eight years ago and now gives employment to two hundred persons. It is engaged in the manufacture of piano plates, and in this particular line, the character of its work is beyond reproach and criticism. We want to call particular attention to this fact – the O. S. Kelly Company is one of the foremost industrial leaders in southern Ohio, a concern that has earned and continued to maintain the confidence of the trade in a very remarkable sort of manner and we have no hesitancy in urging our friends to give this company a liberal share of their business at all times. The men who are officers of the O. S. Kelly Company are men well known in this community; men who have made a life study of piano plate making and for this reason the concern is amply able to render to its patrons the highest possible type of service in an industrial way. The plant is one of the most modern and efficient in the city of Springfield. The company has kept fully abreast of the times and at all times has catered to a high class, satisfied trade. It has been known to be friendly to the cause of organized labor and we haven’t the slightest hesitancy in urging our friends among the organized laboring men to give the company a liberal share of their business. They aim at all times to give their patrons the highest type of service and they guarantee their products to be made of the finest material possible. The O. S. Kelly Company has always maintained the same high standard of service since its organization. They have done more than their share to make a “Dominant Springfield” and bring this city to the attention of the business world.
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Z. TAYLOR & SON
North Fountain Avenue, Springfield
A large and successful business has been done by this metal polishing and electroplating concern ever since it was first organized more than six years ago. From the very start, the work done by the concern possessed such a superior quality that orders have always been up to the capacity of the plant. In consequence, expansion has featured in the development of the company. At the present time, steady and profitable employment is being given to 15 skilled workmen by the company. These men work in a modern and well-equipped plant and are recognized as experts in their line. Due to the fair treatment they have always received by their employer, they take an interest and pride in their work which is seldom experienced. For that reason, again, the quality of the polishing and plating done by Z. Taylor & Son is always so highly guaranteed. Officials of the company have long been known in Springfield for their successful and reputable business dealings. They are leaders in their line of industry and are equipped by actual experience to turn out the very best work of this kind done in the middle west. In this connection, we wish to repeat at this point of the review that in the movement recently started among working people to give their combined support and patronage to the firms and businesses that have shown the proper interest and welfare of labor, this concern is worthy of particular attention in that it is in every way worthy of the earnest support and unrestricted patronage of every member and loyal citizen. We wish for it an era of increasing success and popularity.
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THE BUCKEYE INCUBATOR COMPANY
501-509 Euclid Avenue, Springfield
A nationwide sale is readily found for the high grade products of this large Springfield manufacturing plant, which has been established and successfully operating its business for the past 25 years. As is shown by the name of the concern, its most famous product is the well-known “Buckeye” standard incubators, than which there are no better made anywhere. At the large and modern plant are also made “Buckeye” oil-burning and coal-burning brooders for the little chicks turned out by the incubators. Officials of the company are: George Cugley, president; H. W. MacKinnon, secretary; R. A. Worthington, vice president; D. N. Denslow, treasurer; Arthur R. Hill, Director and Sales Manager; J. S. Crowell and J. E. Harner, directors. These men are noted for their progressiveness and honesty and have in addition always been friendly to the cause of labor. They give profitable employment to about 100 skilled workmen at their factory, at which the most sanitary working conditions are found. Showing the extent of the industry, a branch office is maintained at Oakland, California.
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THE RHOADES PAPER BOX COMPANY
66-68 St. John Place, Springfield
In calling the attention of our friends to the above mentioned concern, we do so with considerable pride in the fact that here is a company that has for fifteen years enjoyed a successful and constant growth. It gives employment to thirty persons. If you are manufacturing or selling anything that requires packing to preserve its quality or attractiveness, we want to recommend that you let the Rhoades Paper Box Company furnish you with the proper paper package. This concern makes to order, standing paper boxes, and mailing tubes. We do not know a single concern in the state that is better equipped in every way for handling your business along this particular line than the one named above and we take a great deal of pleasure in recommending the Rhoades Paper Box Company to our friends among members of organized labor and others who may be in the market for high class stock. The management of this company is known in the business world for its reliability and trustworthiness and the company is one of great strength and dependability.
