How Manufacturing and Machining Shaped America’s Fight for Freedom
Behind the Battle
The American Revolution is commonly painted with scenes of brave soldiers fighting for liberty, defiant patriots signing the Declaration of Independence, or leaders such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
What’s less recognized is the critical role that manufacturing and metal machining played in the contributions to sustaining America’s fight for freedom.
Industrial and technological advances were transforming the colonies in the 18th century. As economies diversified, the need for precision-crafted tools, weapons, and machinery became increasingly important. The efficient production of raw materials and manufactured goods for war gave a major advantage to the revolutionary forces.
Unsung Heroes
Blacksmiths were the unsung heroes of the American Revolution. They were the key in forging swords, muskets, pistols, canons, and other metal implements that armed colonial militia. They were also the producers of horseshoes, wagon parts, nails, and hardware needed to equip the revolutionary forces. During the Battle of Saratoga, a key turning point in the war, blacksmiths quickly repaired broken cannon carriages and other equipment giving them a huge advantage.
The Battle of Saratoga
Saugus Iron Works
Aside from blacksmith forges, the colonies had a machine tool industry that manufactured precision parts and munitions. Water-powered sawmills, mills, and grist mills processed raw materials like gunpowder and other raw materials. On top of being economic engines, these factories were important suppliers of military goods.
Saugus Iron Works
The most famous factory was the Saugus Iron Works in Massachusetts. It would produce pig iron, wrought iron, and a variety of other metal products. Saugus Iron Works would shift during the war into manufacturing cannons, musket barrels, and other armaments for the Continental Army. The shift from commercial to military production was one of the best early examples of America’s manufacturing capabilities.
This domestic production also allowed the Continental Army to avoid relying on foreign imports that would be subject to British naval blockades.
An American Long Rifle
Crafting Independence
From efficient and domestic manufacturing to quick repairs of firearms the progression of machine tools and manufacturing undoubtedly played a key role in the war’s outcome. Being products of the war, these advancements would set the stage for the Industrial Revolution and lay a foundation for the machining and manufacturing we have today.
In more ways than one, the American Revolution was won in the machine shops, forges, and mills of the colonies. The story of America’s founding is incomplete without recognizing the significant metal machining and manufacturing advancements.
Learn more about James Engineering’s contributions to American manufacturing!