Camillus Cutlery Co. Auction

[CAMCO]

There will be an auction at Camillus on September 17th and 18th. I will be there both days and I hope to meet some of the members of AAPK.

Tom Williams

[lt632ret]

Is there any way to access what they will be selling and if any of it will be stock, or is it just machinery also are there any antique lots, Is it possible to get a list and or review what is for sale. Also is there one of my favorite over nite places to stay in the area, ie a Walmart parking lot. Any info appreciated. Thankyou LT

[El Lobo]

LT,

Isn't there a famous motel in the area? You know.....The WalMart Astoria?

J/K, J/K everyone.

Bill

EDITED: I just remembered this was posted on the Camillus forum, but I can't validate it personally...just as information.....

Guys and girls,
The knives that are inventoried in the packing and shipping departments are being moved out to a new location for a sale at a later date. All loose knives that are laying around are being sold to the public at the auction.Some of these are good quality, others need work. As far as parts are concern they are for sale in lots and there will be an upcharge fee the same as if you were buying equipment.Unless you know what your looking for it may not be worth your time to go.All of the collectables are gone!!!!
If your in the market for scrap, you are in luck.

[Gr8Scout]

Still considering going if only to meet CAMCO and others.


Phil

[Gr8Scout]

Heard from CAMCO this week. Here is the latest on the auction. Because of work, school (I've gone back to college) and an impending operation I will not be able to make the trip. And I really wanted to finally meet Tom in person.

http://www.bidspotter.com/

(search: Camillus)

Phil

[LRV]

Here is a inventory list reduced to mostly the knives.
The total list of items is huge.
Hope this works...


Camillus Inventory

[Gr8Scout]

Excellent, Larry. Some of those lots look good, I can see some knives in some lots that don't look so good. I think we all know who will probably end up with most of those knives.. same syndicate that got all the Schrade loot. Not to worry, we will see it all on ebay eventually. I'm considering a bid or two, but we will see.
Phil

[Phil Gibbs]

I'll be there.
It's going to be more than a little sad I'm afraid
It will be interesting to see who ends up with the trade names & patents etc.

[lt632ret]

Perhapes some one can clear up a few things for me. First I have for an address for the factory ( 52 Main Street, Camillus, NY 13031 ). The Walmart is 5399 W Genesee St Camillus NY 13031. As close as I can tell they are pretty near to each other. Does anyone know?

Second They have Monday but then it seems Tues and Wens. I cannot figure it out. Also if it is all big machinery on Mon I have no major need to be there. Is there any way to find out what is selling and when.

There is also one giant lot of 18,700 knives ( ie the third floor ). Any info on what this group is. Over the last few years I have built a couple new small buildings and have some room and I was just saying to myself you know you could use another 18,700 knives . Lot #3221.

Also there is nothing to tell you, when you can view the items, Or find out more about them . Any help would be appreciated. I am seriously contemplating the trip.

If I meet any one who might want to say hello I will have a libation out in the camper. I am still making up my mind. Now that I have a GPS it makes it a bit more feasible. I like my GPS it is a guys voice and it never gets pissed off when I make a wrong turn . Unlike my ex wife. I named it Hal after the one in the movie 2001. Again any info would be appreciated. LT

[Mossdancer]

Hi LT:
Looks like its about four miles from Cam Cutco to walmart. Here is a link to map showing Camco at intersection of genesee and mechanic.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=l&hl=en&g ... &z=19&om=1

wb

[lt632ret]

Alrighty then it is a 3 day auction. Mon Tues Wens Day one lots 1-1041 day two 2001 - 3221 ( 3221 is the 18,700 knives ) 5001 till the end day three, and the only thing they say regarding 3221 is if is completed knives it is day three. Early Viewing is Sat Sun and Monday morning. Now here is the kicker if you buy off the internet it is 20% buyers fee off the floor 15% . So except for shipping it is no big savings. Well that is what i have found out so far. It really is just as easy to bid on line especially since my interest is mainly in memorbilia. Oh yes and the 18,700 knives. LT PS if any one gets any more input please post it. Thanks MOSSY for the info on my favorite hotel.

