The first regular machine shop in Roxbury was started in 1843 by Mr. J. C. Pratt, who in 1847 was succeeded by the firm of Chubbuck and Campbell. Mr. Chubbuck, of this firm, had previously made improvements in engines, and is well known as the constructor of novel and ingenious machinery. The first tubular boiler made in the vicinity of Boston was constructed by Messrs. Chubbuck and Campbell.

In Roxbury, Mass., which is so intimately connected with Boston, not merely by the broad and beautiful avenues over "Boston Neck," but by an identity of interests that it might not improperly be considered a part of the metropolis, Messrs. Chubbuck & Campbell have extensive works for building stationary engines and boilers. The senior partner of the firm established the business in 1846, with a knowledge acquired by service in a subordinate position a longer period than is usual; and when Mr. Campbell united with this the requisite capital, the concern at once started upon its highly successful career. In 1854, finding their facilities too contracted for their business, they erected a new brick building 190 by 37 feet, together with a boiler shop 180 by 35, and a forging shop 35 by 60; and as they own about an acre of ground at this location, coiner of Orange and Ruggles Streets, we understand it is their intention soon to extend their works over the whole lot. At the present time they make about fifty engines per year, of various descriptions, from three to a hundred horse-power, together with boilers, all kinds of heavy mill machinery, rubber machinery, &c. The machinery of their entire works is propelled by an engine of twenty horse-power, of their own construction, and which consumes only about 600 lbs. of dust coal per day. The reputation of Messrs. Chubbuck & Campbell for building first-class engines is unquestionably high; and in the construction of their boilers they adopt peculiar features, which combine a facility in making steam with economy of fuel.

Information Sources

• American Steam Engine Builders: 1800-1900 by Kenneth L. Cope, 2006 page 54
• The Memorial History of Boston James R. Osgood & Co. 1881 pg 89
• Leading Pursuits and Leading Men Edward Young 1856 pg 292-293