Wartime
The Craig Bit Company also made a significant contribution to the war effort. In April 1940, the Canadian government formed the Department of Munitions and Supply which commissioned privately owned companies like Craig Bit to manufacture goods for the military.
Since Craig Bit specialized in shaping hardened metals, the company was capable of making a temporary transition to artillery production. From 1943 to 1944, the company produced tungsten carbide caps for armour-piercing artillery shells.
The company culture of Craig Bit was also very patriotic. In November 1943, the company received a 3 star war loan pennant from the Victory Loan Committee. The 3 star pennant was awarded to Canadian companies whose staff invested over 15 percent of their income towards the Fifth Victory Loan.
Ernest Craig gives General Harold Alexander and his wife Margaret a tour of Craig Bit. Harold Alexander was a British Commander of the Allied forces who became Governor General of Canada in 1946.
The Defense of Canada Regulations during World War II meant that newspapers and other publications were subject to restrictions to protect classified information. This is likely why there are few records of General Alexander’s visit to North Bay.
North Bay Museum, Craig Bit Collection.
Craig Bit Expansion
Tungsten carbide products were in high demand which led to cramped conditions for the workers. In 1951, Craig Bit expanded their plant to 18,500 square feet. The office was pulled away from the factory towards Lake Nipissing using a horse-powered turnstile. A large extension to the main building was erected in its place.
In this photo, the main office is hoisted onto rails so that it can be moved using the turnstile.
North Bay Museum, Craig Bit Collection.
The newly relocated office and partially renovated main building in 1951. The back right section of the main building is the original factory.
North Bay Museum, Craig Bit Collection.