4/23/2012
Rescued Wilton
Derrick C.
Clearville, PA.
Votes: 1262
In 2009 my great-grandfather Thomas Fletcher passed away at 102 years old. Thomas worked as a plumber throughout his life. We were going through his estate cleaning out some old buildings with the family. We found this old vise which was cracked 50% across the base (if looking at picture: cracked at pen to bolt holes). So the family decided to scrap it. After seeing the WILTON name on it, I took a closer look. I am a welder by trade and new the "WILTON" company made good vises and c-clamps. I was not sure if it was made from cast material or not, so I decided to take a chance and weld it. I took it home and after a little grinding, welding and a new paint job the vise is still going strong. One thing I wish I knew is how and what he had in the vise to pretty much break it off the base. If only great-pap were still here to ask we both would get a good laugh.