Vintage E.C. Atkins Mitre Saw

An impressive vintage E. C. Atkins & Co. Silver Steel mitre saw, manufactured in Indianapolis and originally intended for use with the Marsh Mitre & Picture Frame Machine. Featuring a 26-inch blade, rigid steel back, original wooden handle, and brass Atkins medallion, this substantial saw retains its historical character, including a partially legible factory blade etching.

About This Tool

This vintage E. C. Atkins & Co. backsaw is a substantial example of American woodworking tool manufacturing. Made in Indianapolis, Indiana, the saw features a long steel blade reinforced by a rigid metal spine, a traditional wooden handle, and brass hardware. The spine is stamped:

• E. C. ATKINS & CO. SILVER STEEL INDPLS USA

The blade also retains remnants of its original factory etching, identifying it as manufactured expressly for The Marsh Mitre & Picture Frame Machine. This specialized application makes the saw particularly interesting to collectors of antique woodworking equipment, picture-framing tools, and early American saws.

Tool Details

• Manufacturer: E. C. Atkins & Co.
• Origin: Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
• Type: Mitre saw / steel-backed saw
• Blade Length: Approximately 26 inches
• Construction: Steel blade with reinforced back
• Handle: Original shaped wooden handle
• Hardware: Brass fasteners and Atkins maker’s medallion
• Blade Marking: Silver Steel
• Original Application: The Marsh Mitre & Picture Frame Machine
• Estimated Era: Early 20th century (not definitively dated)
• Inventory ID: SC-S-26-0256

Condition

This saw retains considerable original character.

• The blade displays scattered oxidation, dark staining, and areas of pitting consistent with age and use.
• The original blade etching is heavily faded but remains partially legible.
• The steel spine retains a clear manufacturer’s stamp.
• The wooden handle shows age-related wear, scratches, and finish variations.
• The original brass hardware and Atkins medallion remain present.
• The saw teeth are intact, with no obvious major missing sections visible in the photographs.

The saw has not been represented as professionally sharpened or tested for precision cutting. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

Preservation

This saw has been preserved with an emphasis on retaining its original appearance, markings, and patina. The faded factory etching is a particularly important historical feature. Rather than aggressively polishing the blade and potentially removing the remaining markings, the aged surface has been retained. The result is an authentic vintage woodworking tool rather than a refinished reproduction.

Ideal For

• Antique hand saw collectors
• Traditional woodworking enthusiasts
• Picture-framing tool collectors
• Historic woodworking shop displays
• Vintage American tool collections
• Restoration projects
• Workshop and woodworking-themed décor

Although originally manufactured for a specialized mitre machine, the saw may also appeal to collectors interested in historical cutting tools and early woodworking technology.