Character
Van Camp Hardware & Iron Co., Indianapolis — a hardware wholesaler operating at the turn of the twentieth century, selling tools under its own trade name. The manufacturer of Van Camp planes has not been conclusively identified — likely Stanley, Union or Sargent depending on available production capacity.
Van Camp distributor branding reflects the network of regional hardware wholesalers that supplied the market before national consolidation of the tool industry.
Construction
Bailey-pattern cast iron body in No. 2 proportions. Actual manufacturer attribution depends on frog shape, lateral adjuster and logo details. The "Nice Shape" description in the acquisition suggests good overall condition without significant loss of parts.
Dating
Hardware distributor brands of this period date approximately 1895–1920 by frog style and casting profile. Precise attribution requires physical examination and comparison against known manufacturer records.
Notes
This page documents the Van Camp No. 2 as held in the collection. Manufacturer and variant attribution await physical verification.