MANILLA CARDS

[Roundsworth]

B.G.I. aka Bridgeport Gun Implement, was a subsidiary of Union Metallic Cartridge. They catered to the shooting sportsman with top quality reloading and cleaning gear. They also sold golf clubs and bicycle accessories. I have been on a quest to acquire BGI tools and have been successful via the internet. I have unused BGI loading kits and cleaning gear in their original boxes. Someday I need to figure out a way to display all the items. Ideal shotshell tools are out there, but do not seem to be as common as B.G.I. or U.H. (Union Hardware) marked tools. 'Eureka' is a tradename on some tools sold by U.H. and B.G.I., but I don't know if U.H. acquired B.G.I. or vice versa. While it has become an obsession, it is still very rewarding! Cheers.

[Autumn Daze]

Mark, The old Bridgeport Gun Implement building is about a mile from my house. It is still standing and is on the corner of Helen St. and Barnum Ave. in BPT,CT

They made great tool's for the sportsman of the day and I have a nice sampling of their wares also.

Just thought you might be interested to know....

[Roundsworth]

I have a BGI catalog from the turn of the century and thought it would be neat to acquire all the items, excluding golf clubs! The last item I bought was a mint Budd-Petmecky(sp?) bore cleaner for the 12 gauge. The main body of the tool is actually a UMC brass case modified to work with the cleaner. The little box was intact, too! I cannot afford lots o' Parkers, but I can afford accoutrements. Dave, is the building occupied? Cheers!

[Autumn Daze]

Mark, I believe the building is in use. Also it is right next door to the Remington Arms plant. Unfortunately the Remington plant is abandoned and has undergone a series of disasterous fires the last few years and is now in the process of being torn down as it poses a serious hazard. From what I read in the local papers they are going to save the fabulous shot tower that has been a symbol around here for quite some time.

Marcelus Hartly was the owner of the BPT Gun Implement Co. and also was a past president or director for Remington so the close vicinity of the two busineses is no coincidence.

In a few conversations I have had with Mr. Ken Waite one of the PGCA past BOD members and a retired Remington employee he told me that Marcelus was a relative of his. Small world.....