Original October 16, 1882 business letter on ornate letterhead from the Office of the Gosnold Mills, Manufacturers of IRON, New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Written in purple ink, this letter discusses the shipment and pricing of iron rods and bars, referencing prompt delivery and acceptance terms. Signed by Geo. H. Cornell, Treasurer.

The letterhead features bold typography with decorative flourishes around the word IRON, a striking example of late 19th-century business stationery from Massachusetts iron industry.

Date: October 16, 1882

Location: New Bedford, Massachusetts

Company: Gosnold Mills (Iron Manufacturing)

Signed by: Geo. H. Cornell, Treasurer

Ink: Purple handwriting

To Clark Brothers & Co of Milldale Connecticut.

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about CLARK BROS
Clark Brothers Bolt Company – Milldale, Southington, Connecticut
Founding & Early History

Established in 1854 by William, Henry, and Charles Clark, the company started in Milldale (a district of Southington, CT), manufacturing bolts, nuts, washers, screws, and rivets. 

It played a major role in the town’s industrial development and eventually became one of the nation’s leading carriage-bolt manufacturers, thanks to innovations like their specialized "hammer lathe" that could simultaneously form bolt heads and cut threading—significantly boosting efficiency and automation. 

Fire, Rebuilding, & Expansion

A devastating fire in 1893 destroyed their original plant, office, and warehouse in Milldale. 
Patch

They rebuilt promptly, constructing a new 100,000-square-foot brick facility on Canal Street, powered by steam, marking a shift away from their earlier water-powered operations. 
Signature Brand Factory

This new complex—known as Clark Brothers Factory No. 2—was built between 1911 and 1918 and expanded during World War I to support increased production capacity of bolts, rivets, nuts, and other fasteners. 

Legacy & Closure

The company persevered into the post–World War II era, but ultimately could not compete with lower-priced foreign imports and shut down in 1987, closing after 133 years in operation. 

Prior to closing, the company donated its corporate records, photographs, and artifacts to the Southington Historical Society, preserving its legacy for researchers and local history enthusiasts. 

Historical Recognition

The early original mill on South Main Street (Factory No. 1) was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988, although it has since been demolished. 

The rebuilt Canal Street complex (Factory No. 2), also listed in 1988, still stands (though its original industrial use has greatly changed). 

Present-Day Role

Today, 409 Canal Street (the former Factory No. 2) has been redeveloped into a multi-use commercial space, retaining its industrial charm and rebranded as “409 Canal St..” 

Part of the old factory has been transformed into an industrial-chic event venue. For example, Clark Hall at Kinsmen Brewing Co. uses reclaimed factory materials and hosts weddings and gatherings, paying homage to the site's heritage.

Authentic period piece related to family, history or local heritage - well-suited for historical collections, genealogical /genealogy research, or museum acquisition.  Vintage or Antique.


CONDITION:  See listing description and photos.











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