Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
COLLIS WOOD AND METAL MANUFACTURING COMPANY
COLLIS WOOD AND METAL MANUFACTURING COMPANY. Originally the company was a pattern making business for moulders and foundries. Seeing an opportunity, the company shifted its direction. Incorporated on April 16, 1907, the company employed forty-five mechanics and others in the manufacture of products from wire and iron. The company's specialties included refrigerator shelving and specially constructed machines used by hosiery manufacturers. In 1906 it was estimated that 75% of the wire shelving used in refrigerators was made by this company. Much of the machinery used in the plant was designed and manufactured by the company.
In 1911 the wages earned annually by the employees was $20,800. The company's annual income was estimated conservatively at $60,000.
The 1909 through 1911-12 Dubuque City Directory located this business at 301 South Locust.
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Source:
"They Make Wire Goods," Times Journal, September 30, 1906, p. 21