Theodore Alteneder
fl. 1850 - 1910s
Theodore Alteneder started producing drawing instruments in 1850. According to one website, "he patented an improved joint design in 1850 and in 1871 he was granted a second patent for further improvements "which made (the joint) dust-proof and free from wear and friction". Alteneder was awarded a medal for his designs in the Centennial Exhibitions of 1876 and a silver medal was received from the Franklin Institute in 1885. Theodore Alteneder was one of few American manufacturers of drawing instruments. He continued manufacturing as late as 1912."
For the quote, see "THEODORE ALTENEDER'S AMERICAN-PATTERN DRAWING INSTRUMENTS by Dale Beeks," The Virtual Museum of Surveying, http://www.surveyhistory.org/instrument_makers_theodore_alteneder.htm (accessed 08/18/2014) [unvetted]
For some examples of later instruments, made by Theodore Alteneder & Sons, which succeeded their father, see "Alteneder Model 500 “Draftsman's and Artist's Pencil," Leadholder - the Drafting Pencil Museum, http://www.leadholder.com/lh-draft-alteneder.html (accessed 08/18/2014) [unvetted]