Gorman manufactured Elbridge Drake's patented shingle machine design; Gorman had acquired sole rights to manufacture and sell Drake's design in the Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York territories. Gorman was definitely in business in 1867, and likely for a few years on either side of that date.
Information Sources
- Seen on old-paper.com: a 3-page announcement that John Gorman has the sole right to manufacture and sell E. Drake's patent shingle machine in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. The announcement is dated 1867, and includes a drawing of a new and larger unit.
- From patent records: Elbridge Drake of Gardiner, ME, received 1858, 1864, and 1879 patents for shingle machines. Drake was apparently a sawmill operator who patented improvements to his machines.