F. S. Babbitt

F S Babbitt of Taunton, MA was an early (mid 1870’s) manufacturer of a lathe that came with a table saw and scroll saw. They advertised it as being for “Amateurs and Artisans” as can be seen in the catalog cut below. While considered more in the amateur/hobby grade category, it would have been for the serious crafts person.

There has been a mention that this combination machine was made by N H Baldwin of Laconia, NH. While there are some similarities with the products made by Baldwin and both were relatively early makers, here is some information that seems to show Babbitt was their own manufacturer.

 

A search of the census records of Taunton says “FS Babbitt as a manufacturer in 1879 at a capital investment of $8000 employing 5 people. They had an 8 hp steam engine and sold $7000 of “products.”

Additionally 

Babbitt, Francis Sanford, a son of George H. and Seraphene S. Babbitt, was born in Taunton, December 22, 1843. He was educated in Taunton public schools and Bristol Academy, and at the age of nineteen he enlisted in the 39th Reg., M. V. M., and served from that time (1862) until the close of the war in 1865. On his return from the war he engaged in the manufacture of machinery in Taunton, and continued in this business until 1890. He was a representative in the Legislature in 1882 and 1883; on the Board of Aldermen in 1887; and county commissioner from 1887 to 1893 inclusive. In the fall of 1890 he was elected mayor of the city of Taunton, and served the city in this capacity in the years 1891, 1892, and 1893; was appointed chief of police of the city in 1897, which position he now holds. Mr. Babbitt was married to Abbie L. Hitch, of New Bradford, in 1870, and she died in 1892, leaving one daughter. A. Louise Babbitt

 

In looking at the above information, feel it would be safe to say that FS Babbitt had the capability to make such as machine and at least initially was the maker.  Certainly, Baldwin, at a later date may have acquired the rights to produce the machine and/or sold them as a part of their already existing foot powered lathe line.

Here is a copy of a page from the 1880 Jackson & Tyler of Baltimore catalog showing the lathe as well as a Slide Rest and associated metal turning tools for light metal working.

 

 

This next set of pictures shows a different lathe that at some point, the owner must have wanted a longer bed so a wood one was made to replace the original cast iron on. Thankfully, they saved the original bed. You will also note the leg has been cracked and rewelded and there were other similar issues. This lathe is awaiting restoration.

More to come!!