Thomas Addison
Thomas Addison 1838 Patent Drawing
Although others had been awarded patents for pencil designs in the late 18th century in America, the United States Patent Office had suffered an inferno in 1836 resulting incineration of early patent documents. James Bogardus was awarded a pencil slide & case patent on September 17, 1833, and although the patent drawing survived the claim language (arguably the most important part of a patent) was destroyed. All 9,957 patents and 7,000 related patent models were lost.
Addison is considered by many to be the father of American pencil production.. This example from circa 1825 by Addison & Co. Is a Perpetual Calendar version with “Onion” End Cap Top.
Although Bogardus was awarded a pencil patent in 1833, Thomas Addison was a dedicated pencil maker who became a patent holder In 1838.
Addison Calendar Pencil
Addition produced iconic calendar pencils with onion tops.
Thomas Addison partnered with Wilmarth, Lownds, and Others
Mr. Addison partnered with or contracted for apprenticeships several notable men involved in the pencil or pen making industry. Jacob Lownds and Jonathan Wilmarth.
The above advertisement mentions that W.M. Wilmarth was "late" Eaton, Griffiths & Co., and formerly Addison, Wilmarth &Co..
Addison Pencils and Pen/Pencil Combo
The Addison silver pencils are 2 models most often found, one of which contains a calendar option and is marked Addison & Co. All others are simply marked Addison.
The gold combo is engraved “Theodore A. Tellkampf, M.D. by the Sophomore Class of Columbia College Feb’y 21st 1848”. The elaborate gold top design exhibits early art of the American pen holder revolution.
The gold Addison pencil depicted is the only example found that was crafted from gold. This item is under evaluation to determine if it is based upon his 1838 patent. Mr. Addison’s gold pen and pencil holders were crafted from 18k gold.