Featherweight Fanatics Archives

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Date: Sat, 5 Oct 1996 20:32:09 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: 101 parts, trade old phone?

kind of quiet on the SM front. no good yard sales this weekend, and goodwill 
has
the same stripped rotten old import junk as last week. thought i'd dig out my 
101 and see if i could get it running. it's all original, wired into the 
cabinet
with the knee-lever pushing the rheostat-control pin in the bed of the machine.
it's missing the cord that goes from the 2-pin terminal on the back of the 
cabinet to the *light socket* (in your ceiling) this machine was made in 
pre-wall-outlet days, 1921. the cord that attaches the base of the machine to 
the terminal block in the cabinet is in poor condition as well. i know i could 
just rewire everything with modern wire, (and probably should!) but i want it 
to
be all original. does anyone have that cord? and more importantly, does anyone 
have a slide plate for  the 101? please?????? pretty please with motor lube and 
bobbins on top?  :)
back to the 101, gets me thinking of electricity. does anyone know of a book 
that tells the development of home electrical systems? when were the first wall 
outlets built into houses/ i have lived in a lot of old old funky houses with 
no
wall outlets, strange wall switches, cloth knob&tube wiring...and have always 
been curious about the timeline of development. i get a kick out of the old 
Singer manuals that tell you how to rewire the motors for 32V DC....all the 
rural electric companies having different voltages and such. remember when all 
the telephone exchanges had different sounding rings? BTW if anyone is into old 
Phones, i have an antique (i'll go look at it and get the details if you want) 
phone that i'd gladly trade for an interesting SM. maybe a cosmetically 
thrashed
FW without a case, attachments or manual but in good running order??????
partial trade even?
T.R.
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Date: 06 Oct 96 06:54:32 EDT
Subject: Re: Postings

Hi All -- 

Graham:  I finally got DH to dig around the find the Eurocheques so I can get
one off to you re joining ISMACS..  As you can imagine, we don't have much use
for the eurocheque book here in Moscow .  Also, don't be confused when you
see the return address -- it will be to Helsinki, Finland.  All of our mail
comes in through Helsinki.

Chris V:  it's been two weeks since I got your box you sent w/oil, needles and
manuals.  Thanks much.  I for one am thrilled that these old manuals are still
floating around esp. since the copy of the one you sent me is from 1900 and 
mine
in Russian is from 1911.  We should be so lucky if our present day manuals hold
up to time so well.
And yes, the back of my 1911 one is oil stained, too.

Graham:  since I am still so new to this, do us folks with "older" (more mature
)
machines "register" them w/FWFs or ISMACS, or?  I would like to have my cutie
down on records somewhere besides my household inventory.  Also, pls. get 
Maggie
to e-mail me some very specific details about what to look for when looking for
toy sewing machines -- don't think me daft, but I don't think I've ever seen
one.
Do they look like miniature sewing machines?  How big are they? Are they metal
-- ie what color?  The "junk" section of the flea market here is tremendous, 
and
not organized, so I need to pre-program my brain .  For others interested,
I'm not looking for myself but for other people who have expresssed an 
interest.
I can only get so much mileage out of blathering about the one machine I have
(VBG).

TR :  I had my sister in law in VA send me the latestThreads mag. so I
could see your article -- what fun!!  My real  question to you is:  when do you
sleep?  

Maryjo
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 09:15:39 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: More Singer stuff

Here's something else for us to be on the lookout for (as if we didn't
already have ENOUGH!) - something I'd never seen or heard of before. I have
a 1941 booklet called Singer Illustrated Dressmaking Guide with a drawing
and description of a table I'd LOVE to own: "Cutting Table - Cutting on the
floor or bed is very tiresome and can hardly be done accurately. A
collapsible utility table with attached extenson is very well suited for
this purpose - about 30 inches wide and, when set up, about 60 inches long.
When ready for sewing, a portable machine is inserted in an opening in the
table." The picture looks just like the fw card table, but there is a
similar sized extension leaf on the side (don't know whether it fit inside
the table, or came separate). Doesn't that sound GREAT?? Has anyone ever
seen one of these or do any of you lucky people OWN one? As I keep saying,
too bad Singer made so much neat stuff!
Sue M.
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 10:43:59 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Featherweight help!

