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The History of I&D Smallwood Makers Birmingham

Spirit Level I&D Smallwood Brass and Wood Military Marked Antique 1917

Spirit Level I&D Smallwood Brass and Wood Military Marked Antique 1917

1917
See Item

This article takes you through the fascinating history of I&D Smallwood, a Birmingham-based company renowned for its precision tools and craftsmanship.

Discover the rise of I&D Smallwood, from its early days in Birmingham to its expansion into precision tools. Learn about its innovations, success in the 19th century, and its lasting impact on the industry, as well as its eventual decline and acquisition.

1912: Title Page of I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog, Rules, Squares, Spirit Levels, Gauges, Tapes, &e.
Image: 1912: Title Page of I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog, Rules, Squares, Spirit Levels, Gauges, Tapes, &e.
Source: The Cooper’s Tool Museum

I&D Smallwood, founded in 1810, was a prominent manufacturer of precision tools based in Birmingham, a city renowned for its industrial legacy. Initially established by Josiah and Daniel Smallwood, the business began as a steel toy manufacturer and later pivoted to producing high-quality measuring tools, including rules, squares, spirit levels, and gauges.

A page from the I&D Smallwood 1912 catalog displaying a selection of their precision tools, including spirit levels, squares, rules, gauges, and straight edges, crafted to the highest standards for engineers and craftsmen.
Image: A page from the I&D Smallwood 1912 catalog displaying a selection of their precision tools, including spirit levels, squares, rules, gauges, and straight edges, crafted to the highest standards for engineers and craftsmen.
Source: Grace's Guide To British Industrial History

Early Years: 1810-1830s

In the early years, the Smallwood brothers operated out of various locations in Birmingham, with a significant presence at Barford Street and High Street by 1829. At that time, John Smallwood also engaged in the production of coach brasses. By 1833, the company was recognized as an iron square maker, a crucial milestone in their specialization in precision tools.

A page from the I&D Smallwood 1912 catalog showcasing a variety of precision tools, including boxwood, ivory, steel, and metallic folding rules, iron and steel squares, and spirit levels, all crafted with the highest standards of accuracy.
Image: A page from the I&D Smallwood 1912 catalog showcasing a variety of precision tools, including boxwood, ivory, steel, and metallic folding rules, iron and steel squares, and spirit levels, all crafted with the highest standards of accuracy.
Source: Grace's Guide To British Industrial History

Expansion: 1840s-1860s

In the 1840s, I&D Smallwood's reputation as a maker of iron squares continued to grow, prompting their move to New John Street. By 1860, they relocated to Ryland Street and Darwin Street. During this time, their offerings expanded to include not only iron and steel squares but also boxwood, ivory, and metallic folding rules, countermeasures, timber gauges, and cistern rods.

1912: I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog Featuring Boxwood Rules
Image: 1912: I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog Featuring Boxwood Rules.
Source: The Cooper’s Tool Museum

Success and Innovation: 1870s-1930s

By the late 19th century, the company was well-established, with listings for a diverse range of tools. In 1937, I&D Smallwood exhibited their products at the British Industries Fair, showcasing their extensive catalog of precision tools. During this period, they continued to innovate, including the production of steel and brass measuring instruments tailored to engineers, carpenters, and masons.

1912: I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog Displays Masons' and Steel Squares
Image: 1912: I&D Smallwood's Birmingham Catalog Displays Masons' and Steel Squares.
Source: The Cooper’s Tool Museum

Decline and Acquisition: 1950s-1999

After Josiah Smallwood's death in 1890, the company was handed down to the descendants of Daniel Smallwood. The business continued to operate under various family members until it was registered as I&D Smallwood Ltd. in 1951. Despite continued success and patenting improvements in spirit levels in 1961, the company faced financial struggles in the 1990s. In 1999, the company was acquired by G. Gibson & Co. Ltd., marking the end of the Smallwood legacy in precision tool manufacturing.

1912: I&D Smallwood's Catalog Page Featuring Straight Steel Bench Rules
Image: 1912: I&D Smallwood's Catalog Page Featuring Straight Steel Bench Rules.
Source: The Cooper’s Tool Museum

Legacy

I&D Smallwood's impact on the precision tool industry is still felt today, as their products were crafted to the highest standards and used in industries ranging from construction to engineering. Their legacy of fine craftsmanship and innovation remains an integral part of Birmingham's industrial history.

Timeless Craftsmanship: I&D Smallwood's 1912 Birmingham Catalog, Embellished in Golden Elegance on Rich Red Leather. A Treasury of Precision - Rules, Squares, Spirit Levels, Gauges, Tapes, & More.
Image: Timeless Craftsmanship: I&D Smallwood's 1912 Birmingham Catalog, Embellished in Golden Elegance on Rich Red Leather. A Treasury of Precision - Rules, Squares, Spirit Levels, Gauges, Tapes, & More.
Source: The Cooper’s Tool Museum

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