Patented & Distinctive Bit Braces, a Research Study
by
George Langford, Sc.D.
Updated January 23, 2006
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Shepardson brace with A.W. Streeter's US Patent No. 61,113.

Here's a brace that A.W. Streeter invented to fit a niche.  What he claims and expressly does not claim tell the story:
A.W. Streeter's claims expressed in US Patent 61,113

Shepardson brace with Streeter 's US Patent 61,113You may notice that the brass hub of the pad exactly matches the patent drawing.
 		Streeter Patent No. 61,113
Streeter's patent no. anmd date
Streeter's chuck shown all together
Streeter's principal parts
Streeter detailed view
Streeter internal view
Inventor, witnesses' and attorneys' signatures
These parts are about as difficult to reconcile with the patent drawings as any I have ever found.  The drawings show very slender jaws, but in reality they are quite sturdy.  Yet, in spite of their robust appearance, in my brace, one has been replaced with a blacksmith-made replica.
The patent is dated January 6, 1867.  The worn makers mark is that of the H.S. Shepardson & Co. firm of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, according the Directory of American Toolmakers, edited by the late Robert E. Nelson and published by the Early American Industries Association, 1999.  I had the good fortune to be asked to review this fine and extraordinarily informtive book.