My wife has a Featherweight with an electric motor.  The foot pedal has a
wire which plugs into the wall, and then wires terminating on a three-prong
female connector which plus into the machine.  The prongs are in a line (not
like modern electrical connectors with a ground) 

The problem:  The wires came loose from the connector which goes into the
machine and I am not sure how to properly reconnect them.

Can you steer me to a source for this?  Meanwhile, I'm going to start
collecting information for your survey!

Thanks!
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Date: Sun, 06 Oct 1996 12:37:57 -0400
Subject: Showing our age;

   This copied-qouted post below made me do a double-take.
IMHO...the post was correct....:-)
   Some readers may not know that it was the size referred to
 and not the amount of records the Black Box could contain.
To explain...in the OLD'N-DAYS (before tapes &CD's)....VBG..g...g.
78 rpm records were about 10 or 12 inches in diamater;
45 rpm records were about  5 or 6 inches in diamater w/large hole.

Now you know my age..."been there....done that" ..g.
Bud, 
--------------------COPY FROM PAST POST--------------------
..  > Date: Thu, 03 Oct 1996 13:10:43 -0700
..  > Subject: FW Fanatics replies

 
...>> Singer sewing machine which is in a little case which looks like
...>> a 78 record case.  I have been meeting with three quilting friends 

....>   Do hope you said a case which looks like it holds 45 records!!
------------------END OF COPY-----------------------------
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Date: Sun, 06 Oct 1996 13:12:59 -0400
Subject: Toy Sewing Machine Guide

Hi:

Just wanted to let everyone know that I've incorporated some of the
suggestions made by some of you to the "Guide to Toy Sewing Machines"
which now includes a Collectors' Exchange section.  The site is located
at:

http://www.clark.net/pub/duck/index.htm

Thanks 
Bob C
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Date: Sun,  6 Oct 1996 12:05:30, -0500

Sorry, I haven't been reading the list for a few days so I am just catching
up here. Graham, thank you for your response on the toy sm's I appreciate
it.  How long do I have to hold my breath for that spool pin? :)

Nancy, I paid $67 for the tan toy I picked up. I haven't had time to play
with it really but want to of course. Maybe today, it is a good day to just
hang out. We have been so busy and of course that won't change as the
holidays start approaching!

lisa
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 13:35:05 -0400
Subject: 201 problems

Hi! I wrote earlier but have never seen this in the digest. I guess my letter
got lost somewhere. I have a 201 I am having problems with it skipping
stitches. I don't have a manual yet and could someone give some suggestions.
Thanks,
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 13:11:39 -0400
Subject: Belt Problem?

Hi everyone,  I am now a FW Fanatic.  I bought a fw last weekend.  I am having 
a problem with it in that the belt slips.  I bought a new belt because the one 
on it looked worn.  The new belt is slippiing at times.  My question to all of 
you, could there be another reason that it is slipping?  I am really new at 
this so I would appreciate any help.  Once it runs it runs good and stitches 
good.

Thanks

Marquita
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Date: Sun, 06 Oct 1996 11:01:35 -0700
Subject: Wheeler and Wilson #8 and Singer 128 "godzilla"

Hi again,

Graham, 
I will echo the others: whomever wrote you such an ungrateful response
should NEVER be allowed free assistance or manuals again.  Gee, maybe
she could go copy her pages and then pay someone to bind them for her. I
have not asked for a manual copy as of yet, but rest assured, should I
do so, I will not complain about its "unprofessional" condition!

Wanted to respond to Clay and Shelly in regard to the 201 they acquired:
my 201 does have such a chrome oval on top, with the two oil holes and
the spool pin in the center.  However, my faceplate is striated, as is
the round rear plate. My model is a Centennial-emblem one, in a cabinet
(the cabinet is rather plain, two drawers either side, wood drawer
pulls, with knee lever). The scrollwork is also the plainer variety.

I have located a Wheeler &Wilson #8, No.513650, in what appears to be a
6 condition, no attachments or manual or anything else with it (just the
cabinet/table). The dealer is asking $269. Is this a reasonable price,
or a rip off?
Anyone interested, let me know, and I will tell you where to find it; I
am sure it can be shipped. 

The same dealer has a Singer 128, godzilla finish, bentwood case, in
great shape, with manual and a few bobbins. No other attachments. They
are asking $99.  Is this worth it?

