What did John say ... was he able to provide any new information? Prior to about 1936, HMC generally manufactured their own hardware. In many cases, the underside of a bronze fitting would be stamped with "HMC" and the casting pattern number. The Merriman hardware would probably be replacements if the boat was built by HMC. I don't know if the lead was stamped, but I wouldn't be surprised.
-Steve