Page 11 - Gleason 160

The Gleason Works Is Born

In 1903, William Gleason dis-
Shaping the Panama Canal solves both the Genesee Foundry
Company and the Gleason Tool
Beginning in 1903, Gleason products Company and incorporates The
are employed to help shape the Gleason Works as a New York
Panama Canal. The 20-foot Gleason State Corporation.
spur and internal gear planer is used
to cut the gears inside the canal’s The original Gleason plant was
locks and doors. located in Brown’s Race, high on
the banks of the Genesee River.
Workers were summoned to their
jobs by a bell located at the nearby
Rochester Cotton Mill Co. When
the mill burns down years later,
James E. Gleason purchases the
bell, cast in 1847, and brings it to
the University Avenue facility.

Driving Force

for Growth

James E. and Andrew C. Gleason Join the Company

In 1892, James E. Gleason and his brother Andrew C. Gleason
join their sister Kate as employees of the firm at Brown’s Race.

James’ outstanding ability and contributions in the design of
improved types of bevel gear machines and manufacturing
techniques, as well as building industrial relations are in large
part responsible for the preeminent position enjoyed by the
firm. In 1922, he becomes President of The Gleason Works.
His brother Andrew’s primary interest is in gear design and
the manufacturing side of the business. He serves as Vice
President until his retirement in 1934.

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