W. M. Beatty & Son Co.

[stumpstalker]

Question: Why would W. M. Beatty & Son Co. (1839-1882), of Chester, Pennsylvania, described by the Davison Museum website as , "One of America’s most prolific edge toolmakers, including broad axes used by shipwrights", not be listed in either GOIN'S ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CUTLERY MARKINGS, nor in LEVINE'S GUIDE?

Could it be due to the apparent fact that the company did not make edged tools beyond cleavers and axes, and not knives per se?

I have encountered the brand in my travels or in the "knife press", as I now see that some time ago I penciled the name into my alphabetical list of knife manufacturers.

It is understood that that many vendors and makers are continually re-discovered. However, W. M. Beatty was securely established long ago, it appears; and thus, would not really be classifiable as an obscure maker, would it? Why would it be so overlooked?

In photos online I find some superb examples of the firm's vintage cleavers, with forthright deep stamps. Very nice-looking stuff.

[knife7knut]

It sounds like you answered your own question. Both Goins and Levine were primarily concerned with manufacturers of knives and straight razors although Levine had a list of very early English makers who made other tools.Just my opinion.