Hardware wholesale houses were a dominant force in American retail business in the early 20th century. The larger ones sold their own brands of merchandise, especially tools. While the tool manufacturers were usually unknown, some brands like Keen Kutter and Bluegrass had as much respect as those of the makers themselves. Pictured below are some hardware wholesalers that sold files with their own brand. Other store brand files included Sears Roebuck, Wards, and Westcraft (Western Auto Supply Co.).
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| Supplee-Biddle Hardware Co. Franklin Files |
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| George Worthington Clearcut Files |
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| Hickory brand files, Duluth, MN, photo from Vance |
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| W. Bingham, Cleveland, OH, XLCR round file |
Wow, these pictures are great! Many hardware distributors has a larger business and branded. Thank you for posting!
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