Historical information

Peck, Stow & Wilcox was founded in 1870 by the merger of three different industrial tool manufacturers specializing in tin-processing equipment. Their factory complex was at 217 Centre Street in Southington, Connecticut. The company grew rapidly, and was by 1890 producing a diversified array of tools. It was also the town's largest employer. The plant was substantially enlarged in 1912, which is the period when most of the buildings surviving in 1989 were built. By that time, the complex was operated by Ideal Forging. That company went bankrupt in 2003, and the plant was acquired by real estate developers not long afterwards. Demolition of the premises took place in 2015, after hazardous materials were removed from the site.

Significance

A large American company that exported it’s goods all over the world and was a major producer of balance scales. The company no longer in existence and its products are now regarded as collectors items. The subject item in the Flagstaff Hill collection is significant as the pocket spring balance scale is one of the earliest produced.

Physical description

Spring Balance Scale Weighs 0 to 25LBS.

Inscriptions & markings

Stamped PS&W. Has a five pointed star stamped on front.