History Lesson 🔧 Crescent Wrench

Good morning. Welcome to your bit of ag history sent each Mon, Tue, Thur, & Fri. Read this and go impress everyone you know with your incredible knowledge…

The Crescent Wrench

It’s been used as a hammer and a pry bar, it’s rounded off countless bolts, it’s been cussed out and it’s saved many a day. One of the most versatile tools that is found in nearly every farmer’s toolbox is the adjustable wrench. Let’s take a look at how this tool came to be.

The Origin

It all started back in 1842, when Solymon Merrick invented the first adjustable wrench. Merrick's invention, called a "screw wrench," featured a screw that adjusted the jaw width. This tool was groundbreaking in its time and allowed workers to tackle a variety of nuts and bolts with one tool. However, his creation was clunky, heavy, and not very efficient.

Fast forward to 1888, and we have Johan Petter Johansson, a Swedish inventor who took Merrick's design to the next level. Johansson's "rapid wrench" featured a jaw that could be adjusted with a single movement, making it faster and more efficient than its predecessors.

The Iconic Crescent Wrench

In 1907, William Petersen founded the Petersen Manufacturing Company, and in 1915, he introduced the world to the first crescent wrench. Designed by a man named L. Coes, it featured a movable jaw that could be adjusted by turning a small worm gear. This design was so successful that the company, Crescent Tool Co., was named after it.

Innovations and Improvements

Over the years, the Crescent Wrench has undergone several changes and improvements. In 1922, the company introduced the "Dreadnought," a heavy-duty version of the wrench designed for use in shipyards and other industrial settings. In 1938, the company released the "Red Devil," a lightweight and portable wrench that became a favorite among farmers, mechanics, and DIYers alike.

In 1960, Crescent Tool Co. was acquired by Cooper Industries, which continued to innovate and improve the wrench. In 2005, Cooper Industries merged with Danaher Corporation to become Apex Tool Group, which still produces the Crescent Wrench to this day.

Today, the crescent wrench remains a staple in every toolbox, and its legacy continues to grow. In fact, it has become so iconic that it has even earned a spot in the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History!

Appreciate you reading today's edition - please share with 5 friends!

Brought to you by:

Was this shared with you? Click 'Subscribe' to add a bit of daily history knowledge to your inbox.

Email [email protected] to let us know topics we should cover or to become a supporter.

View past issues here.