This company made the patent dovetailed-column Little General drill press. Two patents were issued for the variable speed mechanism. An earlier patent was issued in 1922 but was withdrawn for some reason. A subsequent, patent covered a slightly different variable-speed mechanism and that patent was issued at the end of 1923.

Articles and the one example we have seen indicate that almost from their introduction, the drill presses were distributed primarily by Joseph T. Ryerson & Son. In any event, the company and the drill press proved to be short-lived.

Information Sources

• We learned of this maker from an owwm.org discussion.
• April 1917 The Boiler Maker.

  New All Purpose Drill

  The "Little General" is a radical departure from the usual type of sensitive drill. It embraces many time-saving features; has quick and flexible adjustments; and obviates all the awkward movements unavoidably present in the operation of drill presses ordinarily in use.

  It is designed to met every need of general shop and tool room service. Its wide range and variety of speeds readily adapt it to production work when required.

  Belts and gears have been eliminated. The principle of the drive transmission is known as the "V-Disk." These disks are of fiber, tapered to an 18 degree angle. Theymesh with grooves disposed at a corresponding angle, thus effecting a substantially positive grip.

  The spindle swings in a complete circle around the column, thus enabling the operator to reach large and heavy pieces in any position. The table swings in a semicircle and both the table and head have an unusually large vertical adjustment.

  A direct reading speed shift dial indicates each of the 18 speeds and the size of drill best adapted to the various materials. Other advantages claimed for this new principle drill are—the long reach from drill to column; the small number of levers and working parts; the accurate depth gage graduated in both inches and millimeters; and the quick and convenient provisions for shifting and adjusting which reduce to a minimum the waste of time which is unavoidable in the use of many other drills.

  The "Little General" has a drilling capacity, straight shank drills, of ½ inch. By using turned down shanks it is possible to drill one inch in brass or, with care, in iron. Complete information can be secured by writing Joseph T. Ryerson and Son, Inc., Chicago, Ill.