Last Updated 9/1/00

From a guide book on Rockford, published in 1912 (I've lost the title of the book, will add it when I find it again):

Union Foundry & Machine Company is the oldest institution of its kind in the city and probably in this part of the country. It was formerly a stock company and was established in May, 1881. A few years later George Peterson became the sole owner. Mr. Peterson retains his ownership, with W. G. Shapley as manager. The plant is situated on River street from Morhan to Loomis and has about an acre and a half of ground. Under normal conditions it employs about thirty-five hands with an annual payroll of $25,000. The concern conducts a strictly jobbing business and all customers have the assurance their interests will have first consideration. The firm has had experience in many lines of work and is prepared to make gray iron castings for most all purposes, though castings of medium and heavy weight are preferred. The foundry business is exacting and its product must be equal to the strain the architect and builder estimates or the structure will collapse. The Union endeavors in every case to make a pillar or other casting stronger than had been estimated and thus do its part better than required, preferring to be on the safe side in its work. The company turns out a large quantity of product each year and ships it to great distances, being in the market for contracts from any point where its goods are needed. Columns, pilasters, lintels and other forms of architectural work are turned out and gray castings are made for all purposes and all weights, though most of its work is heavy.

Return to George Peterson's family page
 
 

Genealogy of Stephen R. Moore - Article on George Peterson's factory © 2000 Stephen R. Moore, 8504 Enochs Dr., Lorton, VA 22079