[CAMCO]

I attended the auction preview at Camillus today. Just about everything is being sold. Many items are being sold in lots.
I did see several former Camillus employees at the factory today. I was glad to hear that many former employees have found new jobs.

Tom Williams

[knifeswapper]

What is the consensus on how these knives will sell?

Anybody that is going to be there interested in bidding/shipping for me?

[MITCH RAPP]

Anybody know how the Auction went? Did anybody buy the Camillus

Name and Property Rights?

[MITCH RAPP]

Just found this in the business section.

HARTFORD -- Acme United Corporation (AMEX:ACU) announced today that it has acquired the Camillus Cutlery Company brand name as well as all its patents and trademarks for approximately $200,000.

Camillus Cutlery was founded in 1873, and is one of the oldest knife companies in the U.S. It products include many types of pocket knives, as well as those for hunting and fishing. For many years, Camillus supplied knives for the Boy Scouts of America. It also shipped over 15 million knives to the military during World War II.

The assets were acquired in a bankruptcy auction. Camillus closed business in February 2007 following a 6 month labor strike. Its revenues were approximately $18 million during its final year.

Walter C. Johnsen, Chairman and CEO of Acme United said, "We intend to reestablish the Camillus brand into production and continue to deliver high quality products. We hope to slowly build revenues as we reconnect with customers. This will be a careful undertaking.”

ACME UNITED CORPORATION is an innovative supplier of cutting devices, measuring instruments, and safety products for school, home, office and industrial use. Its leading brands include Westcott®, Clauss®, and PhysiciansCare ®.

[Gr8Scout]

Thanks for posting this, Mitch. We can probably expect more of a report on the auction when LT returns.

I see another company is already using CAMCO on a line of China made, Rough Rider style knives. It doesn't seem to me that they waited for the auction before claiming the name. We'll see what happens.

Phil

[MITCH RAPP]

The name of the company that now owns Camillus Cutlery, "Acme

United Corporation" reminds me of a Road Runner Cartoon. I

sure hope they don't make their new Camillus Knives in China.

[LRV]

Prices from the auction..
All I could get before they closed it.

