 He constructed various other devices about this time, displaying remarkable mechanical ability as well as inventiveness.He made a miniature steam engine and fire engine, and constructed a violin.At the age of 16, he removed to Meriden, CT, and engaged with his brother in the manufacture of tinware; but this gave him no opportunity to develop his mechanical tastes, and he soon after became connected with the American Machine Works, at Springfield, Massachusetts, where he remained until he was of age.