As the United States entered the 20^th century, the demand for special-purpose tool steels increased rapidly. Although the crucible process ensured high quality, its output was relatively low compared to other steelmaking methods of the day. To meet increased demand, 13 steelmaking firms using the crucible method-including Sanderson Brothers-merged in 1900 to form the Crucible Steel Company of America. By joining forces, these companies could more efficiently use their skilled craftsmen and specialized facilities to produce a wider range of high-quality products.

 

C.H. Halcomb Jr. became the first president and general manager of the new corporation, but he resigned two years later and established his own Halcomb Steel mill in Geddes. In 1911, Crucible acquired Halcomb Steel and combined it with a new Sanderson plant, which was erected adjacent to the Halcomb plant. The Sanderson-Halcomb Works became today’s Crucible Industries, the entrance of which still bears the inscription Halcomb Steel Company in stone.