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SCHAEFER’S BAKERY
518 West Main Street, Springfield
“Pan Dandy” bread, made by this large and well-organized bakery is sold extensively in Springfield and adjacent territory. On the market ever since the concern was established 45 years ago, this bread is universally recognized as possessing a distinctively high quality which is extremely difficult to find in other products. The Schaefer bakery devotes its exclusive attention to the baking of high grade bread to the disregard of cakes and pastries. Expert bakers are employed to improve and maintain at its high standard, this widely known Springfield food product. At the present time, about 20 persons are kept steadily on the payroll. An excellent delivery service is operated to all parts of the city, by which “Pan Dandy” bread is delivered right at your door at all hours of the day. This concern has the highest regard of organized labor and it is with a great deal of pleasure that we recommend it to the full and united support and patronage of working people, in need of superior quality bread. Officials of the firm are recognized as friendly in their attitude toward the cause and deserve in turn the patronage of its members. They are popular and progressive business men, whose main desire is to please and satisfy their customers. The bakery is a model for cleanliness, sanitation, and convenience, all the latest and most approved equipment being in use at the shop. Orders placed over Bell phone, 1080, or Home phone, 1760, will receive prompt attention.
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THE SAFETY EMERY WHEEL COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
This is one of the oldest and most successful concerns in southern Ohio and the city of Springfield is indeed fortunate in having it established in this community. It was started in the year 1873 and at the present time gives employment to one hundred and fifteen persons. Many times the numbers of employes are one hundred and fifty-five. We want to say right here and now that there isn’t an industrial concern in this city that is as well equipped for handling the line of business this concern does than the Safety Emery Wheel Company. They manufacture emery, corundum, and carbonite wheels and grinding machinery. Officers of the company are C. Nagel, president; A. O. Spencer, vice president and general manager; and James B. Baker, secretary and treasurer. In its particular field we fancy you would have considerable difficulty in doing business with a higher class concern than this one. It is a concern built upon the principles of honesty and fair dealings with its patrons and it has built up a business of which any establishment may well feel proud. The men who compose the management are men of known reputations in a business way and are well known among our citizens. The first aim of the Safety Emery Wheel Company is to furnish a product that is safe and serviceable and this they have been able to do in a surprisingly effective way. The plant is modern and up-to-date in every respect and efficiently operated. We commend it to our friends among the labor union organizations and others as trustworthy and reliable in every respect.
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THE VICTOR RUBBER COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
This large rubber manufacturing concern is considered in all circles as one of the leading industries of Springfield. Installed in a large and strictly modern plant, the company is giving steady employment to 250 workmen, with prospects for a large enlargement of the payroll in the near future. The company was established more than 18 years ago and has done a large and prosperous business from the word “go”. Much credit for the success of the firm goes to the progressive and well-known officials who are: H. H. Durr, president; C. A. Swinehart, secretary; F. R. Talbott, treasurer and general manager; and R. W. Lauer, superintendent. These men are favorably known in business and commercial circles and are always ready to take an active part in things leading to the civic betterment of the town in which their plant is located. Their dealings with labor have always shown such a large degree of fairness that they have the full and united support of every employe in the factory. Products of the company, which are in use all over the world, include pneumatic tires and tubes, carriage tires, mats, and matting. Exclusive and patented processes are used in the manufacture of these products, which insure to them an extraordinary high quality. The company has thousands of satisfied customers, who are always willing to give recommendations as to the quality and durability of Victor-Springfield tires and rubber goods. Shipping facilities of the plant are unexcelled for rapid delivery on all orders, no matter how large or small. Union men should not need to be told to give this concern their support and patronage.
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DUPLEX MILL AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
Here is a high class concern, established three years ago and strong in the estimation and esteem of the business world of which it is such an essential and vital part. Twenty persons are given employment at this plant and the character of the products speaks eloquently of the skill and genius which enter into the business. We commend the Duplex Mill and Manufacturing Company to our friends among organized labor men and others and ask that you give the concern a liberal share of your business.
