Chapter III: Part 3

Patented December 31, 1867.

The object of the invention which is herewith illustrated, is to enable the spindles of mill-stones to be adjusted with perfect accuracy, and at the same time furnish bearings of anti-friction materials, which may be kept constantly and perfectly lubricated, and from which all extraneous dust or grit, calculated to aggravate friction, may be kept excluded.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of this improvement, and Fig. 2 is a sectional view of the same, showing details of construction. A, Fig. 2, is the spindle, playing in segmental bearings B.

There are four of these, which, together, make up the entire bearing for the spindle. They are hollow, as shown in the engraving, and faced with anti-friction surfaces.

The outer sides of these segments are inclined, these surfaces resting against the inclined inner surfaces of the hollow binding wedges C. Through the lower part of these wedges pass hooked bolts, D, with thumb nuts at their lower ends, by turning which the wedges are forced upward, and the segments B being prevented from rising by the top plate E, are forced inward till their surfaces are brought in proper proximity to the spindle.

It is evident that by raising and lowering these wedges, as circumstances require, the spindle can be adjusted with the greatest accuracy.

Lubrication is secured by placing a store of oil, in the chambers F, of the segmental bearings B, from which it is fed, as wanted, through the apertures G, to the bearing surfaces of the spindle and bush. Lastly, the exclusion of dust and grit is secured by forming a chamber H, upon the top plate of the bush, with an annular cap which shuts down over it, and encloses the spindle, in which chamber is placed packing yarn or other suitable material to intercept all extraneous material of this character.

The top plate is bolted down to the external portion of the bush, and the whole enclosed, as shown in Fig. 1.

All experienced millers are aware that the attainment of the above objects by a simple device is a very desirable achievement. By the use of this improvement the adjustment can be readily and accurately made, and the wear of the spindle is reduced to a minimum.

We can fit any size spindle from 3½ to 5 inches diameter, and have three sizes of bushes, 7½, 8½ and 9½ inches square. In ordering bushes, all that is necessary is to state the diameter of neck of spindle and size of eye in bed stone, and the proper size bush will be shipped. Satisfaction guaranteed.

We have some half dozen different patterns of bushes ranging in price from $2 to $20--some having three and some four followers for wood or metal.

Lighter Screws and Hand Wheels.

These engravings illustrate the style of hand wheel and screw with cap and washer that we make and furnish with our combined husk mills, and when ordered we send them with the irons needed with mill stones. The figure on the right shows the hand wheel, screw cap and washer in position when ready for operation. The wrought iron screw is cut in a lathe and is what is termed a square thread. The wheel cap and washer are all turned and polished, making a good looking, durable fixture, as well as an accurate means of adjusting the stone. We sometimes make these of brass.

Lighter Levers and Arched Step.

This shows our pattern for arched bridge pot and lighter lever for geared mills or when an elevated step is wanted. The part holding the steel on which spindle rests, is contained in a central lifting chamber, which is turned to fit the body of the arch, like a piston, thus allowing a perfect perpendicular movement without any liability to vary from its true position; the heavy set-screw at the rear end of the lever is to admit of more adjustment; the lever can be moved around at most any required angle without interfering with any part of the step. We provide means (not shown in this cut) to tram the spindle by screws placed in the central lift part of the step, when desired.

Mill Steps.

Of these we have various styles, some sufficiently heavy for a six foot mill stone, and to tram by screws. The centre lift part is constructed in same style as the arch-step described above. We have patterns of all lengths of lighter levers, as shown under head of Lighter Levers, which fit over this style of step in same manner as shown, excepting we provide an independent rest for the rear end of the lever and screw for regulating it. This makes a very desirable rig for the lower end of mill spindles in any mill, and are fast taking the place of all others. It obviates the cutting of the bridge-tree or timber on which it rests.

The steel on which the spindle-toe rests and presses sidewise in running is constructed in various ways. In some situations we provide a flat plate, below for taking the downward pressure, and above it a heavy steel ring supported a little above to allow a chamber for the flow of oil around the very extreme lower end of the steel spindle toe. This chamber is free to be supplied with oil from the upper receptacle through holes provided for the purpose. A bearing made with a hardened steel plate below and a ring of good anti-friction metal around the spindle-toe is the most desirable when properly constructed and of suitable metals.

MILL CURBS AND HOOPS.

Of all the various styles and sizes we are better prepared to make than any other establishment we know of in the United States. We keep on hand large quantities of the material of which they are made so that it may be thoroughly seasoned before use. Their construction is as follows: the tops are made of double-thickness lapped and tongued and screwed together. The body is made of pine staves, worked on a double-headed tongueing and grooving machine made for this purpose, with their mandrels in radius positions to make a close fitting joint for any size we choose to make; the outside bands are of black walnut, under which we place neat iron bands, one at the base and one near the top, under the projecting curb or top. For protecting the wood from being affected, we coat the inside with white lead paint, and give the outside three coats of good varnish. In the preparation to ship them and keep every part from the liability of damaging in the least, we make a complete protection of a light frame work and circle pieces surrounding the whole. When the hopper frame and feed rig is ordered we place them inside. This not only makes a strong and durable cover to the mill-stone, but one that for style of finish and attractive appearance pleases all.

Silent Feeders.