Lot # Name-Description Quantity Price per Total
6001 CUTLERY SETS 2 $25.00 $50.00
6002 BOWIE KNIVES 5 $100.00 $500.00
6003 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 80 $6.75 $540.00
6004 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 70 $6.75 $472.50
6005 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 67 $6.75 $452.25
6006 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 92 $6.75 $621.00
6007 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 67 $6.75 $452.25
6008 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 64 $6.75 $432.00
6009 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 75 $6.75 $506.25
6010 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 74 $6.75 $499.50
6011 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 68 $6.75 $459.00
6012 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 76 $6.75 $513.00
6013 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 73 $6.75 $492.75
6014 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 57 $6.75 $384.75
6015 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 70 $6.75 $472.50
6016 CAMILLUS 2 PIECE POCKET KNIVE 72 $6.75 $486.00
6017 ASST STYLE KNIVES 7 $8.00 $56.00
6018 BOWIE KNIVES 3 $100.00 $300.00
6019 COLDSTEEL ANTLER HANDLE KNIVES 6 $85.00 $510.00
6020 LAREDO BOWIE CARBON V KNIVES 4 $65.00 $260.00
6021 SSO COLDSTEEL CARBON V KNIVES 3 $50.00 $150.00
6022 COLT CT8-SS DAGGERS 4 $35.00 $140.00
6023 COLT SS KNIVES 9 $15.00 $135.00
6024 COLT SS KNIVES 3 $45.00 $135.00
6025 COLT CT6 SS FISHING KNIVES 4 $20.00 $80.00
6026 TRAILMASTER COLD STEEL CARVON V KNIFE 1 $115.00 $115.00
6027 BK&T CARBON STEEL KNIFE 1 $110.00 $110.00
6028 COLD STEEL CARBON V KNIFE 1 $85.00 $85.00
6029 BK&T COMBAT BOWIE KNIVES 2 $85.00 $170.00
6030 ASST MACHETE KNIVES 4 $35.00 $140.00
6031 BOXES BLADES & SHEATHS 4 $0.00
6032 WESTERN STYLE WOOD HANDLE KNIVES 20 $12.50 $250.00
6033 CAMILLUS BLACK FOLDING KNIVES 21 $12.50 $262.50
6034 CAMILLUS USWA LOCAL 786 KNIVES 19 $17.50 $332.50
6035 ASST PACKAGED KNIVES 10 $23.00 $230.00
6036 CAMILLUS 2 BLADE FOLDING KNIVES 20 $17.00 $340.00
6037 ASST POCKET KNIVES 26 $10.00 $260.00
6038 SCHRADE 3 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 103 $5.50 $566.50
6039 ASST POCKET KNIVES 43 $5.50 $236.50
6040 ASST POCKET KNIVES 42 $6.00 $252.00
6041 ASST POCKET KNIVES 30 $7.00 $210.00
6042 ASST POCKET KNIVES 35 $6.50 $227.50
6043 CAMILLUS 2 BLADE KNIVES 25 $7.00 $175.00
6044 FISHING KNIVES 11 $15.00 $165.00
6045 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $5.50 $330.00
6046 4 BLADE DUCKS UNLIMITED KNIVES 14 $13.00 $182.00
6047 ASST MEAT KNIVES 38 $10.00 $380.00
6048 CAMILLUS WOOD HANDLE 1 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 95 $2.25 $213.75
6049 CAMILLUS 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 220 $6.50 $1,430.00
6050 ASST KNIVES 230 $2.00 $460.00
6051 PIECES HUNTING SUPPLIES 8 $0.00
6052 PRUNERS 35 $0.00
6053 POCKET KNIVES 68 $5.50 $374.00
6054 SHEATH KNIVES 16 $6.00 $96.00
6055 SHEATH KNIVES 13 $8.00 $104.00
6056 POCKET KNIVES 28 $6.00 $168.00
6057 SHEATH KNIVES 12 $9.00 $108.00
6058 SHEATH KNIVES 17 $15.00 $255.00
6059 MAXAM POCKET KNIVES 30 $8.00 $240.00
6060 FOLDING SAWS 20 $5.00 $100.00