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JAMES LEFFEL & COMPANY
Lagonda Avenue, Springfield
An international business is done by this large Springfield manufacturing plant. The most famous products of the company are turbine water wheels, steam engines, and boilers. Years of service and durability have made a reputation for Leffel machinery which cannot be surpassed by any other concern and which have made it virtually a standard for other concerns. Up-to-date methods, combined with a great degree of cooperation at the plant between officials and employes, have combined to form an important factor in the success of the concern. Established since 1861, the company has rapidly forged ahead in the industrial world until it has reached the commanding position it now occupies. More than 200 skilled workmen are given employment at the factory, which is doing a large share in the laudable work of keeping on the industrial map. Equipment of the plant throughout is of the most modern type to insure successful and rapid operation of the business. Transportation facilities are excellent for prompt delivery of orders to all parts of the United States and foreign countries. To handle orders from other countries, the company has arranged to use several telegraph codes, including Leffel’s private, Lieber’s standard, A. B. C. 4th and 5th edition Clausen-Thue, Lieber’s five-letter American, and others. The cable address of the concern is “Leffel Springfield, Ohio.” Orders may be placed over the Long Distance telephone by calling Main 59. Officials of the company need no introduction in the business world, locally or nationally, but it is always a pleasure to recommend these men to the support and cooperation of our many friends. James Leffel & Company is to Springfield what the N. C. R. is to Dayton.
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THE WICKHAM PIANO PLATE COMPANY
Sheridan, Robert, and Belmont Avenues
Springfield, Ohio
One of the largest manufacturing concerns in the busy industrial city of Springfield, this company is at the same time one of the most friendly to the cause of organized labor and has always been noted for its fairness to its employes. Ever since it was established, more than 34 years ago, the company has enjoyed a very successful career, invariably being taxed to the limit of its capacity to fill the large demand experienced for its tried and tested piano plates, which are used by some of the largest piano making concerns in the United States. Quality of Wickham piano plates has become universally established and they have become apparently a standard for other makers. At the present time, the modern and up-to-date factory is working at full capacity and is giving steady and lucrative employment to more than 250 skilled workmen. Working conditions at the plant are as nearly ideal as is possible to make them. Equipment of the factory is of the latest and most approved type, which combined with the noticeable effort of cooperation on the part of employes, gives every indication that the high standard of Wickham products will be maintained and that the company is facing a bright and prosperous future. Shipping facilities of the plant are admirable for the delivery of products of the concern to all parts of the United States and foreign countries, where piano plates are used. Henry Wickham is the founder of the plant, organized in 1885 and incorporated in 1903. He is considered one of the leaders of the industry and is known as a progressive and successful business man. Branches of the plant are operated at Chicago, Boston, and New York. The Wickham Company is known as the largest concern of its kind in the world and has given Springfield excellent cause to feel proud of it.
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THE STEELE PRODUCTS ENGINEERING COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
Here is a high class enterprise that has been established for the last four years and has developed in a wonderful sort of way in this community. At the present time one hundred and fifty persons are given employment by the above mentioned concern and we haven’t the slightest hesitancy in recommending this industry to our friends in Springfield and elsewhere. This concern is known to be friendly to the cause of labor and it has done everything in its power to promote the interest of the boys. The concern is engaged in manufacturing, designing, and building tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, models, and special machinery. The character of the output of this concern is too well known in the business world to warrant a recitation of this at this time. Suffice it to say the concern is operated by men of known integrity and honesty in this city and they stand squarely back of their products at all times. They aim first of all to give their trade the finest products that can be made with human skill and ingenuity and we want to commend the concern to the trade everywhere, knowing that a trial order will convince everyone of the merits of the good statements we have made. The plant is well equipped and modern in every respect and the Steele Products Engineering Company has kept fully abreast of the times. They are contract manufacturers that have earned a first class reputation in southern Ohio that makes the company famous all over Ohio.
