Dormer Tools' 'Dovecote' trademark anniversary this month

Dormer's famous 'Dovecote' trademark was created in June 1917 and, in subsequent decades, became the recognisable symbol of quality and craftsmanship associated with the company's products. This catalyst for the trademark was a period of rapid early growth after formation in 1913 as the Sheffield Twist Drill Co. The Dovecote evolved after a Dutch agent casually suggested a windmill with a Dormer window, making a play on the name of the then joint-managing director Mr Harry A. Dormer. The Dormer name itself was originally introduced as a brand for the company's drilling products. Trademarked in 1924, it eventually replaced the original company name, as overseas expansion gathered pace. John O'Donoghue, general manager at Dormer Tools, explains: "The Dovecote trademark symbolised a spirit of innovation, which has been synonymous with Dormer since our inception. "The company's early foresight to specialise in cutting tool manufacture, coupled with a singular vision for developing quality products, fuelled rapid growth. "It has been this passion and drive for excellence that has enabled Dormer to remain at the forefront of the global cutting tool industry for the last one hundred years. "While the trademark is no longer used, the company's belief in continuing to produce innovative products, delivering quality service and remaining the industry's trusted partner, continues to this day." As part of the celebrations, Dormer has provided a number of artefacts to the 'Rustless' exhibition at Sheffield's Kelham Island industrial museum, which celebrates 100 years since the discovery of stainless steel by Harry Brearley.