Of these we make some half a dozen kinds, differing somewhat in construction and appearance, some of which are shown in the accompanying cuts. Fig. 1 is of the style known as “the glass globe tripod.” The globe is made of the best clear flint glass from one-fourth to one-half inch in thickness. The iron frame can be lifted from its bearings on the curb at any time. The hand wheel and screw by which the feed to the stone is regulated, is provided with a spring so that by pressing upon the wheel the feed tube can be suddenly raised if necessary, when by the action of the spring it will take its exact position as before. All the parts are carefully fitted up, the hand wheel and such other parts turned as necessary to complete it in a tasteful manner.

Fig. 3.
]

With those shown in Figs. 2 and 3 we make large or small conical hoppers, of heavy tin, galvanized iron or brass. The feed rig shown in Fig. 3 is called the Bracket Rig. The feed wheel is turned, and all fitted up in same manner as the others, and suits more millers for custom and merchant mills than the other styles. Those however which are most frequently wanted is this bracket rig with the ordinary wooden hopper and frame, after the style shown upon the mill on page 17. If a feed attachment is wanted, with shoe and damsel for feeding corn, mixed feed, &c., we usually send the kind shown on the mill, page 14. In all cases where orders are given for any kind of a feed attachment for mill stones, we must know the size of top of curb, size of opening in it and distance from top of bail or balance iron to top of said curb, size of eye in stone, and when feed plate is wanted, give width of said balance bail, and if there is anything projecting above it, give its size and shape, so that we can fit the feed plate, damsel or what may be ordered, to it.

Proof Staff.

To promptly and satisfactorily fill all orders in this line we keep on hand a complete assortment. The use of this article in a mill of two or more run of stones is not as fully appreciated as it should be; we do not see how a miller can well get along without it.

The kind we furnish we think are the best in the market, exactly true, made of the best shape to retain a true face, provided with a spirit level in the back; for correctness no other can excel it, and the whole is placed in a close fitting, nicely finished box. Three sizes are made, see list.

Red Staffs.

These articles of the various sizes used in flour mills we make of the best entirely dry and seasoned cherry lumber. The stuff is prepared by suitable machinery, every piece carefully fitted, then secured by glue and screws, the latter liberally put in. Both the staff and box are finished in neat style, well varnished, and sold at a price that will not pay for making them at the mill, unless the material was at hand and advantages better than usual.

Mill Picks.

We have under our constant employ pick makers that know their business, and we are having imported for this purpose a brand of English steel made expressly for mill stone picks. We make three sizes with eyes, unless otherwise ordered, as follows: light cracking, heavy cracking and furrowing. (See price list for prices, weight, &c.) If any points should prove defective (as will occasionally happen) do not have any other maker or smith work on them, but return to us and we will make it satisfactory, and send back at once, as we warrant every one. We have ready for shipment several patent picks, some of which we have tested and describe as follows:

Cumming’ Pick.

Description.

Fig. 1 represents the entire Pick ready for use. In Fig. 2 the pick or blade is shown in connection with the clamp-bar. While in Fig. 3 is given a complete sectional view of all parts of the device. In this Fig. C C represents the head or stock, and G the clamp-bar with its wedge-shaped head H. At K is shown the blade with its upper end bent to fit the notches in the clamp-bar. The device is perfect without the set screw F.

In adjusting for use the blade is placed upon the clamp-bar as shown in Fig. 2, and both are inserted within the socket of the pick-head; they are driven firmly into the socket by using. It will be seen that the more powerful the blows upon the stone the more securely is the blade confined within its socket, resulting from the wedge-like form of the clamp-bar. While to remove the blade reverse the pick and strike the opposite end of the clamp-bar on any solid substance, (a small piece of iron placed on the face of the mill stone is most suitable,) when the bar and blade will be instantly released, and another blade can be readily inserted. The blades being of a uniform thickness and temper only require grinding to sharpen. The wearing portion of each blade is 3½ inches; as they are worn by use they can be let down in the ratchet. Ten blades furnished with each.

Crossley’ Pick.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view, and Fig. 2 a sectional view.

This improvement supplies a want long felt by millers, more especially those who have not the convenience of sending their picks to a good blacksmith who understands tempering steel.

A is a wedge-shaped plate, which is attached to the handle by a screw shank; B is a piece of metal made so as to partly fold about A, as shown, but leaving a space between A and B, in which the steel bit C is held by a lug formed upon it, which fits into a corresponding recess in the plate B, as shown in the section, Fig. 2.

It results from this arrangement that blows upon the bit C, in dressing a stone, more firmly clamp and hold the parts together, while to loosen them, all that is necessary is to tap the plate B on the end opposite the cutting point or edge, which unwedges the two plates and releases the bit.

Two recesses are provided in the plate B, so that when the bit is worn down it can be set further out from between the plates A and B. When one end of the bit becomes so worn as to be no longer available, the bit is reversed, and the other end applied to dressing the stone. Thus the bit may be used until it is almost entirely worn away. It is retained firmly, and yet is instantly detached for sharpening or for adjustment.

The head is made of Malleable Iron, and the blades of the _very best quality hammered cast steel_, tempered the whole length, and do not require blacksmithing, but only to be ground when dull.

The price places these Picks within the reach of every miller.

