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The History of Hendey Machine Co.
Founded in 1870 in Torrington, Connecticut, the Hendey Machine Company was established by brothers Henry J. Hendey and Arthur Hendey—skilled engineers and toolmakers with a vision for precision manufacturing. Originally operating under the name Hendey Brothers, their company quickly became a cornerstone of American industrial innovation.
Legacy of Engineering Excellence
The company began by crafting custom wood-working lathes, pin machines, and wire-making equipment, but quickly evolved into a leader in the development of precision engine lathes, planers, and shapers. By the 1890s, Hendey had begun standardizing its product lines, most notably launching its revolutionary high-speed engine lathe—a tool that would become an industry benchmark.
A turning point came in 1892, when Hendey acquired the W.P. Norton gearbox patent, introducing one of the first quick-change gear mechanisms for screw-cutting lathes. This advancement eliminated the need for time-consuming disassembly and solidified Hendey’s reputation for innovation and efficiency.
Industrial Expansion
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Hendey factory complex expanded across Torrington, housing iron foundries, assembly lines, and a powerhouse. The company’s reach extended beyond the U.S., with international exports growing alongside domestic demand. During World War I and World War II, Hendey supplied lathes to military contractors, scaling its workforce to over 1,000 employees at its peak.
Transition and Legacy
After navigating the Great Depression and several decades of success, the Hendey Machine Co. was eventually sold in 1952. Its lathe and shaper designs were acquired by Barber-Colman Co., while the original factory complex shifted to other industrial uses. Today, remnants of the factory remain in Torrington—some restored and preserved—as a testament to Hendey’s impact on American manufacturing history.
Modern Water Meter Operations & Family Legacy
After nearly a century of industrial heritage through Hendey Machine Co., the Hendey family expanded into water metering in California during the mid‑20th century. Under names such as Performance Meter and Hendey Meter, the business has focused on designing, manufacturing, and distributing high‑quality water meters, hydrant accessories, and related parts—all driven by innovation and family leadership.
Since 1964, Performance Meter (Banning, CA) has served water agencies, contractors, and municipal clients with locally produced meters. Under the stewardship of Art Hendey (Arthur A. Hendey), the company has continued developing new patents and products including fire‑service water meters, mounting brackets, and break-away locks—solutions tailored for real field usage and regulatory requirements.
Arthur A. Hendey’s patented designs reflect a commitment to both function and durability. Among these are a large-volume fire service meter with dual strainers, a universal bracket for meter‑to‑data‑logger mounting, and anti‑tamper locking mechanisms that protect meter operations without sacrificing ease of use.
Today, Hendey & Sons LLC. carries forward this legacy: combining the engineering innovation and precision tools of the past with modern smart‑meter technology, durable accessories, and customer-focused service. The same dedication to accuracy, reliability, and innovation that began with Hendey Machine Co. lives on in every product you see today.