Wheeler & Wilson (2)
1872
This is a 'Wheeler & Wilson' Model # 1, with a Flat, Wide Base
Rotary lock-stitch sewing machine, manufactured in Bridgeport, CT, 1872.
(Just as a time reference: ... Lincoln Dies & the Civil War ends in 1865.)
This Wheeler & Wilson sold on Ebay, December 2019.
This was my first Sidewinder type Sewing machine. W&W made multiple variations of this machine -
the Model #1 wide base style, is not the fanciest, but is fairly rare. It's the only one like it that I've owned.
This one was in pretty rough condition when I got it, so there was no saving the original decorations. They were originally quite vibrantly decorated, so I aimed for the same. Unfortunately, the stitch plate was too rusty, so I was forced to paint it, too, rather than polish. Most of the rest of the hardware came out pretty well, though.
These machines appear to be huge, but are surprisingly small, at only 6" tall (sewing plate is only 4" x 6").
They are heavy, though. No skimping on Iron on these babies. They're rock solid & Well Built. : )
General info about Wheeler & Wilson Sidewinders, & my tips can be found here . . .
This is a brass Thread Waxing attachment. As the thread passed through, it got waxed.
This helped prevent Thread fraying & breaks. Threads were more apt to break back in the days of this machine.
(This one says: Patent * 1863 *)