6061 ROBO POWER POCKET KNIVES BY D RALPH 64 $7.00 $448.00
6062 POCKET KNIVES 60 $4.00 $240.00
6063 MILITARY KNIVES 9 $17.50 $157.50
6064 SHEATH KNIVES 10 $7.00 $70.00
6065 SHEATH KNIVES 17 $8.00 $136.00
6066 ASST POCKET KNIVES 44 $5.50 $242.00
6067 ASST POCKET KNIVES 40 $5.50 $220.00
6068 WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 94 $2.50 $235.00
6069 BOWIE STYLE KNIVES 5 $50.00 $250.00
6070 ASST POCKET KNIVES 44 $5.00 $220.00
6071 ASST POCKET KNIVES 34 $6.00 $204.00
6072 ASST POCKET KNIVES 31 $7.00 $217.00
6073 ASST POCKET KNIVES 55 $4.00 $220.00
6074 ASST POCKET KNIVES 52 $6.00 $312.00
6075 ASST POCKET KNIVES 50 $8.00 $400.00
6076 SHEATH KNIVES 19 $8.00 $152.00
6077 POCKET KNIVES 14 $15.00 $210.00
6078 WOOD HANDLE SHEATH KNIVES 17 $30.00 $510.00
6079 RUBBER HANDLE SHEATH KNIVES 21 $5.00 $105.00
6080 WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 14 $6.00 $84.00
6081 LEATHER HANDLE SHEATH KNIVES 27 $11.00 $297.00
6082 AXES 14 $14.00 $196.00
6083 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 23 $12.00 $276.00
6084 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 16 $19.00 $304.00
6085 CAMILLUS CUTLERY KNIFE SETS 6 $40.00 $240.00
6086 QUALITY POCKET KNIFE SETS 9 $18.00 $162.00
6087 ASST POCKET KNIVES 150 $2.75 $412.50
6088 ASST POCKET KNIVES 50 $3.50 $175.00
6089 CAMILLUS WOOD HANDLE 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 20 $5.50 $110.00
6090 CAMILLUS WOOD HANDLE 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 35 $5.00 $175.00
6091 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $3.50 $210.00
6092 ASST POCKET KNIVES 25 $4.50 $112.50
6093 ASST POCKET KNIVES 90 $3.25 $292.50
6094 REMINGTON 2 BLADE 20th ANNIVERSARY BULLET KNIVES 12 $17.00 $204.00
6095 ASST WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 70 $4.00 $280.00
6096 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $3.50 $210.00
6097 ASST POCKET KNIVES 24 $8.00 $192.00
6098 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $5.50 $330.00
6099 SHEATH KNIVES 10 $8.00 $80.00
6100 SHEATH KNIVES 20 $6.00 $120.00
6101 BLACK HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 50 $5.50 $275.00
6102 BLACK HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 35 $5.00 $175.00
6103 REMINGTON 2 BLADE CAMO POCKET KNIVES 24 $6.50 $156.00
6104 ASST BOXED KNIVES 26 $10.00 $260.00
6105 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $4.00 $240.00
6106 ASST POCKET KNIVES 54 $5.00 $270.00
6107 ASST POCKET KNIVES 50 $4.00 $200.00
6108 ASST POCKET KNIVES 63 $4.00 $252.00
6109 ASST POCKET KNIVES 60 $4.00 $240.00
6110 ASST KNIVES 475 $0.00
6111 SS KNIVES 139 $2.50 $347.50
6112 ZIPPO SS KNIVES 200 $2.50 $500.00
6113 ASST POCKET KNIVES 175 $5.50 $962.50
6114 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 24 $4.50 $108.00
6115 BOY SCOUT KNIVES 40 $7.50 $300.00
6116 US 4 BLADE KNIVES 93 $6.00 $558.00
6117 CAMILLUS SS POCKET KNIVES 690 $0.65 $448.50
6118 2 BLADE SS KNIVES 140 $1.00 $140.00
6119 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 162 $1.00 $162.00
6120 GRANDPA POCKET KNIVES 155 $2.25 $348.75
6121 ASST POCKET KNIVRS 45 $6.00 $270.00
6122 4 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 60 $3.00 $180.00