Twelve 6 inch double blades sent with each head.

Hoisting Screw, Wrench, Bails and Pins.

We are well prepared for making the above articles and have all ordinary sizes on hands ready for use. The outfit is of the very best material; the wrench, screw, &c., is of wrought iron, and together with all the parts is in fine proportion and of great strength.

Damsels.

These we generally make to order, but we keep at all times a few of such as are mostly called for.

Those with from three to five beaters, with staff, and all wrought iron, are mostly ordered for merchant and sometimes custom mills. We have a variety of patterns for cast iron damsels with oval beating part. We turn and polish both kinds so as to make a neat and useful article. In ordering these some needed dimensions are necessary to enable us to meet expectations.

ELEVATORS.

This engraving represents the head and part of the trunk of an Elevator, or what is termed an elevator head; Fig. 2 (on next page) represents the elevator foot. An elevator head and foot as furnished by us includes Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 with turned iron pulleys in them, the necessary shafting, and an outside bevel or spur gear wheel or turned pulley to receive power for driving the Elevator.

NOTE.--The iron spider as represented leaning against the Elevator head (Fig. 1) has no connection with any part of it except to show the shape of our patterns in that line.

Elevator Cups (IMPROVED.)

Of all the sizes required for any kind of an elevator we make in our establishment. Having long employed a workman on this work with special machinery of our own, and as we buy the stock in large quantities, we are as well equipped as it is possible to be for making this useful appendage of a flour mill. Their advantages are: durability and economy, the different sizes are perfectly uniform, of the smaller and medium sizes the body is made of heavy tin, and all having an iron band neatly and skilfully secured around the upper edge. It makes a thoroughly strong, smooth, at the same time a light cup, and offering the least resistance in passing through the grain of any cup now offered.

They are less liable to catch on the sides of the Elevator trunking, and no breaking and tearing as is common to the cheap wired or rough iron cups secured to the belt in the ordinary manner. Cheap cups made in the usual style, wired tops, for old mills and repair jobs, constantly on hand.

Our Improved Fastening.

This is of special advantage, has been used since 1869, and all who use and see it pronounce it vastly superior. It is a copper clasp nicely contrived to firmly clamp the bucket to the belt. It perforates the belt and cup through two or three slotted openings. The cup can be easily removed from the belt; it does not cut the belt so as to weaken it; it prevents the cups from tipping as they pass down. The expense is some more than screws, but those having put up common warehouse elevators with this fastening, think it the cheapest article in use.

Bag Trucks.

The frequent calls for this useful article has induced us to prepare for and make them in large quantities, until we find ourselves supplying the leading retail and jobbing houses of the west cheaper than they have been heretofore supplied by eastern makers. It is a better constructed and more desirable tool than will generally be found. We make a box truck also, similar in style.

Conveyor Flights.

Of all sizes required, made of sugar or maple lumber. They are smooth, uniform and of desirable shape. In ordering, give dimensions of face or front of flight and size of hole you intend driving the tenon into; also, the size and kind of wood the shaft is made of.

BUCKWHEAT BOLTS.

We make these of various sizes. Some are wanted to make flour rapidly for some particular markets, and require to be of large size, with medium fine cloth. Those in most common demand are for custom mills and of two sizes: one with 8 feet, and one with 10 feet reels in complete chests with conveyor and necessary cut-offs for changing grade of flour; a shaft with coupling, and outside pulley or pair of bevel gear wheels is furnished, so that it can be driven from either end. Every thing is done to facilitate the convenience of setting up and attaching power. The cloth is made up of “Dufour & Co.’s best Dutch Anchor,” to fit the reel, and of proper numbers for the work required. When a bolt is wanted for this purpose we should know the capacity required of it, &c.

Meal Bolts.

These are made in chests with conveyor, cut-offs, &c., as described under head of “Buckwheat Bolts.” Cloth adapted to requirements, either of wire or silk. These are of two sizes, 5½ and 8 feet reels.

Belting.

“A good belt is what I want,” is the remark often made, and to supply our already large trade in this line, we have made the necessary arrangements to ship on call what may be wanted at the lowest rates. In ordering, it is well to state the purpose for which it is wanted. For elevators, we recommend leather belting; when something cheaper is wanted, we furnish three-ply cotton duck. It is not so durable, but is firm, and strong as any gum belt, and answers a good purpose for a cheap warehouse, meal or feed elevator.

Perforated Zinc, Tin, Iron or Steel Plates.

Of most all sizes and shapes of holes for zig-zags. Riddles, malt-kiln floors, corn screen, and smut mill jackets furnished at low rates.

Screen Wire.

For wheat screen, meal bolts, &c., from number 2 to 24 meshes to the inch, most all widths, in any quantity desired. Wire is even and good size to form a strong fabric.

Duster Wire.

English and American wire for bran-dusters, 9 inches wide. The kinds mostly in demand we keep in stock.

NOTE.--In ordering perforated plates or woven wire, it is best to give us as much time as possible, as it is impossible to keep made up and in stock all the kinds wanted.

PRICES, TERMS AND WEIGHTS.

From our price list, although full and explanatory, it is difficult for some to get a clear understanding, especially when a complete outfit is wanted, including every iron, belt, &c., to attach power; therefore, write us stating clearly as possible your wants, when we will make a proposal of cost. We will send our printed weight and price list, when required.

