Resources
Websites
DATAMP (Directory of American Tool And Machinery Patents) An exceptional source for tool-related patent information.
OldToolHeaven.com Randy Roeder’s website with information on Millers Falls, Goodell-Pratt, and related manufacturers.
Stanley Logo Dating Page Bob Kaune’s excellent reference guide to Stanley blade logos
Metallic Router Plane Type Study A collaborative work of Jay Sutherland and Lars Larson along with extensive research from Roger K. Smith, these pages contain information on various types and models of router planes. Includes detailed type studies of the Stanley #71 and #71 1/2 planes. Presented to you in its original 1995 vintage HTML.
Reference Books
Wooden Planes
Tom Elliot: A Guide to the Makers of American Wooden Planes Fifth Edition ISBN-10: 1931626383. The definitive reference book on American wooden planes and planemakers.
Jane Rees: Goodman's British Planemakers 4th Edition ISBN-10 1931626448 . The definitive guide to British planes and planemakers.
John Whelan The Wooden Plane ISBN-10: 1879335328 An extensive book on the history and function of wooden planes of all sorts. The appendices include the specialized molding planes used by a number of specialized trades. An essential book for anyone interested in wooden planes.
Kenneth D. Roberts: Wooden Planes in Nineteenth Century America, Vol. 1 ISBN-10 0913602531 I consider it an essential reference book on the history of planemaking in America. The 2nd addition contains additional information added after the first edition was published. There was an addendum published for the first edition.
Kenneth D. Roberts: Wooden Planes in Nineteenth Century America, Vol. 2 ISBN-10 0913602531 This book isn't an update of Vol. 1, it contains all new information. I consider it essential because it details the tools and processes used by the H. Chapin company and Solon Rust to make planes. The section on planemaking alone is worth the cost.