The following link will nail down the answer ...
http://reynoldstechnology.biz/
On the site, check out the "about us/did you know?" drop down. In addition to a crisp timeline you will find a facsimile of the original tubing patent (No 24,931) dating to A.D. 1897 and the following:
Reynolds started out as the "The Patent Butted Tube Company Ltd." in 1898, based in Birmingham, England, based on a patent 24931 filed by AM Reynolds and JT Hewitt on 27th October 1897. That butting process, which reduced weight while maintaining strength in key areas, is still used by a number of companies worldwide today.
Tim Parker Vienna, VA Fog/Mist 63F 90% Humidity -----Original Message----- From: Michael Howard [mailto:95rivieramike@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 27, 2009 11:35 PM To: Bob Freitas Cc: CLASSIC RENDEZVOUS Subject: Re: [CR] Reynolds origins
I may be crazy but I believe I remember a story that Reynolds actually started some time around the turn of the century. One of their first products was nails if memory serves me correctly. Does this ring a bell with anyone else?
Mike Howard Santa Fe Springs CA
On Wed, May 27, 2009 at 7:52 PM, Bob Freitas <freitas1@pacbell.net> wrote:
> Didnt Reynolds originate as an Aircraft Tubing? I think it
> dates to fabric covered Wings etc which has got to be before 1930.
> When we were selling Reynolds in the 70s I remember they said it was
> still being used in the frames of airplane seats
>
> Jeeze, why do I still remember this stuff when I cant remember
> where I put my car keys 2 hours ago?
> BOB FREITAS
> breezy MILL VALLEY, CA USA