Name/Title
machine, sewingEntry/Object ID
2026.020.001Description
Machine, sewing. Iron treadle sewing machine, Singer & Co. brand "Letter A" Model, c. 1860. Black iron sewing machine on iron stand with hand painted yellow and orange filigree detailing on arm, base, and treadle belt cover.Context
In 1867, Westminster merchant tailor Nathan Gorsuch advertised that he had “obtained the agency” to sell Singer sewing machines for $50 each, praising them as superior to all others in use.
The rare “Letter A” model on display was hand-painted, and still features its original decorative finish. Manufactured in Manhattan in the 1860s for household use, this is the same model of sewing machine that stood in Gorsuch’s shop, enticing customers to step inside and purchase the latest sewing technology.Acquisition
Accession
2026.020Acquisition Method
PurchaseExhibition
Main Street at Work: Merchants and Medicine in Carroll County
