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Early Sewing Machine Sales Archive
W.G.
Wilson "Paw Foot"-type
Sewing Machine There
are many variations of the antique sewing machines that are collectively
referred to as "Paw Foot" designs. The Biddeford, Maine
company known as Shaw & Clark was one of the most prolific
manufacturers of paw foot machines, producing over half a dozen
different variations during the 1860's. Another lesser known
manufacturer of this style of sewing machine was the Midwestern company
referred to as W.G. Wilson, who produced machines under Ketchum's April
28, 1863 patent. This is an example of one of their machines, and
it is so marked with the patent info on the stitch plate. This
early chain-stitch sewing machine is spectacular in its design and its
colorful embellishment. It retains much of its original brightly
colored floral paint and gold pinstriping. Note the details of the
fire hydrant style body topped with an elegant finial, the ornate
scalloped-edge base, and the well-defined feet. This machine
utilized the New England style "walking" presser foot to move
the fabric along instead of the more typical feeddog mechanism, and an
unusual horizontal spool pin for the thread. Oftentimes these
machines are found in much lesser condition, so if you have been waiting
for one the you'll be proud to display be sure to take a close look at
this great
example! Very Good
.... ..............$950.00
SOLD
Early Paw Foot Style Sewing Machine This
style of "paw foot" sewing machine is known by several different names and comes
in a number of different variations. They are occasionally found marked "Ketchum's Patent", which would cover the stitch mechanism, and they can also be
found marked "Shaw & Clark" or "Wilson", just two of the many competitors in the
early sewing machine market. Machines of this style date from the mid
1860's and were still being produced into the late 1870's before more
standardized and advanced designs pushed them from the market. Many of
these machines are found with no maker or patent information on them, and this
example is one of the unmarked ones. They are often described by
the shape of the pillar or column, and this one would be known as a fire
hydrant model. Other typically seen styles are the fluted column
model, the skinny column,
the open or closed square column, and others. The operation and design of
all are pretty much the same. This type of machine forms a single
thread chain stitch utilizing no bobbin or second thread to form a lockstitch. Their
attractive designs make them highly sought after, but they are typically found in horrible condition
with little remaining paint. This example on the other hand is quite nice with approximately 80%-90% of the
original paint and decoration remaining.
Excellent
........ $595.00
SOLD
Shaw
& Clark Closed Pillar Sewing Machine from Biddeford, Maine
Very Good..............$1650.00 SOLD
Paw Foot Cast Iron Sewing Machine
by Shaw & Clark
This style of sewing machine, circa
1860-70, is generally attributed to the Shaw & Clark Co. of Biddeford, Maine or
assorted other New England manufacturers. There are many interesting variations
in the design of these machines that exist, but all utilize a revolving hook
chain-stitch mechanism and a walking presser foot. This example features a
ribbed fire hydrant style body topped with an acorn-shaped finial. There is
still a good amount of original black paint and colorful floral / gold scroll
decoration remaining, although the base does show some minor areas of surface
rust. The spool holder on this example is missing, but still a good one to add
to the collection.
Good+ ..... $795.00 SOLD
Foley & Williams
"Practical" Round Wooden Sewing Machine This is a rare variation of the more commonly seen Triumph Sewing Machine that was made by the same manufacturer Foley & Williams back near the turn of the century. That is not, by any means, to say that the Triumph is a common machine, but over the years, if we have seen 50 or owned a handful of those, this is only the second one of the Practical we have ever had the opportunity to buy or offer for sale. If you are not familiar with the design, the entire body and base are made of wood, and this is typically referred to as the doughnut machine. There is a metal frame on the backside to reinforce this. The missing paint and finish on the base is simply honest wear from where this machine was clamped to the table during use. At different periods, machines like this were marketed as either toys for the child to learn and practice on, or they were also marketed as travel machines for use in the summer home or on trips to do simple mending. This machine is in very nice condition noting the base . The removable piece of the circle, on the left, and pin to hold it, are present and original. A difficult to find machine! Very Good ................$1495.00 SOLD
Linnea Sewing Machine
This super well-made cast iron sewing
machine is not a toy but a small chain-stitch machine that was manufactured by
Bergbom & Roberg of Chicago, Illinois. It operates effortlessly and efficiently
with a unique crankshaft-like internal mechanism. The little wooden storage
drawer of this hard-to-find sewing machine is a nicely-crafted remake. There
is lots of original gold decoration remaining and the black finish is super.
These machines are rarely offered for sale, and this one is a real beauty!