6123 ASST POCKET KNIVES 40 $6.00 $240.00
6124 ASST POCKET KNIVES 47 $4.00 $188.00
6125 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 15 $7.00 $105.00
6126 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 15 $20.00 $300.00
6127 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 10 $9.00 $90.00
6128 ASST POCKET KNIVES 102 $4.00 $408.00
6129 ASST POCKET KNIVES 78 $4.00 $312.00
6130 CASE 4 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 37 $8.50 $314.50
6131 2 BLADE CASE KNIVES 32 $8.50 $272.00
6132 2 BLADE CASE KNIVES 21 $8.50 $178.50
6133 4 BLADE CASE KNIVES 40 $8.50 $340.00
6134 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 26 $4.00 $104.00
6135 ASST POCKET KNIVES 24 $5.00 $120.00
6136 ASST POCKET KNIVES 28 $7.00 $196.00
6137 REMINGTON SHEATH KNIVES 7 $17.00 $119.00
6138 ASST WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 53 $6.50 $344.50
6139 ASST BLACK HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 60 $3.00 $180.00
6140 PRINTED POCKET KNIVES 130 $3.50 $455.00
6141 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 23 $9.00 $207.00
6142 ASST WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 46 $2.50 $115.00
6143 ASST KNIVES 24 $8.00 $192.00
6144 ASST RUBBER HANDLE FISHING KNIVES 45 $0.00
6145 ASST BLACK HANDLE FISHING KNIVES 23 $5.00 $115.00
6146 ASST POCKET KNIVES 26 $5.00 $130.00
6147 FOLDING HOOK KNIVES 14 $4.00 $56.00
6148 ASST POCKET KNIVES 70 $2.00 $140.00
6149 ASST WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 33 $6.00 $198.00
6150 ASST POCKET KNIVES 39 $4.00 $156.00
6151 ASST POCKET KNIVES 45 $3.50 $157.50
6152 RED HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 95 $4.50 $427.50
6153 REMINGTON 3 BLADE KNIVES 90 $5.00 $450.00
6154 REMINGTON 3 BLADE KNIVES 75 $5.00 $375.00
6155 WOOD HANDLE POCKET KNIVES 54 $3.50 $189.00
6156 LEATHER HANDLE SHEATH KNIVES 35 $5.00 $175.00
6157 ASST POCKET KNIVES 34 $4.50 $153.00
6158 ASST RUBBER HANDLE KNIVES 13 $5.00 $65.00
6159 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 19 $5.00 $95.00
6160 CAMILLUS STEAK KNIVES 73 $2.50 $182.50
6161 ASST BOXED KNIVES 46 $13.00 $598.00
6162 ASST BOXED KNIVES 40 $4.00 $160.00
6163 ASST PLASTIC HANDLE BLADES 101 $0.75 $75.75
6164 ASST POCKET KNIVES 80 $3.00 $240.00
6165 ASST BOX CUTTERS 99 $0.50 $49.50
6166 MOTHER OF PEARL 2 BLADE POCKET KNIVES 67 $1.50 $100.50
6167 ASST SHEATH KNIVES 47
6168 CLOCKS 2
6169 DISPLAYS 2
6170 FLASHLIGHTS 173
6171 PIECES - 2 DOLLIES / 19 CHAIRS 21
6172 TABLES 14
6173 LED LIGHTS 55
6174 PIECES 369
6175 LED WAVES 83
6176 LADDER 1
6177 EASLES 2
6178 LOT COMPUTER EQUIPMENT 1
6179 P4 COMPUTER 1
6180 25" TEKNIKA TV 1
6181 OVERHEAD PROJECTOR 1
6182 TOSHIBA VCR 1
6183 SANYO VCR 1
6184 PLUS PROJECTOR 1
6185 LOT CABINET CONTENTS 1
6186 PROJECTION SCREEN 1
6187 TRADE SHOW DISPLAY 1
6188 TRADE SHOW DISPLAY 1
6189 TRADE SHOW DISPLAYS 2
6190 HOCKEY STICKS 2
6191 DEER SKIN 1
6192 CANON PRINTER 1
6193 3 COM ROUTER 1
6194 ASSERTANCE TAPE BACKUP 1
6195 DELL 1750 POWEREDGE 2
6196 DELL 1750 POWEREDGE 1
6197 XFMR 1
6198 SMART UPS 3000 APC 1
6199 TOSHIBA LAPTOP 1
6200 TOSHIBA LAPTOP 1
6201 T SHIRTS 25
6202 HP DESKJET 750C PLOTTER 1
6203 LOT SHELF CONTENTS 1
6204 KNIFE SHEATHS 983

