West Milford, New Jersey 07480
Why not build them as you remember them states George Hall at 72
years of age. He has been a tool and die maker all his life and has
had an overwhelming interest in various gasoline engines since he
was ten years old. He opened up a small lawn-mower repair shop in
the early 60s in a quiet North Jersey town to serve the local
people with honest repairs.
About fifteen years ago an elderly old friend came into the shop
and explained to George that he had an old Fairbanks and Morse make
and break engine that didn’t run and was hoping that he would
look at it. After almost an hour of reminiscing about the good old
days and talking about the sweet sounds of the ol’ chuggers…
George realized that he had to accept the challenge of restoring
this friend’s particular engine.
It took almost a whole winter with many frustrating hours,
numerous hand made parts and a lot of loving care to bring this
iron to life. Alas… to that first pop, that oh, so familiar
sound, and the blue white smoke draping his shop, George knew that
this was the starting point of a new hobby with demanding time and
never ending enthusiasm. With all this spinning in his head he
immediately started looking for more of these beautiful iron
masterpieces that could be salvaged and restored, adding to his
collection.
The point in time finally came when George decided to build his
own make and break utilizing the many ideas and designs accumulated
over the years. He recalls many times when he would wake up in the
middle of the night and think about newer designs and better ways
to fabricate various moving parts. The next day he would find
himself down in his shop surrounded by a milling machine, drill
press, and an old Atlas 10′ lathe.
George spent six months fabricating parts, fitting pieces, and
assembling his engine to accurate tolerances. The finishing touches
were added along with a beautiful oak box artistically fabricated
by that same good friend.
George is an active member of the Blue Mountain and Sussex
County Antique Engine Clubs and presently is in the process of
building an Olds engine. He always looks forward to future shows
and his Gas Engine Magazine which he subscribes to regularly.
