1856–1890s
Foundations and Early Growth
Mayhew Steel Products traces its roots to 1856 in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, where it began as W.H. Maynard & Company. After several changes in ownership, H.H. Mayhew took the helm in the late 1800s, establishing the H.H. Mayhew Company. Early on, the company built a reputation for manufacturing reliable hand tools—screwdrivers, punches, and chisels—that were widely distributed and featured in industrial catalogs across the United States.
1840–1957
The Maydole Hammer Legacy
A significant parallel chapter in Mayhew’s story began earlier with the founding of the Maydole Hammer Company by David Maydole in 1840, famous for its innovative “adze eye” hammer design that improved safety and durability.
In 1939, Mayhew acquired the Maydole Hammer Company, expanding its product portfolio. During World War II, the company produced 100,000 hammers for the U.S. Navy. Unfortunately, production ended after a fire in 1957, and attempts to restart in 1961 were unsuccessful. Still, the Maydole legacy remains an important part of Mayhew’s history.
1915–1920s
Transformation and Innovation
In 1915, the company reorganized as Mayhew Steel Products, Incorporated, marking a new era of expansion and innovation. The following years saw the introduction of patented products such as the Mayhew 1/4 Pin Punch (1918), which featured a knurled grip for better handling, and the “Solid Joint” pliers (1924), designed for strength and manufacturing efficiency. These innovations helped solidify Mayhew’s reputation for quality and ingenuity.
1930s–1990s
Ownership and Family Stewardship
J.W. Lawless began working at Mayhew in the 1930s and, by the start of World War II, had become the plant manager. The Lawless family became partial owners in the 1950s, gained controlling interest in 1962, and achieved complete ownership in the 1990s. Under their stewardship, Mayhew experienced decades of stability and long-term growth, ensuring the company’s continued success.
21st Century
Expanding Reach and Product Lines
Throughout the 20th century, Mayhew’s tools were distributed by leading industrial suppliers, appearing in catalogs from Central Automobile Supply, J.M. Waterston, Pittsburgh Auto Equipment, and many others. The company’s broad distribution network established it as a trusted name in American hand tools.
Mayhew’s product line evolved from basic farm tools to a diverse range of hand tools for automotive, industrial, and hardware markets. In addition to its well-known Dominator® pry bars, the company expanded into new materials and product categories through key acquisitions:
- 2008 – Acquired Ken-Tool’s OldForge and Carica brands
- 2009 – Acquired the Baltimore Toolworks product line, strengthening ties with major retailers
- 2016 – Acquired Basque Plastics, expanding into injection-molded parts
- 2019 – Acquired Bestway Tools, further diversifying its offerings
2000s–Present
Manufacturing Excellence and Global Distribution
Commitment to Quality and Industry Leadership (2010s–Present)
Mayhew Steel Products Today
Headquartered in Turners Falls, Massachusetts, Mayhew Steel Products remains a leader in the hand tool industry. The company manufactures a broad range of tools for automotive, industrial, construction, and hardware sectors. Key features of Mayhew today include:
- Product Innovation: Regular introduction of new tools, such as the Dominator® pry bar line, demo tool sets, and pneumatic tool sets.
- Manufacturing Excellence: Full control of production, from raw materials to packaging.
- Global Reach: Worldwide sales through an extensive distributor network.
- Family Ownership: Ongoing stewardship by the Lawless family, now in its fourth generation.
