SERVING YOUR MACHINE TOOL NEEDS
FOR OVER 70 YEARS

OUR HISTORY

 

 

In 1950, Edwin (Ted) S. Drowne Jr., a graduate of Wentworth Institute, founded Drowne Machinery Associates. The firm was created to represent machine tool builders Wade Lathe Co. and the Arter Grinder Co. Both of these organizations had a need to match their quality products with reliable customer service.  Through his knowledge and understanding of the industry, Ted was able to offer clients exceptional support. Drowne Machinery Associates thrived for many years working out of offices in Weston, MA and Tuftonboro, NH.

 

In 1953, Ted met Mr. Steffen, Founder of Northfield Precision Instrument Co., Island Park, NY. They met by chance in the lobby of Heald Grinding Machine Co., Worcester, MA. Mr. Steffen was promoting his new Precision Air Chuck, and Ted was impressed with the product. Ted formed a partnership with Northfield that very day, and Drowne Machinery Associates has been representing the Northfield products for over 60 years.

 

In 1985, Ted’s son Steve joined the company. After graduating from Northeastern University, Steve worked for GE and then started his own company which brought several years of specialty sales experience to Drowne Machinery Associates. Together, they created a strong customer-oriented company.

 

In 2011, Steve’s son, Andrew, a graduate of University of Vermont, joined the family-run business. The father and son team enjoy delivering quality products to their customers, and have continued to practice the values that were most important to Ted.