As a rule when our customer is ready to order, or on our commencing the work and making it ready for shipment, we require a payment of from one-eighth to one-half of the whole amount, and settlement on or before delivery, which is when a shipping receipt is taken, as the work then passes into the ownership of the purchaser. By special arrangement we often ship to the care of some satisfactory person or firm who will receive and make settlement for the supplies. This person may reside at or near to the point of destination. Do not think us exacting; all we want is an equivalent for our products and some reasonably safe means of getting it.

TESTIMONIALS.

Under this head we have a few voluntary letters, answers and extracts from those who are using our Mills, &c. Manufacturing the outfits of grinding mills being our special business, it has been our custom to keep regularly informed by correspondence as to any objections or defects there could be in our work, and the results are numerous answers, which we have endeavored to print worded the same as they appear in the letters. In some cases, of course, the ideas are somewhat disconnected, as they were not written for the special purpose of publishing, but it is the facts that we are after, and they unquestionably show that our efforts to make the BEST MILL NOW OFFERED are a success, besides imparting much valuable information, some of the writers having spent half a lifetime in the milling business. All of these letters may be seen on file at our office, and the mills in their respective places in constant use.

Two 36 Inch Geared Mills.

CEDAR POINT, Chase Co., Kansas, Dec. 12, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co:--

Agreeably to your request we write to inform

you how we are getting along with our mill. We started our wheat burrs on the first inst. We had promised our customers we would do this months ago. We run through just enough of our own wheat to fill the mill and get the flour started, and then commenced on grist work. The first was a grist of spring wheat. We took one-sixth toll and made 30 lbs. of flour per bushel, which was pronounced by the owner the best he had ever had in Kansas, and he is an old resident here. We have been grinding regularly since, and in no instance have we heard one word of complaint. On the contrary, we are fast gaining a reputation, and the prospect for lively times with us is most flattering. This and the adjoining counties are full of wheat, and there is a very large scope of new country to be supplied south and west of us. We have already made about one hundred 98 lb. sacks of flour for ourselves, and have sold the most of it. It is evident we are not going to be able to do the work with one run for wheat. We have only run ten days, and our flour has already gone from twenty to sixty miles. We think that you will agree with us that our mill is a perfect success. We set up the burrs ourselves, and got Mr. Britton of Cottonwood Falls Mills to assist us in getting the other machinery in line. What is the least in cash at which you can furnish us a Bolt like the one we have, with Elevators, Gearing, &c., and a Geared 30 inch Corn Mill? Hoping to hear from you soon, we are,

Yours respectfully, O. H. DRINKWATER & Co.

In January, 1871, the above firm ordered a 16 feet double reel bolt, and another mill; they were shipped soon after, and we have another letter dated as follows:

CEDAR POINT, Chase Co., Kansas, April 9, 1872. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co:--

The mill machinery we purchased of you gives first-rate satisfaction. The two run of three feet geared mills we run with a 48 inch Leffel wheel under 7 feet head while at work, and grinding 10 bushels per hour on each mill. The 2½ feet under-runner corn mill we run with a 35 inch Leffel wheel under same head, and grind 15 bushels of corn into fine meal per hour with ease. This same wheel runs both the single and double reel bolts that you sent us, as well as the other machinery of the mill excepting the two wheat stones. Our works are all of your make, and we have been running since the 1st of December, 1869, and are well satisfied with the whole outfit. They have been used almost constantly to do our grinding which is considerable and on the increase. We do as good work as any mill in the State, and any one wanting good works in this line, we would recommend to you.

DRINKWATER & SCHRIVER.

It is the Best Machinery for Custom Work.

ETNA GREEN, Kosciusko Co., Ind., Feb. 3, 1870. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co:--

_Gents_:--Will say in reply to your inquiry, the 36 inch Mill I bought of you in November, 1869, gives entire satisfaction. I can average ten bushels an hour, and the 22 ft. Bolt does the separating of the bran and flour complete; the work is giving general satisfaction. The 26 inch feed Mill is all you recommend them to be. The Smut and Separating Machine is the best, I verily believe, in use. It is sure pop on cheat and rotten wheat; and, in short, all filth. I will say it makes the wheat fit for grinding, complete. I did grind twenty bushels in seventy minutes, by the watch, and did good work, on the 36 inch mill. My mill is driven by a 7¼ inch by 16 inch cylinder engine, and boiler 16 ft. long, 4 feet in diameter with three flues. I can make an average on the two run of 22 bushels per hour. With two cord of wood will grind on the two run over two hundred bushels. I have been engaged in the flour milling business for twelve years, and would say, the above described machinery is the best I have found for custom work; this is my main business.

CHARLES FRIBLEY, Miller and Proprietor.

Pulley Mills--No better in the State of Ohio.