Good+
........$750.00 SOLD
Rare
1860's Patent Williams & Orvis
Treadle Sewing Machine Williams
& Orvis was a Boston-based company that manufactured sewing machines
for just a few short years from 1858 to the mid 1860's, according to the
Smithsonian book on antique sewing machines by Grace Rogers
Cooper. Examples of this machine are few and far between and this
example is the first one we have ever owned or offered. This
version is known as the second model, and it features a wonderful
figural head design that resembles a dolphin or other such graceful
creature. The elegant form is especially striking because of it's
petite size. This treadle machine is unusual in that it is
friction-driven, utilizing a large flywheel that is mounted
underneath. Rather than being attached to the machine with a belt,
the flywheel presses against a rubber ring that is fastened directly to
the machine's drive-wheel. This example still retains much of the
gilt decoration that is so often worn off of these early machines.
And if you look closely you can still make out the manufacturer's name
and location in the gold lettering that appears at the base of the
arm. The stitchplate is clearly marked "Patent Applied
For". The finish is no doubt in such nice condition due to
the fact that the wooden hood or cover has remained intact with the
machine. The decorative cast iron treadle stand is in
excellent condition as well, with no cracks or breaks in the
casting. The pin that attaches the rod to the treadle plate has
been replaced with a nail which could easily be changed out if
wanted. This is a hard-to-find early patented sewing machine in
outstanding condition. Excellent ..............$2495.00
SOLD
1858
Patent New England Style Sewing Machine
These
antique sewing machines are commonly referred to as New England-styles, and were
actually made by many different manufacturers both here in the US, Canada
and in England, where they were known as the Weir. These machines
feature an unusual "walking" presser foot to move the fabric
along from above, rather than the more typical underneath feed-dog
mechanism. This particular example has been in our collection for
some time, as we were intrigued by the design and decoration.
Generally they are done in floral designs, and this one is also on the
base, but the end plate has what appears to be a tomato, grapes, and
cherries. The condition of the paint is super. So many of
these machines are worn almost completely bare, but not this
example. It is one of the nicest we have seen!
Excellent...............$395.00
SOLD
Rare
"Foliage" Figural Sewing Machine This
rare and unusual antique sewing machine was manufactured by D. W. Clark of
Bridgeport, CT. It was patented in 1858 and produced for just a few short
years, which explains why so very few of them are ever seen except in long-time
collections. (Several years ago one came up for sale at a German auction
house and brought just over $7K.) Although often referred to as being cast
brass it is actually made of a material known as gunmetal, a harder and stronger
brass-type alloy. With its diminutive size---it measures only about
6" across and 4" high---and its appealing foliage-like casting design,
it is undoubtedly one of the most graphic and beautifully designed of all
antique sewing machines ever produced, large or small. This example is in
excellent condition and completely original. The patent information is
clearly stamped on the underside. An early and historically significant
American patented sewing machine! Excellent ..............$4595.00
SOLD
Early
Patented Hancock Integral-Clamp Antique Sewing Machine
The
first sewing machines had barely been invented when Henry J. Hancock received
his 1867 patent for this unusual chain stitch machine. The design of this
early sewing machine, with its very delicate open-frame "skeleton"
body and integral clamp, is incredibly appealing. Examples of this
unusual sewing machine are extremely scarce. Hancocks were only produced
for 10 or so years which explains why they are seldom found and rarely offered
for sale. For those antique sewing machine collectors who seek out
examples of the very earliest patents, this machine is always at the top of
their "want list". This particular example came straight out of
a Midwestern estate. The stitchplate is clearly marked with the 1867
patent date as well as 1868 and 1869 patent improvement dates. There are
no casting flaws or cracks in the delicate casting, and although there is
considerable paint loss, the surface exhibits a dark rich patina that one would
expect from a 130-year-old antique. There is no pitting or rust, and all
and all it looks very good. Likewise the brass parts have not been
polished and retain a deep mellow tone. As is generally the case in
machines of this age, the needle is missing, but other than that the sewing
machine is complete. The seam guide has been adapted from a different
newer sewing machine to resemble the
original.
Good+..............$1295.00
SOLD
Early
Patented Lamb Knitter
I do believe
you could whip out a sweater or pair of mittens just as quick as you can turn the crank on this
antique knitting machine, assuming you could figure it out! Marked
on a brass medallion on the end is "The Lamb Knitting Machine Manf'g Co.
Rochester, NY" as well as the very early patent dates of Oct. 10, 1865 and
Sept. 15, 1868. It is also marked with the number 1815, which I assume is the serial
number. This antique knitting device is very graphic and very mechanical,
and there are several extras to go with it. Just in case you need
help figuring out how it works the original 30-page instruction booklet is
included. It is in the condition you would expect for a booklet that is
over 100 years old---the pages are very readable, although they are rather
brittle with tears here and there, and the cover as well as some of the other
pages are loose. But it
contains a wealth of information on setting up the machine, and making such
wardrobe necessities as leggins, a breakfast cape, wristlets, undershirts,
nubias, tidies, stockings, sweaters, mittens and gloves. Also
included is a 24-page 1884 catalog and price list of assorted models of Lamb
Knitting Machines and accessories. The amazing thing is that this machine cost
well over $100 back then at the same time that Sears Roebuck was selling
treadle sewing machines for just $15 or so. Finally several of the
accessories themselves are included and they are pictured.
