Short Biography of Thomas G. Thompson

RICHMOND LOOM WORKS. These works were established by Thomas G. Thompson, in 1862. In June, 1866, (?) Ballard became a partner, and in 1869, Wm. H. Vandeman; (firm, Thompson, Ballard, & Co.) Ballard retired the same year; since which time, the business has been carried on by Thompson & Vandeman. Two different looms are made at these works: the Flying Shuttle Hand Loom, and the Self-Acting Hand Loom. Improvements in these looms were patented in Sept., 1867. More than 1,200 of them have been made and put into operation. One of these looms may serve a number of families. They are used for weaving cassimeres, jeans, satinets, linsey, flannel, wool and rag carpets, &c. This firm has added to their business the manufacture of School Furniture, embracing the various articles necessary for the school-room.

Source: "History of Wayne county, Indiana, from its first settlement to the present time : with numerous biographical and family sketches" ⁴⁰²²