William McNiece, born in County Galway, Ireland, arrived in New York and begun work with Jesse Bakewell, a sawmaker, who carried on business in Elm Street.

1852-1863

William McNiece was employed by Walter Cresson in Conshohocken for eleven years.  These dates are approximate and calculation is based on available information.

McNiece received his first patent for Combined Saw, Square and Bevel (Patent No 23,531) and assigned this patent to Walter Cresson.

1863-1866

William McNiece and Charles H. Lame begun working together under the name of “Lame & McNiece” and the term of this partnership was planned for 1 year.

1867

From currently available information it appears as the partnership with Charles H. Lame was dissolved and McNiece continued work under his own name – William McNiece, Saw Manufacturer.  He continued to do business at the same location - 407 Cherry Str.

"American Enterprise: Burley's US Centennial Gazetteer and Guide", a centennial review of the state of the Union published an advertisement for William McNiece - Excelsior Saw Works located at 515  Cherry Street.

1887

William McNiece & Son begun operation sometimes around 1887.  The name of the company was changed to William McNiece & Son - Excelsior Saw Works.  We have a saw that was made by this transformed organization and details about it are available here.

William McNiece & Son Saw Manufacturers is listed in the Third Industrial Directory of Pennsylvania.  The factory is located at 515 Cherry Street.  The workforce consisted of 10 employees.