JOHNSVILLE, Montgomery Co., O., Jan. 24, 1870. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co:--

I have two of your mills, with bolt, and smut machine, 36 inch for wheat, upper-runner, and 30 inch under-runner cock-head mill for corn; have been running them constantly since August, 1868. I have taken hold of the mill myself; I can make more flour to the bushel than the miller I had. I have made 40½ pounds of the best of flour out of a bushel of wheat and toll one-eighth. I have had splendid luck in grinding. My miller had run me out of custom, but I am restoring it again. I have got the burrs in better order than they ever were; can grind close and make the best of flour. I can take a bushel of the best Tappahannoc wheat and make 47 pounds of splendid flour. I have made 42 pounds of common red wheat and tolled one-eighth, which would be 5¼ pounds added to 42 pounds, making 47¼ pounds of good flour. I have been awfully humbugged in getting poor millers; have made but little and lost custom. The first time I dressed the wheat burr, I run the corn stone all day-ground buckwheat, and cracked the wheat burr in one day. She then ground splendid and clean at the rate of ten bushels per hour.

A. CLEMMER.

Under a more recent date we quote from another letter: “I am running the mills yet with better success than ever, making good flour and large yields. On several tests have made 47½ lbs. lately of excellent flour from ordinary red wheat. If you could give me some information about keeping the furrows in the stones in order to grind cool and fast, I would be thankful; as far as keeping in tram and cracking the face, I am doing very well. I grind close and bolt clean. I have taken 60 lbs. of good white wheat and made 50 lbs. of flour. What do you think of this? The farmers say I can beat any mill they have tried. Please answer, and give me all the instruction you can. It may be best for me to get a No. 1 Dresser to work on the furrows some, and I may catch items by it. I have an order from New York for 100 bbls. of flour at this time. I would like to exchange a half dozen of those light picks you sent me for heavy ones, and pay the difference. I like a 2 pound pick the best for light cracking.

Yours truly, ANDREW CLEMMER.”

Three Geared Mills. No Expense for Repairs.

GREEN CAMP, Marion Co., O., March 22, 1870. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co., Richmond, Ind.:--

It gives us pleasure to write that we have used the Mills furnished us by you, since May 28, 1868--two 42 inch Wheat, one 30 inch Corn under-runner. The Wheat Mills have run ever since without one cent repairs, and without any apparent wear--the balance being so perfect, and being put up in so substantial a manner. They give entire satisfaction, always doing their work in the best possible manner. The two 22 feet Bolts are all that we could wish, doing their work well, without one cent’ repair. The Corn Stone, under-runner, 30 inches, will do double the work of 42 inch upper-runner Corn Mills, and do the work _well_. The Smut Machine always does its work well. The work was all put up in so substantial a manner by your James Albertson that we have never made any repairs, only to replace perforated zinc on Smut Machine. Our flour always brings the highest prices.

Yours, respectfully, FOSTER & KANABLE.

Cannot do Better.

WESTFIELD, Hamilton Co., Ind., Jan. 8, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gentlemen_:--In answer to your letter of inquiry of Dec. 30. Your mills are doing well, they are giving as good yields and better flour than the large, old style mills. Your 30 inch upper-runner mills for wheat, grind from six to ten bushels of wheat per hour, and your 36 inch mill from eight to twelve bushels of wheat per hour. By crowding a little when the stones are sharp, will grind much more than I have stated. Your bolts and smut machines work well; your mills run light, considering the work to do. A 15 horse power engine, 8 by 16 inch cylinder, will drive two run of your 30 inch mills,--60 pounds of steam,--and will drive them twelve hours with one cord of wood. I think all wanting mill machinery cannot do better than to order from the “Richmond Mill Works.”

Yours, respectfully, DAVID CAREY.

36 Inch Geared Mill, 20 feet Bolt and Smutter.

NEW MAYSVILLE, Putnam Co., Ind., March 1, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Sirs_:--I must tell you about the mill that I got from you. I am well pleased with it. I can grind from twelve to fifteen bushels per hour, and make first-class flour. I have run twelve hours with a half a cord of wood. I have a good custom and still gaining. I have done the best work with your mill that has been done in this country. There are several mills around me. I have stopped some of them from running; they get nothing to do in the line of custom-work. If I gain in work for the next six months, like I have for the last, I will have to get another mill. I am getting all I can grind now.

Yours, LEWIS W. GEORGE.

Mr. George’ mill is driven by a large sized Portable Engine.

N., M. & Co.

From same place we hear from Mr. George again under date of March 20th, 1872. I am still running the mill here that I got of you. I am looking for a larger engine, and can you give me information as to prices, size, &c., for three run of stones, same size as you sent me before? Suppose your prices and terms are the same. I have ground 100 bushels per day on this one on the average, and use ¾ cord of wood per day. I have regular customers that come by the doors of my competitors. Here they say they get better flour and more of it than at the old style water mills, and their own flour from their own wheat. In the four years that I have used your mill I have had but one item or bill of repairs to foot, which was one set of wood cogs. I often grind 15 bushels per hour, and do good work, but find the bolt will not clean it so well at this speed of grinding. I like your larger bolts, as improved, much better. I grind when the stones are in average condition as to sharpness 8 to 10 bushels per hour, and satisfy all in quality and yield of flour. There are two mills at Bainbridge, 7 miles, and two others, 6 and 7 miles in other directions, so you see I have competition all around me. Now, give me figures on the other mills, with your improvements. I have been a miller over 20 years and want a model job.

Yours, respectfully, L. W. GEORGE.

One 3½ ft. Wheat Mill, and One 30 inch Corn in Combined Husk.