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SPRINGFIELD SPRING COMPANY
East Pleasant Street, Springfield
We want to call particular attention to the above mentioned concern which has been in existence for about five and one-half years. They manufacture coiled wire springs. Ralph H. Thatcher is president and manager, and Joseph H. Sullivan is superintendent. Here is a concern that gives employment to fifty persons and has established a splendid reputation for itself in this community. The fame of its products, as a matter of fact, is not confined to any particular section of Ohio, but extends to neighboring states as well. We want to say that the relationship between the Springfield Spring Company and its employes is most cordial and the concern is known to be friendly to the cause of organized labor. If you are in need of anything in its particular line, or if you know anyone who is in need of its products, you will confer a favor upon your friends by recommending this company. Its name stands back of its products and everything is guaranteed. The men who operate the concern are men of known reliability and efficiency of service and they aim at all times to please their trade.
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SPRINGFIELD MALLEABLE IRON COMPANY
Bechtle Avenue, Springfield
In calling attention to the above mentioned concern, we do so in the fullest confidence that we are presenting to our readers one of the best known, most reliable and most up-to-the-minute business establishment in this section of the state. The company was organized in the year 1878 and now gives employment to two hundred and fifty persons. The character of the product of the Springfield Malleable Iron Company is too well known among business establishments which patronize it, to warrant any long and extended notice here. That the company has during all these years successfully met and earned the confidence of every business interest and demand with which it was associated, speaks more eloquently than these mere words of its worth in this community. The products of the Springfield Malleable Iron Company are known far and wide and the demand for them is ever on the increase. The men who officer this company are men of unquestioned standing in this community, men who have spent many years in Springfield and have grown up with our industrial life. In organizing the company they had in mind first of all the manufacture of a first class line of malleable castings and this they have been able to do with credit to themselves and satisfaction to their trade. In fact, the Springfield Malleable Iron Company guarantees its products to be first class and reliable in every respect and we want to commend this company to our friends everywhere. It is known to be friendly to the cause of organized labor and is deserving of your good wishes and assistance. Complete harmony prevails among the employes and employer and this is certainly most commendable.
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THE SPRINGFIELD MACHINE TOOL COMPANY
Southern Avenue, Springfield
The Springfield Machine Tool Company is known far and wide for its successful manufacture of brass and iron working machinery and the production of high grade iron in its large and completely equipped foundry. Officials of the company which was established more than 30 years ago are: P. E. Montanus, president; Paul A. Montanus, vice president and general manager; and Edward S. Montanus, secretary. Working under these progressive and successful business men are 180 skilled and well paid workmen, who, on account of the fair dealings of their employers, exhibit a spirit of the greatest cooperation. In that connection, it should be said that in the movement recently supported among the working people to give their combined support and patronage to the concerns and business men that have shown the proper interest in the welfare of labor, particular attention should be called to this company. It is in every way worthy and deserving of the earnest support and unrestricted patronage and hearty good will of every member of organized labor and loyal citizen. Only the most up-to-date methods are in use at the plant and foundry of the Springfield Machine Tool Company. Products of the company are consequently high grade and able to stand every test which may be made as to their quality and durability. They are sold in all parts of the United States and in many foreign countries. This concern has played an extremely prominent part in giving to Springfield the enviable position in the industrial world which she now occupies. Owing to its honorable and public spirited dealings, this concern has built up a large and prosperous business, for which reason an exceedingly bright future is predicted for the company. Orders now on the books of the concern insure it of continuous operation for a number of months. Further expansions may be necessary at the plant from all present indications. In their success, officials of the company have the good will and best wishes of practically every citizen of Springfield. They have always taken a large interest in the up-building of the city and are considered leaders in its business and industrial affairs. Excellent shipping facilities have made prompt delivery of orders a feature of this concern’s international business. Foreign orders are placed under the cable address of “Montanus” from the name of the founders of the company. We wish and predict for this large and old established concern an era of increasing success and prosperity.
