For sale is a rare early 1900s BRASS HAND TORCH made by Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Company; Clayton, Detroit, Michigan. This torch has a wood handle. The brass pump tube to pressurize the torch is marked with a 1902 patent date. The bottom of the pump tube is missing a knob. The torch nozzle needs to be re-welded to the tank. Despite these minor flaws the torch displays well and is in good condition for its age. The torch stands about 8 inches high. The base of the torch is 4 and 1/2 inches in diameter. An excellent collectible antique tool.
Joshua Lambert was born on his father Solomon’s homestead in 1837. As a formal education was not available in those early days of Michigan Statehood, Joshua spent his youth learning the trade of blacksmithing. In the early 1880’s, Joshua went into business with a man named Nelson J. Clayton, under the name “Clayton, Lambert & Co.” In 1888, having developed new designs for blowtorches and firepots, Nelson and Joshua began operating under the name “Clayton & Lambert Manufacturing Company”. In 1891, the company was incorporated under the laws of the state of Michigan. By 1899, demand for the Company’s products had increased beyond its production capacity, and a larger manufacturing facility was sought out. In 1902, a new factory was constructed in Detroit. By 1909, the company was the nation’s largest manufacturer of heat tools.
