"smith's tongs, with dimples, what are they used for?"
I've seen thise type of dimples in 2 types of pliers:
1. Hog ring pliers for fencing, upholstery, etc.
2. Ring holding pliers to hold a ring by the outside for polishing or other work on it.
My guess is ...... Hog ring pliers!!!!
"meyers detroit MI pat date may 5 1915 "
I have a battery carrier that looks like that, except it has a double tip, instead of single.
See
https://www.etsy.com/listing/191079596/vintage-tools-battery-carrier-antique?ref=market I have also seen brick tongs that are similar, except instead of a point they terminate in a broad flat plate that puts pressure on the bricks.
So my guess is ...... a carrier for a battery?