Company History

Davenport Machine has been committed to innovation and excellence since its foundation 130 years ago.

At Davenport Machine, our roots stretch back to 1890, marking over a century of leading-edge solutions and customer-focused innovation. Founded on Mr. Davenport’s principle of putting the customer first, our commitment shines through in every machine we craft. 

Designed for optimal efficiency, our multi-spindle machines are not only fast and compact but also simple to operate, maximizing your investment with every use. With more than 1,000 attachments and 3,000 certified ISO replacement parts, Davenport allows you to tailor your operations to meet exact needs.

Dive into our storied past and discover how we’ve stayed at the forefront of the industry—check out the timeline below to see our journey through the years.

1894

William Simeon Davenport establishes the Davenport Machine Tool Company in New Bedford, Mass. The company initially produced clock pinion turning machines and progressed into manufacturing intricate multiple-spindle automatic bar machines.
1902

1902

Mr. Davenport’s Model B Automatic Screw Machine design is patented. In Mr. Davenport’s words, “The development of a machine is a growth process. My first machine had about 350 parts. Improvements and simplification added the other 1,500.”
1894

1919

Davenport Machine begins playing a key role in the US military. This year also marked Davenport’s move to Rochester, NY. Strategically placed along the Erie Canal, Rochester was the perfect geographical midpoint to serve the company's growing consumer base - the expanding automotive business in Detroit, and the watchmaking industry in New England.

1925

Earl Brinkman, a young mechanic, begins working at Davenport. Brinkman’s many innovations, some patented, drove the company to new heights.
1939

1939

Davenport is granted AAA priority during World War II, operating 24 hours a day to produce much-needed materials to support the war effort.
1966

1966

Earl Brinkman becomes president of Davenport. He was known throughout the screw machine industry as “Mr. Davenport” as his name became synonymous with the company and the machine.
1979

1979

Earl Brinkman retires, leaving the company to eventually be led by his son, Bob Brinkman.
1996

1996

Davenport launched the Model B Servo. Using state-of-the-art servo technology, the machine offered better accuracy, easier set up and more flexible operation. The Servo was the first step toward the Davenport machines seen today.
2003

2003

Bob Brinkman takes over Davenport Machine, now part of Brinkman International Group, Inc. The company continues to focus on the needs of the precision machined parts industry.

2017

Davenport’s Exploration & Advancement group develops the Hybrid Concept Machine. A stand-alone offering; meshing the latest CNC technology with legendary Davenport speed and productivity.

2021

The Hybrid Machine receives significant enhancements, making it look more like the machine seen today! Visit our Hybrid Machine page to learn more.

Present

Since our inception, Davenport’s commitment to innovation has been at the forefront. With technological advancements like the Hybrid Machine and an unparalleled commitment to our customers, Davenport strives for another century of excellence.

Davenport innovation will continue to make history for another 130 years. To learn more, watch our video.