[W5RWU]

Thanks LRV
w5rwu

[Phil Gibbs]

It was a sad event for me.

So terrible to see the proud old girl torn apart.
There was a lot of employees there between all three days.
It was truely wonderful to see them all again.

Had the pleasure of meeting LT too!

I got the 1902 Oil Painting.
Had to have it!

I believe it was actually painted in the 50s from a photo, but I am not sure (any info Camco?)

Rest in Peace Quiet Giant.
I can never thank you enough for all you taught me.

[lt632ret]

Well alrighty then. Date line Camillus NY Sept 19, 2007 . I did not get to the auction until Wed the last day. I had been in contact with Mr T Williams ( ie ) CAMCO ). I must say at this point that he is a true gentleman and is regarded by all with great respect ( including myself ). During our phone conversations he had advised me that there was a lot which included tang stamps. Again as with Schrade auction, these interested me since usually they are destroyed. As I have explained before this is often done to insure that the stamps will not be used to make unauthorized knives. They are perdectly legal to own until you use them to mark knives as you know my interest is in the historical nature of these items. Tom waited all day for the lot then when it was due to come up . They announced that a deal had been made to sell the stamps ect to the outfit who bought the IP or someone I am not really to sure Tom can clarify it. The package they bought included various items, was 62,000 dollars and the deal was cut in the back room. ( So what else is new ). However Tom knew of some others ( since he probably knows more about the buildings and everything else Camillus related than anyone else in the world ). So he bought the lot with those which actually was an entire office. We split the cost and I ended up with some stamps and two wonderful display boards with hundreds of Camillus parts. I had to take the parts off to get them home someday it will be interesting to reassemble, Kind of like an insane jig saw puzzle. However the main thing is that it is now safe and secure. I left on Tues and after 70 dollars worth of gas I my GPS ( which I named HAL) and my small RV arrived at the factory. It was around 5:30 PM Tues. I stopped a police Sgt and asked about the auction and where the Walmart was so that I could stay over. I was then informed me that Camillus was one of the only Walmarts that did not alllow parking over nite. It seems the locals made that stipulation before letting them build it. Then the Sgt informed that I could stay in the factory lot. I spotted a nice irish pub right next door and since I am self contained right down to a micro wave and color TV with DVD I figured I could struggle through the nite. Then Tom arrived he had been inside and loading his truck. He invited me to park my vehicle on his property and offered me an electrical hook up. So I followed him home which was I must admit a bit convoluted and keeping up with him was also a, er challange. Tom has a beautiful home and he treated me royaly. His mom had made a wonderful italian dinner for us both and after several servings, a couple of libations, and several hours of knife talk I conked out in the RV. We left early in the morning picked up and loaded what we could from the previous purchase of the office the day before and proceeded to the auction. An over all bid was first solicited to see if anyone wanted to purchase the majority of the 18,700 knives on the third floor WIP ( Work in Progress ). Smokey was of course the major player I really felt that if the offer was under a dollar per I would bid that since I just did not want to see it walk off for nothing ( as with what happened with Schrade ). Bidding was reluctant at first so (Tom offered the first bid as one cent per item I thought he was going to get killed by the auctioneer). As it was it went to 2.00 per which actually with the stuff there and the quantity I felt was not bad. It did not matter any way since then the stuff is auctioned off individually and which ever is higher is the way it is sold. It I believe went higher individually.

Then they started auctioning the finished knives. Now that was amazing since in some cases the knives went higher than retail it was quite insane some of it must have been due to it being on the internet. There were various plots and sub plots going on ( as usual) after several lots of the TL 29 knives had been sold on site and on line what was left went to a large manufacturer ( who has GOVT contracts which was supposed to be a secret whoops ). So those were left from what was originally bought by them to give the public some stock, then they bought the rest as they would have originally ( which was part of the game to look like it was all fair and square ) actually unlike Schrade at least they made an attempt to make it look good.

