Snell Mgf Co. Brace Drill Bits

[J5hort]

Hey all,
Just cleaned up some bits from an old toolbox and observed some markings on them. Just wondering if anyone has heard of this company or has seen anything similar.

First piece looks like a straight screw brace drill bit. Some markings are worn but I can make out;
Snell Mfg Co. Fiskdale, MASS.
Made in U.S.A.
8/16



Second smaller bit is also straight screw brace drill bit. I can make out the following on the connector part of the bit;
-Snell U.S.A.




Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[RTM]

I have a handful of Snell bits, by different family members and associates. They started 1850 and ran til- 1930s, per DAT.

MFG was 1870-1905.

 

[J5hort]

Interesting. Is there any way to pin point date of specific units?

 

[RTM]

DAT has dates by company name, here are your choices, all Cities MA unless noted.

Smith Snell & Co 1848 - 9, Sturbridge
Snell & Atherton (leather tools, so skipping)
Snell & Bros 1850 (after Smith Snell, and before Mfg)
Snell Mfg Co 1870 - 1905 , Fiskdale, Sturbridge
Snell, Melville 1839 - 1841, Pawtucket RI, not known if related to others.
Snell, N.S. (saws)
Snell, Thomas (1790 - 1854, Ware, not known if related to Sturbridge group
Towne, Snell & Co 1841 - 44, Snellville (later part of sturbridge)


DAT Directory of American Toolmakers (pre 1900)

 

[J5hort]

Thanks, did not know what DAT was...for a minute thought you has some info in Digital Audio Tape.

Clearly, Snell Mfg Co, can make out the "dale" in Fiskdale below company name.

 

[RTM]

Thanks, did not know what DAT was...for a minute thought you has some info in Digital Audio Tape.

I try to include that every time, only a few here know it, always gets weird questions.