Antique Dominion Brass Blow Torch - Original #500!

Hand blow torches have been used for over a century. Starting in the mid-1800s, industrial workers were very familiar with these devices. Be it plumbing, glass works or general construction, these torches were a stalwart and reliable companion to these early workers of the Industrial Revolution. However, as for the history of the torches themselves, it doesn't extend much further than the late-19th century. The torch we have here, for example, wasn't made by the 'Dominion' company you see on the label. In fact, there was only a single blow torch manufacturer in all of Canada, when this beauty was constructed - the William Butler Machine Company - and even then, it was only in the 1940s that any Canadian-built torches existed - American and British imports were the primary tools of the trade.
Establishing his business roots in Hamilton, Ontario in 1892, William Butler was described as a skilled machinist and talented manufacturer of machining equipment. His company grew slowly, with a noted 7 employees by 1910. However, things picked up drastically from then on. The business listings for Hamilton in the 1920s noted 'metal stamping' as one of Butler's primary functions. They specialized in auto parts, homewares and construction equipment and beginning in the 1940s, Butler's blow torch production began. Given that they were the only torch manufacturer in the country, several companies licensed them to produce their own torches. From Eaton's Dominion to Coleman and Dominion Canada, a dozen or so companies depended on Butler to supply their torches for resale. They were massively successful and every antique blowtorch you see, from Canada in the mid-20th century, was supplied by Butler.
Torches, just like all construction-related equipment, came in different models, sizes and even fuel types. Most used gasoline, but several were kerosene-based torches. Some were steel-bodied, most others were brass. Some measures one pint, while others measured one quart. When faced with a new purchase, I'm sure it would have been fairly clear to a potential buyer, but looking back through over a century of manufacture leaves one confused, with all the variations and models. The various models were stamped onto the top of the handle, in our case, a very rare '500' adorns the top of the handle. This was the first model of Dominion Canada blow torches produced by Butler and remains a scarce item. IF one were to find a similar model, it is frequently in less-than-ideal condition or if it has been refurbished, the original hardware has been replaced. In our case, this beautiful torch is completely untouched - from the screws and nozzle to the pump and label - it is beautifully original.
Will it work? I highly doubt it... the inside of the pump relied on a carboard or rubber ring to prevent leakage and this almost always deteriorated within a decade of retirement. However, nothing is seized and everything moves freely, so if you wanted, this piece would be easily refurbished. The body is 100% brass but has a steel ring along the bottom (steel was significantly more resilient to the common bangs and knocks a torch was frequently exposed to). The top nozzle and pump are made of steel and, as mentioned, are in remarkable condition.
Measuring 29 cm in height (including handing hook) and about 24 cm in width (including the nozzle and handle - the tank itself is 15 cm, tall by 14 cm wide), it is a handsome piece of industrial history.

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