Our History

1890: Andrew and Frank Swanstrom open a blacksmith shop and wagon works in Duluth, MN.

1908: Diamond Calk is founded in Duluth, MN. The company goes on to invent and patent special horseshoes and calks to be used on horses when transporting lumber from the deep woods of Northern MN. Eventually, the company will change its name to Diamond Calk Horseshoe Company.

1920: Diamond becomes the second American company to manufacture adjustable pliers.

1943: Diamond receives the esteemed Army-Navy “E” Award for quality and delivery performance during WWII.

1958: The company name is changed to Diamond Tool & Horseshoe Co. The company will go on to be the largest employers in Duluth, MN for many years to come.

1969: Diamond Tool receives the GSA Vendor Certification Award.

1983: Jack Swanstrom, the former president of Diamond Tool, founds Swanstrom Tools USA  after Diamond Tool was purchased by an outside party. All of Diamond’s manufacturing operations are closed in Duluth, but many key individuals with years of experience were excited to join Jack on his new endeavor.

1987: Swanstrom Ergonomic Super Tools are introduced. This line of tools will prove to be the backbone of the Swanstrom Tools legacy.

2002: Jack’s son, John, takes over as president of Swanstrom Tools when Jack passes away unexpectedly. His forward-thinking, unending drive propels the company into the new century.

2009: Swanstrom Tools purchases American Ed-Co, an industry leader in the manufacturing of steel safety lockouts.

2011: Swanstrom Tools revolutionizes the industry with the introduction of the M-Series line of tools

2016: Swanstrom Tools partners with Jokari and now offers Jokari’s full line of wire strippers. This further expands Swanstrom Tools offerings in the industrial market.