Worcester Business Journal Special Editions

Dexter Russell, Inc.

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Dexter-Russell 65 S ince 1818, Dexter-Russell, and its predecessor companies, has earned a reputation for producing the highest quality cutlery, knives and other cutting tools. From the time of Henry Harrington, when shoe and cigar knives were in great demand, to today when Dexter knives can be found in culinary institutions, upscale restaurants, fine hotels and households, the tradition for excellence has continued. e company's reputation for exceptional craftsmanship is especially evident in some early product models. For example, between 1835 and 1860, the John Russell Cutlery Company manufactured the Green River "Dadley," a favorite of mountain men, frontiersmen, trappers and native Indians. e wholesale price for the knife ranged from $1.50 to $3.50 per dozen, depending on the handle, which was made of ebony, cocobolo wood, ivory or hard rubber. Some of the first Green River knives were stamped with a diamond shape, and the blade was hammer forged with a tapered tang. ese knives came with a fancy horsehide leather sheath decorated with brass tacks and brass plate stamped with the name of the maker and held with two brass rivets. Later models were etched with the brand name "Green River Works" on the blade near the hilt. e term "up to Green River" referred to a product of high standards, but also had a more ominous meaning: when the knife was plunged into an opponent as far as this lettering, it usually signified a deadly ending for the victim. PRODUCTS In 1875, the John Russell Cutlery Company launched the "Barlow," which became another legendary product. e company mass-produced this knife until 1930, applying its trademark – an R pierced by an arrow on each side of the long bolsters. With a reputation for being strong and durable, the original design was single-bladed; later versions had double blades. Russell manufactured at least 20 different types of Barlow knives in two basic sizes: a standard 3-3/8" long and a "Daddy," which was 5 inches long. A variety of materials was used for the handles, including bone; horn; model and genuine stag; iron; cocabolo; redwood; pearl; and other substances. e Barlow is largely responsible for saving Russell from extinction. In 1998, Russell- Harrington recreated the Russell Barlow as a commemorative tribute to the past. Products, Manufacturing and the Customer Green River Works Barlow 1998 reissue

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