Hjorth Wrench Co. (Jamestown, NY) - See below advertisement for the Lightening Pipe & Nut wrench. 12/1904 is the earliest reference we have found for this company.
The 8/9/1899 edition of The Potter Enterprise (Coudersport, PA) notes that Mr. William Hjorth was in town attempting to sell the rights to a wrench, "which will fit nuts of various sizes and can be used as a pipe wrench. It can be used as a staple puller, screwdriver, and wire cutter."
William Hjorth & Co. (Jamestown, NY)
Forged Tool Products Corporation - According to the May 13, 1920 edition of The Iron Age, this company was recently incorporated by William Hjorth.
Patent #735,289 - Pipe-Wrench - Karl Peterson - Assigned to William Hjorth & Co.
Patent #738,444 - Combined Pipe & Nut Wrench - Arthur W. Hjorth - Assigned to William Hjorth & Co. // Although not cited, this appears to be an improvement on Patent #573,313
Sub Brands / Trade Names / Trademarks
- Empire (Wrenches, Pipe Wrenches)
- Lightening (Wrenches)
- Hjorth Bent Nose (Pliers)
- New Auto (Pliers)