1930's Marshall Wells "Zenith" 2.2 Double Bit Cruiser Axe

FORGED BY: Kelly Axe Mfg. Co.
DATE FORGED: 1930's
HEAD WEIGHT: 2 2 (2.5LBS)
HANDLE LENGTH: 28"
AXE TYPE: Double Bit Wisconsin Pattern Cruiser
RATING: Fully restored (3)
 
 
HISTORY
Marshall Wells started in 1893 when former Morely Murphy President, Albert Morley Marshall purchased the failing Chapin-Wells Hardware Company in Duluth Minnesota. Marshall Wells went on to become the country’s largest hardware wholesaler. Located on the world's busiest shipping port, their massive warehouse also had freight train tracks right through the center of the building to move product in and out quickly.
 
At an Independence Day picnic on Minnesota Point, newspaper publisher Dr. Thomas Foster (who produced Duluth's first paper, the Minnesotian) gave a grand oration, during which he called Duluth the “Zenith City of the Unsalted Seas.” Ever since Duluth has been known as the "Zenith" city.
 
Marshall Wells didn't forge their own axes, instead they were outsourced to Kelly Axe & Tool Co.  Axes like the bold "M.W.H.C.o. HAND MADE" and variations of the "Zenith" were very popular and recognized as axes of the highest quality.
 
ABOUT CRUISER AXES
A timber cruiser was usually employed by a lumber company and walked the forest to estimate the potential lumber yield from standing timber on a specific tract of land.  They also marked out routes for accessing the area.  The cruiser axe was smaller and lighter and less taxing to carry on long hikes, but also had double bit's that would last the length of the trek.  Cruiser axe heads typically have a weight of 2 to 2.5 pounds, a width of 8 to 8.5 inches and a handle length of 28 inches.  
 
This axe handle has a custom red stain to match the custom red lettering on the head.  The handle is then finished with a light wipe of poly and the head with a dab of Vintage Axe Wax.
 
This expertly restored, heirloom quality axe instantly turns heads and becomes the go-to conversation piece in your den, office or home.  Included with the purchase of the axe is a frame worthy writeup about it's history.