SPEIER, Blue Earth Co., Minn., July 16, ’72. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gentlemen_:--I started my mills on the fourth day of July. It gives entire satisfaction. It over-reaches your recommendation. My miller says he thinks the burrs the best he ever saw. I think I will be able to meet my note promptly at the expiration of the sixty days given.

Very respectfully, GEO. W. WOODHAM.

Corn Mill and Portable Engine.

CANOLA, Howard Co., Kansas, June 17, 1872. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co., Richmond, Ind.:--

_Gents_:--Yours of 7th inst. is received, and will say in answer, that our mill came through all right and complete, excepting the hopper frame, which we mended without any expense, consequently did not report it. After thoroughly trying the mill, have to say that it fully comes up to the warrant, and beats it, as we can grind from 25 to 30 bushels per hour of good merchantable meal, with our Gaar, Scott & Co.’s fifteen horse engine and 80 lbs. of steam, and if we were to buy another mill it would be of the same brand.

Respectfully, yours, MORGAN & LATTA.

What an Old Mill-Wright Says.

GUTHRIE, Lawrence Co., Ind., June 27, 1872.

_Gents_:--

The grist mills we purchased of you that we are using, are all right. Our miller has followed mill-wrighting and milling for 30 years with us, and he says that a better mill never run than the “Richmond Mill and Bolt,” as they are now improved.

KINSER & WHISENAND. MOSES FRENCH, Miller and Millwright.

The Nordyke or Richmond Mill, Stands the Test.

BOXLEY, Hamilton Co., Ind., June 21, ’72. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gents_:--At your request I will write you what I am doing with the mill you made. My engine is a 10×18 inch cylinder, boiler 42 inches diameter and 20 feet long, with two large flues, and the stones, if you recollect, are one of your heavy husk, 3 feet upper-runner mills for wheat, and one of your 30 inch under-runner for corn and feed, and with one and a half cords of wood every ten hours we can grind the week through 10 bushels per hour on the wheat stone, and 20 bushels per hour of corn on the corn stone. It has now been over four years since this mill was started, but it does better work now than then, because of its better management. I have new customers almost every week from near other mills. It is no mistake, I make better flour--and my millers have discovered it--than any of the larger mills through this country. I need another run of wheat stones and bolts, as with them I could manage the whole with my engineer and miller, and do about double the wheat grinding with but little additional expense. Out of the wheat of the year before last I made 40 pounds of flour from weighed wheat per bushel, after tolling one-eighth; from last year’ wheat I could not do it, it being rather light in this section.

Yours very truly, RILEY WILSON.

Its Equal Cannot be Found in the State.

GREENFIELD, Ind., Dec. 23, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gentlemen_:--Yours of 23d inst. came to hand this date and contents noted. Our mill gives perfect satisfaction, and must say we don’ think its equal can be found in the State, of its size. Our smut mill can’ be beat. We would cheerfully recommend your mills to any one that contemplates building or refitting, in preference to any other mill. Our old mill was burned on the night of July 3. We commenced cutting timber for the new mill July 17, and the building was ready for the machinery August 7; machinery set up and running October 12, and during the time of setting up machinery one week was lost by the sickness of your mill-wright. The machinery of our other mill was made in Cincinnati, but it does not at all compare in finish and usefulness to our present mills. We now run three pair of stones, and grind faster on each of them, with less fuel, than we did on two pair before. We have two pair of 36 inch wheat burrs and one pair of 30 inch corn burrs in one of your Combined Mill Husks with long spindles; all three are under-runner cockhead mills. They are driven by eight inch belts, with tightner pulleys. This way of driving is so convenient for stopping and starting the burrs, that we would now use no other arrangement. Our two Bolts are single reel, 22 feet long. We have ground fifteen bushels per hour on each of the wheat mills, and twenty bushels per hour on the corn stone. When the wheat mills are in moderate order we consider ten to twelve bushels per hour a fair speed for grinding and bolting, and making a good yield. Our customers often get 40 and 41 pounds of flour to the bushel after tolling. Our Engine is 10½ inch cylinder and 20 inch stroke; it runs 110 revolutions per minute. Eighty pounds of steam will drive all three run with ease. It requires about four cords of wood to convert five hundred bushels of wheat into prime flour. We can say but little more in relation to our mill, other than this, that any one contemplating building a mill would do well to see our mill before building; would be pleased to have you come out and see our mills run, and should you have occasion at any time to refer people to us, would be happy to show them our mill and give them what information we are able to.

Yours, with respect, WOOD & Co.

On Feb. 14, 1870, Mr. Wood stated to us in person that on Feb. 12, they ground twenty bushels of corn into nice family meal in forty-three minutes, or at the rate of nearly _thirty bushels per hour_.

N., M. & Co.

Another Letter Near Three Years Afterwards.

GREENFIELD, Hancock Co., Ind., May 18th, 1872. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.,

_Gentlemen_:--Yours of 10th inst. came duly to hand; have been so very busy have not found time to answer sooner. We can only repeat what has already been said in relation to our mill; it gives perfect satisfaction. We would not like to be considered vain, but we do think we have the best mill in the State. Our mill has stood the test of near three years constant and hard labor, with no perceptible wear.

Yours respectfully, WOOD & Co.

WM. G. SALLIE, Miller.