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THE WESCOTT MOTOR CAR COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
The Wescott Motor Car Company of Springfield is generally regarded as one of the real successful enterprises of the state of Ohio. It was established in the year 1909 in Richmond, Indiana but moved to Springfield in July of the year 1916. At the present time it gives employment to one hundred and fifty persons. The Wescott motor cars, as they are advertised “built to endure,” measure up to every standard of excellence that the trade has demanded. In fact, the high excellence of the Wescott cars has been a by-word for years among the careful, considerate patrons of the automobile. The Wescott car, to begin with, is built for a purpose, and that purpose is to give to the customer the finest riding automobile that money and brains can produce. The special type of motor carriages made by the above mentioned concern, speak eloquently of the skill and genius which go into the making of the machines and we want to commend the Wescott automobile to our friends and those who may be in the market for a high class machine that will meet every requirement put upon it. In style, build, and endurance, you will find this car the best the market produces at the present time. The management of the Wescott Motor Car Company is giving their entire time and energies to the producing of a high class machine and this they have done in a way most satisfactory to the buying public. We haven’t the slightest hesitation in suggesting to our friends that they give very serious consideration to the Wescott motor cars. You will find they meet every demand made upon them consistent with high class workmanship, and the enjoyment that the owner of a Wescott car gets out of riding in one of these machines is one of the things that make life a pleasure. Here is a high grade concern that commends itself strongly to the buying public.
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THE WESTERN TOOL AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
It is scarcely necessary to go into a long explanation why the above mentioned concern has gained the prestige and reputation it has in the business and industrial world. The one thing that has entered very largely into the matter has been that the Western Tool and Manufacturing Company has always kept faith with its patrons. Established fifteen years ago, the concern now gives employment to seventy-five persons. They are manufacturers of “Champion” tool holders, expanding mandrels, tool holder steels, shop furniture, victor vises, power hack saws, movable benches, emery wheel dressers, and cutter sets. The Western Tool and Manufacturing Company is a member of the American Supply and Machinery Manufacturers’ Association, and officers of the company are: O. H. Hyde, president; Henry Morris, vice president and treasurer; and Robert J. Saum, secretary. These are all men of unquestioned standing in this community, men who have individually strong reputations for reliability and trustworthiness. An endorsement of national consequence speaks more eloquently for the character of this concern’s products than any mere words we might write here. The products are regarded everywhere as standard in their lines and are in great demand. The men who have developed this concern are men who have put their entire time and energy into the business and have succeeded in building up an enterprise that stands second to none in this state. We want our union friends to bear this company in mind at all times. You can always depend upon it anything you buy from the Western Tool and Manufacturing Company will be first class in every respect and will meet every requirement made upon it consistent with good judgment. The concern guarantees its products to be first class in all respects. Its long and honorable history is filled with industrial triumphs. It stands at the forefront among industrial concerns in Springfield.
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THE WEBSTER & PERKS TOOL COMPANY
Center and Jefferson Streets, Springfield
This old and substantial manufacturing plant stands as one of the foremost concerns in the country in the production of bolt pointing, threading and special tapping machinery, grinding and polishing machinery, machine parts, automobile parts, and unit assemblies. Products of the company enjoy an international sale and are being used more extensively every day, due to the progressive efforts of a live sales force and their recognized superior quality. The Webster & Perks Tool Company was established 27 years ago in 1891. Growing rapidly from the very start, the concern was incorporated in 1910 and re-incorporated in 1915. It is now on a solid financial foundation and in a position to provide for further expansion which must inevitably come as a result of the large business being done by the company. The officers are: H. Voges, Jr., president; F. G. Wacker, vice president; and P. E. Stokes, secretary and treasurer. These men are all recognized leaders in the tool industry and are noted for their popularity and progressiveness. Much credit for the industrial up-building of Springfield is being given these men and the large industrial plant of which they are at the head. In their dealings with labor, officials of this company have always shown a great deal of friendliness and are firm believers in the cause when properly conducted. About 100 skilled workmen are employed at this plant, all showing the utmost cooperation with officials on account of the fair treatment they receive. The plant of the Webster & Perks Tool Company is one of the largest and best equipped of its kind in the country. Quality and durability of the concern’s products are so widely established that further comment is not needed.
