A nice blog entry from some years ago and good Sunday brunch reading.
http://newenglandtravels.blogspot.com/2009/03/ames-manufacturing-company-civil-war.html
The Ames family goes way back in early American history and the descendants spread widely from the southeast of Massachusetts to much of New England. Early histories of Chelmsford and Lowell discuss Nathan's father and siblings. Trade grew quickly once the foundry was set up in Western Mass and some will note The Huse association, as the foundry used for these first foot artillery swords.
The Ames shovel company near cousins of the arms company and yet another branch of the family producing iron and steel in Connecticut. Huge association comes to mind.
Back to those early models of swords and his travels to England, and Europe, his swords were praised and largely copied. Main US competitors early were Widmann and Horstmann. In Horstmann's case a business far beyond the arms.
Hamilton's history is very good but laxking in the inspectors lists.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0917218183/?tag=civilwartalkc-20
There are still some around at original retail and through auction. Worth picking up at original list.
Simpson may still have some
http://www.simpsonltd.com/product_info.php?products_id=38963
Hickox collectors guide, a slim pamphlet like book covers inspectors in som depth, as well as Ordnance communication. The book covers all contract blades.
ISBN-13: 978-1877704116
ISBN-10: 1877704113
Cheers
GC
That is one cream puff of an early Ames.
Bringing the