Top Page > Clamps as Products > Makers of Wooden Clamps (WC) > Narragansett

Table of Contents:
This page contains pictures and descriptions of

• a typical handle of stopped spindle,
• a typical handle of through spindle,
• a typical ends of spindles;
• chamfering along the jaw; and
• the maker's marks.

The grid paper has quarter inch spacing;  the specimen has 20 inch long jaws.

The photos were taken by John Adams; many thanks!

Handle of stopped spindle handle

There are several things to note about this handle.   The first is the flat end.   The second is the uniform diameter.  The third is the quick rounding to the flat end and to the shaft.  

This example is lathe cut, and the lathe was set up so that the cutter withdrew at the of the threads, leaving an ever more shallow cut.  On other examples, the pitch decreases to zero.  I have examples of hand cut as well.

Handle of through spindle

This example has the flat end, barrel shape, waist, and collar, characteristic of Narragansett, and very similar to Bliss. These differences between the Narragansett and the Bliss are subtle.

This shows details of the flats and shoulders of the handles. (Note also the difference in finish/ stain.)

Ends of spindles

The tip of the through screw is rounded here; other examples have it sawn flat, leaving no transition to the threads.

Each of these bears the marks of the lathe, spinning against the dead center.

Jaws

Nose

Note that the width of the chamfer is uniform, in contrast to Bliss, which tapers.

Note also that the chamfer is at a slight angle to the outside, and a steep angle to the top/ bottom sides, in contrast to Grand Rapids, which is just the reverse.

Back

Note that the edges between top/ bottom and back are not chamfered.

The result is that Narragansett is chamfered along only five edges.

Maker's Marks

Circle Mark (earlier)

This is apparently the earlier mark. The "donut" is the usual 3-ring binder protector, included for scale.

The name is in the outer band, with "warranted" imposed on the initials or monogram inside.

No date is known for the change-over. However, this circular mark is known on a model 814 made from HR jaws, and NR spindles. This would indicate that it was still in use when Narragansett acquired the assets, including work in process, of Hood and Rice, in 1902.

Two Line Mark (later)

This is usually on the top or bottom of a jaw, not on the outside.

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