Figure 1: The interior of the forging shop as shown in an engraving published in U.S. Magazine , March, 1857. Innovations in forging, developed by Armory Superintendent, E. K. Root, were of paramount importance in propelling Colt to the forefront of metalworking technology.
This building, of brownstone construction, remains part of the complex today. When the West Armory was completed in 1861, forging operations were moved to another wing, and it was used as the woodworking shop and a storage area. The interior, including the distinctive wooden trusses (but absent the flues and forges), appears much as it does in the engraving.
Figure 2: View of the fire arms factory, ca. 1861, showing the original brownstone East Armory destroyed by fire in 1864 and the 1861 West Armory at the rear of the complex. From Henry Barnard, Armsmear, 1866.
Figure 3:
View of "Potsdam" cottages and willow ware factory (no longer extant) on Curcombe Street, ca. 1861, from Henry Barnard, Armsmear, 1866. The larger tenements (no longer extant) fronted on Warwarme Avenue.
Figure 4: View of Colt Fire Arms complex, looking southeast. From Asher & Adams Pictorial Album of American Industry, 1876. The worker housing on Huyshope Avenue is visible on the right.