This mill is located on the P., C. & St. L. R. R., 20 miles east of Indianapolis.

URBANA, Ohio, Sept. 20, 1870. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.

_Gents_:--Your mill gives entire satisfaction. Enclosed please find check on First National Bank of Cincinnati for the full amount of your bill.

Yours truly, H. M. CHEW.

36 Inch and 30 Inch Geared Mills.

BROOKSTON, White Co., Ind., Aug. 5, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.,

_Gentlemen_:--We expressed you the amount of last note on mills yesterday. We have commenced grinding new wheat, but it is in rather bad condition yet. We are doing a very good business, and are giving perfect satisfaction in quality and quantity. We can make from 35 to 40 pounds of flour per bushel, and grind on an average from eight to ten bushels per hour. We have a 25 horse power engine, and can run both mills, bolt, smutter, elevator, conveyors and corn shellers with from 60 to 70 pounds of steam, and do it with all ease.

Yours, truly, A. VENCIL & Co.

Oct. 20, 1869, Messrs. Vencil & Co. ordered their third run--a 36 inch geared mill, together with 20 feet Bolt, No. 1, Richmond Smut and Separating Machine, Flour Packer, &c.

N., M. & Co.

UNIONTOWN, Bourbon Co., Kansas, Aug. 26, ’71. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.,

_Gents_:--Find enclosed draft on New York for twelve hundred and eighty-eight dollars and sixty-five cents, which, if you have not forgotten, is the amount of the first note. Please send it (the note) with the name torn off. Our mill gives entire satisfaction. Will write more fully in the future.

FOSTER & KIRBY.

Perfect Custom Flour and Corn Mill.

MONITOR, Tippecanoe Co., Ind., March 1, 1872. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co., Richmond, Ind.:

_Gents_:--We have used your machinery with persevering energy, now commencing the second year, and have a larger custom patronage than all of the other four mills nearest us. Our machinery consists of a 42-inch iron turbine water wheel, under 9 feet working head; one 3 feet upper-runner mill for wheat; one 30-inch under-runner mill for corn; one Richmond Smutter with screen shoe separator; one 20 feet bolt, all of which you made for us.

The wheat mill runner is in such perfect balance that we can run it within thin paper thickness of the face of bed-stone; thus face to face it will run with nothing whatever between them to the speed of 270 revolutions per minute. Any grinding mill, no matter how heavy the runner stone, can be made to do this, if provided with your improvements; and it pays well to have a mill so rigged. When the hoop is on our wheat mill, a man standing six feet off and looking at the nicely turned back, cannot tell that they are running. Not a particle of jar or shake about them. The self-tram irons are the nicest thing ever invented; would not do without them for half the price of the whole mill. With one-third gait we can grind of wheat 8 to 10 bushels per hour, and make more and better flour to the bushel, than any mill our Mr. Fretz (in his 18 years of milling experience) has ever seen.

With a full gate it may surprise you to know that we grind of corn on the corn mill 25 to 40 bushels per hour. Our flour stands the highest of any that comes to LaFayette. There is no such thing as choking down, as is so often experienced with other mills. We would advise those wanting mill machinery to go to the Richmond firm and look before they buy elsewhere, or they are welcome to see our mills run, which will satisfy any one that understands anything at all about a mill. It only took us 15 days to set up our mills for running. Our machinery was shipped from works on the 1st day of February, to Lafayette, and on the 13th we commenced setting up by the assistance of your mill-wright, and on the 1st day of March, 1871, we started up and run every working day since, and without any expense at all for repairs or changes. Our pulleys being balanced, there is no such thing as any of the bearings heating. Our mills are run with 10 inch belts from upright shaft and pulleys. The smutter does better work than the Eureka or Silver Creek.

Yours, with respect, REDINBO, FRETZ & BRO.

D. B. Fretz, } Millers and W. B. Fretz, } Proprietors.

Three Pair of Burrs in a Combined Husk, with Belts.

MONROVIA, Morgan Co., Ind., Feb. 22, 1870. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gents_:--It has been eight months since you re-fitted our mill. We can run all of the Burrs, (one 42-inch and one 36-inch for wheat, and 30-inch under-runner for corn,) twelve hours on one cord of seasoned beech or sugar-tree wood. With 50 to 60 pounds of steam we grind on each Burr eight to ten bushels per hour. Our customers are highly pleased with their yields and the quality of their flour. In fact, our custom has more than doubled since the introduction of your mills. On our own account, we can say, in simplicity, durability and lightness of running it exceeds our expectations, and, if necessary, at any time can cheerfully recommend to others wishing mill machinery.

Yours, truly, HADLEY & TAYLOR.

After Years of Steady use they Say.

MONROVIA, Morgan Co., Ind., May 8, 1872. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co., Richmond, Ind.:--

It is now three years since we overhauled our mill and put in your improved machinery; since which time it has been run almost daily as a custom mill, and in quality and quantity of flour gives universal satisfaction. In fact, the custom increased one-half since its introduction. We find it very permanent and durable, as well as tasteful in style and finish. We can grind at least 10 bushels per hour with each run of burrs, and use from one to one and a fourth cord of wood in ten hours’ grinding on all three stones. We would recommend all desirous of purchasing mill machinery to procure yours, believing their money will be well invested if they do.

