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This firm used clamps for an unknown purpose, but (to the best of my knowledge) did not sell them. I do not know if they made their own, or commissioned others to make them.
Here we have two examples; one is clearly a married item, and possibly both are, from the variations in the handles.
We have this example of the mark: The V.C. is an abbreviation for Valley City, while G.R. abbreviates Grand Rapids. Research by the Grand Rapids Public Library has determined that there was no independent firm or organization named Valley City Clamp Shop in operation in the period from 1890 to 1920.
There are two firms listed in Goss's History of Grand
Rapids and its Industries: Valley City Mills, and Valley
City Street and Cable Co (a street railway). The relationship of
V.C. Clamp Shop to these is still under investigation.
This name is not found in Goss, and
its connection to V.C. Clamp Shop (if any) is unknown.
The jaws have a flat uniform chamfer on
four edges.
The handle of the stopped is cylindrical, with a
well rounded transition to a flat end. The end of the stopped
spindle is usual.
The end of the through spindle has a slight taper.
The handle of the through spindle is very similar to the handle
of the stopped spindle.
This mark is found on both handles.
Usually, makers would sand this smooth. The fact that it is left
rough may be a sign that these clamps were made for internal use
only.
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