Good+..............$495.00
SOLD
Singer
29-4 Leatherworkers Treadle Sewing Machine The Singer 29-4 was designed and developed for a host of trades dealing with leather or other heavy material. With its freearm design and rotating head it had the ability to do a myriad of tasks put in front of it. This machine is in as nice condition as you could
want. After a thorough inspection and light cleaning I found no casting problems in the base, body or head. And I believe this machine to be 100% ready to go. It operates effortlessly and flawlessly, even for a novice sewer like me. The range of speeds with simple foot action on the treadle is amazing. Also included is an auxiliary table for flatwork that the previous owner made, and a drawer which I believe is original, full of spools and other misc. Shipping will be at cost and I will break it down as far as you want or ship it via Craters and Freighters, or however you want.
The condition of this workhorse of a sewing machine is superb, and it will be a long time before you see one as nice as this one again.
Good+..............$450.00
SOLD
Secor
Treadle Sewing Machine This early and unusual treadle sewing machine was produced during the 1870's.
According to Grace Cooper's book The Invention of the Sewing Machine she
has found entries for this company only from 1870-1876 before their entries
disappeared from the directories. Carter Bays estimates that this company only
produced 10,000 or so of this style of machine. There are some different
variations known in the table styles, but the machine and the treadle base are
usually as seen here. Carter Bays says in his book that this company was from
Bridgeport, Connecticut, but the basket weave design foot pedal on this treadle
says the "Secor S.M. Co. New York" around the border. The overall condition of
this piece is very nice. There is a lot of original finish and decoration left
on the machine itself. There is one sliding plate over the shuttle that is
missing but this minor to the overall effect. The base is nice and there are no
breaks or repairs in the ironwork in this area. The wooden cover is proper and
has had a positive effect in maintaining the nice condition of the rest of the
machine.
This is the same company that is so well known for producing the small integral
clamp Fairy Sewing Machine from a slightly later era. (You can see one of these
small sewing machines pictured on our collection pages.) This is a rare and
seldom seen machine. The condition of this machine is great given that they
were designed to be used day in and day out, and oftentimes were. This is the
first of this style machine we have ever had the pleasure to own or to offer for
sale. An opportunity that well might not present itself again anytime soon.
Excellent ............$2450.00
SOLD
Round Wooden Triumph Sewing
Machine This scarce sewing machines
features one of the most unusual and graphic designs that was ever thought up!
It is believed to have been manufactured by the Foley & Williams Co. and is
simply marked "Patent Appld For". The unusual round body is all wood with a
metal backing plate, and the body was designed with a small section of frame
that could be removed while sewing to allow the fabric to pass through, then
replaced when not in use to keep it stable. These machines are seldom
found and rarely offered for sale, and because of their age, design and
material they are generally found incomplete and in worn condition.
This example is 100% complete with all of it's original parts, including the
removable section and its retaining pin. You will be proud to display this
example along with your other "top-shelf" small sewing machines.
Very
Good................$1650.00
SOLD
Early
Patented Beckwith Clamp-On
Sewing Machine Patented in
1871 by the American inventor William G. Beckwith, this extremely hard-to-find
antique sewing machine is on top of the "wish list" of many avid sewing
machine collectors, and it is no wonder. The design of this sewing machine
is unlike that of any other, and its period of manufacture was only a few short
years. It was marketed as an actual home sewing and mending machine, not
as a toy, but its diminutive size of approximately 7" x 7" x 5"
and its unusual looks make it a favorite among toy sewing machine collectors as
well. This example is in excellent mechanical condition with a restored
paint job. There are a couple of minor dings on the metal stitchplate, but
given the rarity of this machine these notations on condition are of little
consequence and do not detract nor take away from the historical significance of
this machine.
Very Good................$SOLD
The
Madame Demorest Sewing Machine These
interesting and early patented sewing machines or devices were one of the first to earn the title of
sewing machine even though all they did was to gather up the material and
run the needle through it thus forming what is known as a running stitch,
like that used for basting. The idea must have been appealing, as there
are several other varieties of these that are known which were produced
during the same period, and these were probably bootleg models to try and
horn in on this fellow's "wonderful" idea and profit margin. It is
amazing that he could find anybody to buy
them as they are such a silly idea. I would bet that I could
beat this thing's output, and I cannot sew, but that is the sort of thing
that makes for great collectibles. In any case they are an
important link in the development of the early American sewing machine
story and they are
very graphic and beautiful in form. This one is in near mint
condition still exhibiting most of its gilding. It is complete with
its edge guide, screw feed and the clamp underneath that is oftentimes
missing. These are not offered very often, and are quite hard to find
these days. We are letting it go to make room for a couple of new
acquisitions to our collection we have managed to turn up. Can't keep
them all. Now its your turn to take care of it.
Excellent ...............$SOLD
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