Yours, truly, HADLEY & TAYLOR.

MADISON, Indiana, May 6, 1872.

_Gents_:--Yours of the 3d inst came duly to hand, making inquiries how we are pleased with our mills that we purchased of you over three years since, (we expected to write you before this.) If you remember our Burrs are sharp old quarry, not very open, and they make very lively flour, and don’ get dull as soon as most others. Our stones are, two pair of upper-runner 3 feet mills. We make a barrel of flour with 3 pecks of coal; we do not know that we could say anything more, excepting that they work fine, and together with the bolt you made for us, make flour that we can find ready sale for in any market along with the best brands. Your flour bolt deserves special mention; with the knockers or “percussion apparatus,” as you term it, which we can stop or start at any time while the mill is running, we are able to keep the bolt clean and bolt through the fine cloth without specking or injuring the flour. The arrangement of the bolt for clean bolting, we think is your best effort.

Very truly, yours, W. W. & B. F. PAGE.

The above is from Madison, Indiana, 60 miles below Cincinnati, on the Ohio river.

ROCHESTER, Ind., Feb. 14th, 1872. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gentlemen_:--Our custom work runs from 60 to 250 bushels per day of wheat, besides a large amount of corn. Although there are several mills here, our flour has the preference, and sells more ready than any; the self-tram irons are perfect. You shall hear from us again.

Yours, truly, A. L. BOWMAN & Co.

This mill is composed of two run of our 42-inch and one run 30-inch in combined husk, the two former being upper-runner, latter under-runner. They use our 20 feet double reel bolt and other supplies for the complete furnishing of a mill.

Two 30 Inch Pulley Mills.

CARMEL, Hamilton Co., Ind., Jan. 4, 1869. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gentlemen_:--The mills purchased of you last May, set up and started by David Carey, have given entire satisfaction. Our mill consists of two run of 30-inch upper-runner burrs, pulley mills--one for corn and one for wheat--can grind from seven to ten bushels of wheat into the best merchantable flour, and from ten to fifteen bushels of corn into fine meal, per hour on each burr. Our bolt is sufficient to bolt the above amount, and performs well. Our mills and machinery is driven by an engine, 8 by 16-inch cylinder, and runs 170 revolutions to the minute. We can run the entire machinery ten hours on three-fourths of a cord of wood, have been running almost every day since we started up. Our custom is still on the increase, extending over a great amount of country. We run now every day, while other mills in town and immediate vicinity do not run now to exceed two days in the week. Your mill and bolt arrangement is the only thing suitable for custom, and does well for merchant work. We would recommend persons who think of buying mills, to give you a call--or if we purchase again we will do so. We will take pleasure in showing any one our mill.

Yours, respectfully, CAREY & ROBERTS.

Lay by Your Old Notions.--36 inch and 30 inch Pulley Mills.

CUMBERLAND, Guernsey Co., O., Feb. 14, 1870. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Sirs_:--We have used your mills since the 4th of last November. We consider them durable as any mills can be. We can grind on our 36-inch wheat mill from fifteen to twenty bushels per hour, owing to the grain, and can make flour that will satisfy any community, both in regard to quality and quantity. On our 30-inch corn mill, we can grind forty bushels per hour, if the corn is dry. Our miller says he can make forty barrels of XX family flour in ten hours. We have a twenty-five horse power engine. Our boiler is twenty-two feet long, for two inches in diameter, and two flues. It affords enough power, under seventy pounds pressure, to drive both mills together with their attendant machinery, which is one of your twenty-two foot Flour Bolts, No. 1 Richmond Smut Machines, Buckwheat Bolts, Elevators, Shafting, &c. Three bushels of coal per hour is all we require. To those wishing mills we would just say they had better lay by their old notions and procure improved mills.

Yours, &c., HOWELL BROTHERS.

Mill and Bolt Cannot be Beat.

HAMBURG, Fremont Co., Iowa, Jan. 11, 1869. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Dear Sirs_:--I have had one of your 36-inch Pulley Mills and 18 feet Bolt in operation nearly one year. I like it very much; my flour gives general satisfaction; am averaging ten bushels of wheat per hour on the one pair of burrs, making the best flour. In short, I think your Mill and Bolt cannot be beat. It is driven by one of Leffel’ 20-inch Double Turbine Wheels, under a total head and fall of 11 feet 9 inches.

Yours, respectfully, H. LAMB.

Under date of January 25, 1870, Mr. Lamb orders another run of 36-inch burrs, together with bolt, &c., complete.

What One of Our three feet and 26 Inch Under-Runner Mills will do.

HOUSTONIA, Pettis Co., Missouri, March 3, ’72. MESSRS. NORDYKE, MARMON & Co.:--

_Gents_:--The balance of the things we ordered came to hand yesterday. We have started the corn mill and the way it ground, we were all surprised; 30 bushels per hour of fine meal is a side show for it. The miller says he can grind 40 bushels per hour of corn into fine even meal, every part of the works go off right; will be ready to start the wheat mill last of this week. Our miller is an old experienced hand, and is doing a good job in putting the wheat stones in flouring condition; will write you soon again how we succeed in making flour; have strong competition, and it must do 1st class work to prove a good investment.

Yours, respectfully, J. L. WILLIAMS & Co.