Sheffield, England was a global hub for edge tool and cutlery manufacturing in the 19th century, especially during the mid-1800s, thanks to its access to quality steel and skilled labor. Here are some of the prominent edge tool makers from Sheffield during that time:

🔪 Notable Sheffield Edge Tool Makers (Mid-1800s):

1. Ward & Payne

• Founded in 1834.
• One of the most respected names in edge tools, especially chisels, gouges, and turning tools.
• Known for high-quality steel and fine craftsmanship.
• Their tools are still prized by woodworkers and collectors today.

2. Henry Taylor Tools

• Established in 1834 (same year as Ward & Payne).
• Specialized in woodturning tools, carving tools, and edge tools.
• The brand still exists today as Hamlet Craft Tools, continuing the Sheffield toolmaking legacy.

3. Joseph Marples

• Established in 1840.
• Made a range of woodworking tools, including marking gauges, chisels, and try squares.
• Still in operation today and known for traditional hand tools.

4. William Marples & Sons

• One of the largest and most famous Sheffield tool makers.
• Produced everything from edge tools to planes to layout tools.
• “Hibernia” trademark often associated with them.
• Often confused with Joseph Marples, but they were separate families.

5. Sorby (Robert Sorby & Sons)

• Founded in the early 1800s, possibly earlier.
• Makers of chisels, turning tools, carving tools, and other edge tools.
• Still in business today and known globally for high-end turning tools.
• Sometimes stamped “R. Sorby” or “I. Sorby” with their famous “Mr. Punch” logo.

6. Thomas Turner & Co.

• Another respected Sheffield toolmaker active through the 1800s.
• Made knives, edge tools, and some woodworking tools.

⚒️ Additional Names Worth Noting:

• Greaves & Sons – Primarily known for cutlery but also made edge tools.
• W. Peace & Sons
• Moseley (primarily planes, but some edge tools as well)
• Ibbotson Brothers – Known for saws and some edge tools.

These makers often exported tools globally—especially to the U.S., Canada, and Australia—and their stamped tools still turn up in antique tool chests and collector’s auctions. Sheffield steel had a world-class reputation, and many edge tools from this era are still perfectly usable today with a little sharpening.