Images(2)

Tin Tools 2015-138; 2013-56; 2014-70 through 2014-81

Burring Machine

Date1840-1870

OriginAmerica

MediumIron, steel and wood

DimensionsOH: 17" OW: 11"

Credit LineGift of Stephen Eisenhart

Object number2014-79

DescriptionHand-operated machine with two adjustable disk-shaped dies set one atop the other, on geared axels. Spring-loaded adjustable guard set at the convergence of the two discs. Mounted on a wooden post for setting into a workbench top.
Label TextAt the beginning of the nineteenth century, Eli Parsons and Calvin Whiting received the first American patents for their machines invented to perform some of the functions of the tinsmith. By 1810, the duo had contracted with Seth Peck of Stonington, CT, who manufactured and continually improved the machines, and ultimately purchased Parsons and Whiting's patents.

Peck became very successful, and his machines were sold all over the United States. It is believed that by the mid-1830s, most American tinsmiths were using Peck's products, although this later machine bears no maker's marks. Called a "burring machine," this handy device was most often used to turn the edges of a cylinder or disk of tin so the two could be fitted together, much like the bottom of a can.
Markings"15" punched into top of frame.
ProvenanceFrom the Eisenhart collection of tinsmithing tools.