Name/Title
Machine, SewingEntry/Object ID
2008.015.014Description
Treadle sewing machine in original case with attachments, needles, bobbins etc. Originally owned by Heald family and left in attic of house when sold to Lees.. It is a Minnesota Sewing Machine Company Model A manufactured by the Goodrich Sewing Machine Company of Chicago. Sears & Roebuck selected it as one of their "house" brand sewing machines in the 1890s. Sewing machine case, oak, has 7 drawers and sits on a cast iron frame which houses the treadle which turns a wheel which via a leather belt powers the machine. When not in use the machine hinges down into the center of the case, When in use, it sits on the chest and the top hinges to the side making a work surface.
The metal machine is decorated with very nice gilded and painted art deco designs. The drawers have curved fronts, fancy moldings and fancy hardware. Contents of drawers: Warranty from Sears Roebuck dated 7/25/1903, Instruction book, 2 broken pair eyeglasses, lump of beeswax, metal box with attachments, coin purse, extra belts for the wheel, box of beads, shoebutton hook, folder of pins, needles, needle cases, bobbins, scraps, 1 glove, 2 bolts with fancy gilded heads, screwdriver, envelopes for the Christian Herald Children's Home, mouse turds and trash.
The Sears & Roebuck Company selected the Minnesota Sewing Machine Company for one of its "house" brands in the 1890s.
