American File Company, chartered May 1863, was unusual in that it started as a stock company with a large capitalization. It was also one of the first American file makers to mechanize. In 1882 they employed 200 men and had a capital of $500,000. Despite these advantages, American struggled financially and was bought by Nicholson File in 1890.
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| American File Works box |
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| American File Co., photo by Gary S. |
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| 1890 Sanborn fire insurance map, New American File Co. |
American's first works was at the corner of Main St. and Pine St., Pawtucket (see Google Street View below). The company failed, and this works was sold to Slater Cotton Co. The reorganized business incorporated in 1875 as New American File Co. The new works was at 152 Dexter St., Central Falls, adjacent to Pawtucket. The third location was in the
block bounded by Dexter, Rand, Pine, and Mowry Streets, in Central Falls.
Pawtucket was a center of file-making, with about 9 firms in the late 19th century, with more information available at
Early RI Toolmakers & Tradesmen.
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