Box 298 Ashby, Massachusetts 01431
I have been restoring old engines and such for about ten years
and, at the same time, put together a home metal working shop of
mostly older salvage yard items and secondhand tools. I have
developed a high regard for the skillful men and fine machines that
made the industrial revolution and all our nice old toys possible.
In its day, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, was a major industrial city
selling machines and manufactured goods world wide.
Ignoring the advice of others, I decided to rescue this big old
Fitchburg Machine Works lathe. The lathe is a 72 inch x 21 foot
model, 30 foot overall length, weight 31,000 lbs. and manufactured
around 1900.
When I found the lathe, it was staged for destruction at a
salvage yard. I spoke with the crane operator who had been
scheduled to break it up that afternoon. He agreed to hold off
until I had time to speak with the yard foreman. After a few days
of haggling and looking for a truck to haul this monster, a deal
was struck and they even agreed to deliver. It is in pretty rough
shape and missing some parts, but with luck, I hope to restore the
lathe back to operation. My big worry is finding some major cracks
or war page due to mishandling during the loading and unloading
when scrapped.
I would like to locate any other similar Fitchburg lathes for
parts or just to admire in operation. I am also looking for trade
catalogs and parts lists for this lathe. I plan to do some research
into the history and product line of Fitchburg Machine Works and
would like to correspond with readers to share information or
receive any advice on parts or restoration.
