J.B.F. Champlin and the History of the Cattaraugus Cutlery Company

Description

J.B.F. Champlin and the History of the Cattaraugus Cutlery Company

For more than a century, the name Cattaraugus Cutlery Company has been synonymous with quality American knives. Yet the remarkable story of its founder, J.B.F. Champlin, has remained largely untold.

Drawing on years of original research, vintage newspapers, family papers, genealogical records, company documents, and other primary sources, historian and photographer R. Derek Smith presents the most comprehensive account ever assembled of Champlin’s life and his lasting influence on the American cutlery industry.

Beautifully illustrated with historic photographs, rare documents, advertisements, and contemporary images, this oversized hardcover volume follows Champlin from his humble beginnings in western New York to the creation of one of America’s most respected knife manufacturers. Along the way, it separates documented history from long-repeated legend while exploring the people, businesses, and events that helped shape an entire industry.

Whether you are a knife collector, historian, genealogist, or simply appreciate exceptional American craftsmanship, this volume offers an engaging and richly illustrated look at one of the most influential figures in American cutlery history.

• Deluxe hardcover coffee table book
• 12 × 9 inch landscape format, 296 pages
• Collector’s Edition
• Limited to 200 signed copies
• Hundreds of historic photographs and references
• Extensively researched from primary sources
• Full color throughout
• ISBN: 979-8-31781-115-0
• Carefully packaged for shipment
• Ships within the continental United States