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THE HENNESSY FOUNDRY COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
Here is a first class business establishment that has been a part of this city’s industrial life for the last eighteen years. Employment is given by the Hennessy Foundry Company to twenty-five persons and the products of the concern are known as far and wide as most exceptional in their several lines. This concern operates one of the best known, most modern and most efficient foundry plants in southern Ohio. The management is known to be friendly to the cause of organized labor and the officers are always with the boys of the union in movements that have to do with the development of the cause. We want to call particular attention to the fact that the Hennessy Foundry Company is a concern which makes high class foundry materials and products. It is the one aim of this concern that what it makes be superior to anything else made in the country and if you could hear some of the fine things said about these products you would have no hesitancy in recommending the above mentioned concern to your friends at any time. This establishment is a thriving, aggressive company that has during its eighteen years of business activity, made many friends and held them too. An ever increasing demand for its foundry output speaks eloquently of the high standard which the concern has always maintained. You can always depend on what you buy of this concern. It is reliable and trustworthy and it has built up its fine patronage around honest dealings and square deals with its patrons. Give it a liberal share of your business at all times.
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THE FAIRBANKS COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
In looking over the list of concerns in Springfield that have, by the very nature of their business added luster to the industrial reputation of this city, we find the Fairbanks Company occupies a strong position among our citizens. M. L. Milligan is president; N. H. Fairbanks is vice president; H. E. Freeman is treasurer; and H. E. Stimmel is secretary. This establishment manufactures gray iron castings and also makes piano plates. Its foundry is generally regarded as being one of the best equipped and most efficient in this section of the state and we haven’t the slightest hesitation in recommending to our friends everywhere that they give the Fairbanks Company a liberal share of their foundry patronage. This company was established twenty-six years ago and now gives employment to two hundred skilled men. In Springfield it stands in the very forefront among the institutions that have helped in the development of the community’s name as a live, wide-awake city and the reputation which its products have made speaks eloquently of the fine standing which it has assumed in the industrial world of which Springfield is the center. If you are in the market for high class gray iron castings and piano plates we know of no company here or elsewhere, better able to fill your wants at more reasonable prices. The management is known to all our people in Springfield and to many men outside of Springfield as made up of men who are a credit to the city and to the business which they operate.
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THE SPRINGFIELD METALLIC CASKET COMPANY
Springfield, Ohio
Established thirty-four years ago and now giving employment to three hundred and fifty people, this concern stands at the forefront among the establishments in Ohio engaged in the manufacture of caskets. They are manufacturers of patent metallic burial cases and caskets; steel, burglar proof, grave vaults; fine cedar and chestnut cloth-covered caskets; zinc and copper inside linings; high grade casket hardware; and undertakers’ supplies. E. N. Lupfer is president and general manager; Mitchell W. Raup, secretary and treasurer; C. G. Hiser is superintendent. The fame of the above mentioned concern is nation wide and extends from coast to coast, from the Canadian boundary on the north to the Gulf of Mexico on the south. It is a modern, up-to-date plant that has made an enviable name for itself in a business way and we have no hesitancy in recommending to the trade in need of such products. They have kept abreast of the times at all times and guarantee their products to be first class in every respect. Give them a liberal share of your patronage and be assured of the best the market affords. This concern is reliable and trustworthy in every respect.
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TIPP BUILDING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Tippecanoe City, Ohio
This concern was established in 1864 and its line is the manufacture of kitchen cabinets and breakfast tables. A feature of the product are the “never stick” roller bearing doors. In looking over the list of concerns in the Miami Valley that have for many years added immeasurably to the reputation of this particular city, we find the Tipp Building and Manufacturing Company in the very forefront. The concern is one of the real up-to-date, modern establishments in this section. Its plant is in every way designed to meet the demand for a constantly growing business and the concern is officered by men who are well and favorably known to the business and the interests of southern Ohio. The character of the work of the company is above reproach. Nothing but skilled labor goes into the building of these kitchen cabinets and you will find them for sale in practically every city of importance in this and neighboring states. The particular feature, the “never stick” roller bearing roll doors is a surprisingly popular one. The concern invented a track with roller bearings which is the best one on the market and one which is absolutely sanitary. These doors will not stick or get out of order. They are moved on the roller bearings with very little effort and may be easily removed when necessary. These cabinets are made of the finest possible material, and finished in an exceptionally sturdy way. The concern makes cabinets for all purposes and uses in the kitchen. They are designed to meet every requirement made of it and it is one of the most popular manufactured products on the market today. We have no hesitancy in recommending this concern to our friends throughout the Miami Valley. Those who are operating the business are known to be reliable and trustworthy.