The main reason I had gone to the auction ( even though I had originally said I did not want to be involved ), was to save the historical artifacts the WWII plaque and some others. I really need it and the expense like a hole in the head. However I felt it needed to be done. As it were there were several others there who felt the same way most of them approached Tom and therefore me. There were five or six of us discussing this at one point . I brought up that since we all had the same goal ( That is to make sure the historical society in Camillus of which Tom is a major offical got and kept the stuff where it belonged ) that there was no sense us bidding against each other to drive up the price. I explained that as long as it was going to stay in the area I would be glad to step aside. Things were a bit undecided and then it seemed like there were even more individuals with the same idea. So, secure that I was not needed and even though I did want a couple of items ( none of which I did not already have displays ect ) and since I would have had to stay another nights since items purchased could not be picked up until the next day I started to say my goodbyes. As I passed Tom I stopped to tell him I was leaving and he was talking to a young fellow I did not at first recognize I heard him say that he was bidding on the plaques ect for his museum. Then I realized it was Steve Koonz from Smokey at which point I kind of lost it. I looked at him and said you are Koonz from Smokey he said yes I said you know I was just leaving however now I believe I am going to give you a run for your money. I explained who I was and mentioned what had happened at Schrade with the collection ( that was not going to be sold and then was ect ) I then explained my feelings on more northern artifacts being displayed in Tennesee instead of here where the familys of those people whose names were on that plaque who died in WWII lived. I was er my usual delicate restrained self . I must admit Mr Koonz was a gentleman he said how would it be if I bought these items and gave them to the Camillus historical society for as long as they wished to retain them? I said that if he would do that we could shake hands and I could be on my way to Turning stone ( A indian casino about an hour away ). To play some poker. I then said that I had kind of been down the path of promises before and that I sincerely hoped I would not be seeing these items in the NKCA in Tenn. He assured me that I need not worry and we shook hands. I did notice that there were two of his employees standing in back of me when I was a bit animated during the discussion. I did wonder if they were armed ( I knew I was ).

I have not written this post for a couple of days because I wanted to find out what had happened. Well I am happy and relieved to find out Mr Koonz is a man of his word and apparently the gentleman I took him for. It seems he did just what he said he would Tom has told me that he is in possession of the plaque and several other items purchased and donated by Smokey. I want to personally thank Smokey and particularly Mr Koonz for the donation and sticking to his word. Besides that, now I do not have to go to Tenn to rip it off the wall and bring it back. It is with the utmost of pleasure that I say THANKYOU again.

It was a pleasant trip as well as satifying. Besides the pleasure of meeting Tom, there were others Phil Gibbs, Bill ???? who used to own Atlanta cutlery, as well as several others. Everyone treated me well and with high regard I suspect that is because of being with Tom who again is very highly thought of. It also was as I knew it would be, a sad trip another sad scenerio for America. I met some great people who were employees. They spoke of the history of growing up in the area, even the factory smells that they had known all there life that now they noticed by there absence. They looked as always is the case sad and confused and it left me feeling not only sad but pissed off. They will survive they will come back they will overcome they are New Yorkers more than that they are Americans.

Thankyou to everyone I met, especially Tom . LT

PS Phil I am glad you got the Picture since It was another of the items I was concerned with. Tom does know the history of the painting and his mother knew or knows the artist.

[useem]

BRAVO It is also good to hear that about SMOKEY being stand up guys. I will continue to buy from them. Thanks LT

[Gr8Scout]

I'm glad Phil Gibbs got the oil painting. Good going. I'm very happy our CAMCO ended up with the stuff he did. It's in good hands.

LT, your story had it all... an epic journey, intrigue, a bunch of stuff leaving Camillus with you, an 'animated' discussion. As always, we all enjoy your colorful writing.

Well, we can all look forward now to a deluge of Camillus stuff for sale, mostly on ebay. Like flotsom on the beach. Some good, some junk. Looking back at the end of Schrade, we can mostly predict how things will go.

Thanks

Phil

[CAMCO]

Phil,
The 1902 painting of the cutlery was done by Henry Grieshaber who was a foreman in the basic dept. (press room). My mother knew Mr. Grieshaber but she does not remember what year he did the painting. He was a local artist and belonged to the Camillus Arts Society.

The building in the painting shows Camillus Cutlery Co. in 1902 when Adolph Kastor purchased the knife business. That same building was built by Charles Sherwood in 1894 when he started Sherwood Cutlery Co.

Angie and Tom Williams

[Phil Gibbs]

Many thanks Angie & Tom!

I will try to post a good pic for all to see here when it arrives.