Info on Ancient Multi-Purpose Tool?

[Plombob]

Saw this thing at an estate sale today. It belonged to the seller's grandfather who was in the railroad business. He was wondering if ther might be information on this tool somewhere. I took a couple of pics and said I'd post it here.

The only info is the name: "The Stewart Handy Worker" Patent Sept. 5, 1918. Chicago Flexible Shaft Co. Manufacturers Chicago, U.S.A.

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The grinding wheel has three speeds, set by changing the handle to one of the three gear shafts. Somehow the grinder comes off and the wheel on the other end controls the vise jaw.

Looking at the second set of jaws lower down, I wonder if there was a tool holder that slipped into those jaws so that you could grind with a bit more precision.

It was a well-made tool that cranked easily with no wobble after nearly 100 years!

If you have any info, I'll email the owner.

 

[trout]

there are a bunch of youtube videos of them being used.

that one is missing parts.

 

[1/2 Cup]

I can't help with any info, but what a trinket.

 

[bl00]

Follow this link to a search of Google books. The search results will take you to a bunch of old ads and info.
Link

 

[jakemac]

It looks like the grandfather of the Shopsmith. LOL

 

[kwblack]

I want it!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Mark914]

here is some Patent Info. although the pictures aren't too good

http://www.google.com/patents/US1196838

 

[devoncoolman]

Deffinatly a unique handy tool. Put that bad boy on a service truck.

 

[t4runner]

cool tool

 

[Plombob]

Thanks guys! That video is pretty cool. I'm sure 100 years ago that was a pretty handy tool.

 

[Bruce Lancaster]

In the patent on Google, click on the PDF up at top right corner. This will get you big, crisp drawings. That is one ambitious chunk of metal!