Charles Babbitt of Taunton, Massachusetts.

Charles Babbitt of Taunton, Massachusetts. A polymath of his time, he was a clockmaker, watchmaker, silversmith, jeweler, merchant, inventor, skillful mechanic, soldier, investor, and humanitarian, showcasing a remarkable range of skills and interests.

In The Babbitt Family History, 1643-1900 by William Bradford Browne, Charles Babiit is described as a "genius." It appears he had a natural ability to use tools. He was scientific and skillful with metals. Charles Babbitt was born in Taunton, Massachusetts, on December 3, 1786, and died there on August 13, 1854. His parents were Ziba Babbitt and Bathsheba (Luscombe) Babbitt. Charles married Abigail White (b. 2/14/1784, d. 10/25/1846) on January 20, 1807, in Taunton. They had five children, three husky sons and two daughters. His diverse career saw him as a clockmaker, watchmaker, silversmith, jeweler, merchant, a dealer in fine tools and hardware, and inventor at various points between 1807 and 1850. He was among the first to make percussion caps for firearms that eventually supplanted flint locks. He designed and built a machine that produced copper shells. He invented a cast steel hone for putting a fine edge on razors. He pulled teeth, fitted glasses, and adjusted ear trumpets. His shop was located on Main Street and was in direct competition with Abner Pitts of the same town. 

Charles Babbitt's shop was a hub of innovation. In 1810, he was well established as a gold and silversmith and was employing apprentices. In 1824, he partnered with Sturgis Davis as Davis & Babbitt, and in 1828 through 1830 the name was changed to Davis, Babbitt & Co. Charles died on August 13, 1854, in his hometown, at the age of 67, and was buried in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Taunton, Bristol, Massachusetts, United States. 

We have owned a tall clock and a wall clock signed by this Maker.