12/25/2023
When I came across thus huge mixer in what used to be a large bakery, I noticed the name American Machine and Foundry Co. and found the company was founded in 1900 by Rufus L. Patterson Jr., inventor of the first automated cigarette manufacturing machine. Originally incorporated in New Jersey but operating in Brooklyn, New York City, New York, the company began by manufacturing cigarette, baking, and stitching machines.
However, after World War II, they manufactured automated bowling equipment, and bowling centers became profitable business ventures. Anyone remember AMF lanes and bowling balls?
Until the mid-1980s, AMF's range of consumer goods included powered model airplanes, snow skis, lawn and garden equipment, Ben Hogan golf clubs, Voit inflatable balls, exercycles and exercise equipment, Hatteras Yachts, Alcort Sailboats, Nimble bicycles, motorized bicycles, mopeds, and scuba gear. For a time, AMF owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