I have got another Singer treadle; it had been electrified with the most
hideous bubble gum pink motor attached!  I have pulled the motor, and
will put on a new belt for the treadle. I think it is a 127. I won't be
keeping this one, as it is almost identical to the one I have at my
mothers, including the cabinet. The only difference seems to be that the
legs of this treadle are brown and straight up and down (think Frank
Lloyd Wright), rather than what I think of as the normal ornate black
wrought iron. This is the first time I have seen this sort.  I just had
to rescue it. It is in very nice shape.

I "fixed" the smoking motor problem on my 201. I consulted Bobbie, who
told me to take it in to the shop. I don't have a reliable repair
person, the nearest shop wanted $100 to put the whole machine into a
degreaser bath. They said there would be additional charges if the motor
needed replacing. So I figured I could experiment. If the result was
that I'd ruined the motor, it wouldn't really cost me any more. Such
logic, yes?  I took a can of an "Industrial Heavy Duty Degreaser", which
is mostly Trichloroethane (nasty toxic stuff) and sprayed the brushes
and the motor, tipping it and catching the runoff with old towelling. I
let the remainder evaporate, and tried the motor again. Success! No more
wisps of smoke. So I assume the problem was oil in the motor/brush
areas.

Have not yet seen any of the Florences, other than Bobbie's pictures of
hers.  The one shop who told me on the phone that they had an Elna
Lotus, turned out to be some sort of Elnita, made by Elna, but not
impressive at all. I have not seen any Wilcox and Gibbs either.  I did
find a "Graybar" in a cabinet, with a gray godzilla finish. Anyone ever
seen any of these? Lots of cams and things I could not identify. Very
wide flat round bobbins.  One FW in ghastly shape, but still priced at
$450.  One of the Mal's Mini Classics, can't remember the price they are
asking.  I have one of those India-made FW copies, purchased new by mail
order about 5 years ago. It sews adequately, but is not the equal of
what it is imitating.  

Someone is running a continuous ad in the Oregonian classifieds for the
past 4 weeks: Wanted to buy old Singer machines in little black box.
Will pay up to $150. With an 800 number.  Am sure this is a dealer who
will then resell at much inflated prices. Has anyone else noticed these
ads running in their classifieds?

Happy Sunday to all; I'm off to actually stitch on one or two of my
machines!

-- 
Elaine S
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Date: 06 Oct 96 15:42:49 EDT
Subject: Re: Contribution

To all
Thanks for the further supportive mail and your understanding of my little
outburst about the manual complaint.
Big batch of manuals going off tomorrow (Monday) which should bring me up to
date.

To Ann-Maree re Jones
The Jones mug you bought was produced in the 1960s for no better reason than to
jump on the nostalgia bandwagon which, unfortunately for we antique dealers, 
has
long since run out of tunes.

Jones was the largest, and oldest manufacturer in England. William Jones 
started
on a small shed in Guide Bridge, near Manchester, with his brother, producing
copies of a Grover and Baker machine. He then went on to copy Howe models 
before
starting lines of his own.
Company was very big at the turn of the century, boasted Royal patronage, had
also made kiddy-carts, strollers, bicycles, motorcycles, washing machines etc.

Eventually the company sold out to Brother in the early 1960s when all company
archives were destroyed.

Vicki re finding a FW.

Lots of antique outlets along Rt 20 between Worcester and Palmer. The big
Brimfield shows (largest in the USA) regularly turn up a score of FWs but the
next one is not until April 97. Try Cathy Raine (say hugs from Graham) at The
Simple Machine, Rt 20 Charlton, MA. It's on 20 between Auburn and Sturbridge.
Phone (508) 248 6632. They also have a small number of really old machines on
show.

To Karen re Willcox and Gibbs.

When you unlurk, there's no stopping you (g).
Your W&D dates 1889-1890. Belt from any large sm dealer.
AJ Mason was a large manufacturer who specialsed in making machines for large
department stores etc. They come with many different brand names. Active from
about 1910 to 1940.
Certainly schols were still using hand cranks in the 1960s but I doubt if any
are today -- in fact very few schools have sewing machines at all.
There is no way a 66K was made anywhere but in Scotland. A single "F" series 
was
not used. A FB series was introduced in 1971. Are you sure this is a 66 "K"?
Can do the manuals if you do not find any closer to home.

Terri re "J" machines
All Singer models with a J suffix were produced at St John's, Canada.

Sharon re pink Eldredge

Doesn't sound to bad to me. Would make a great base for Chris's canary yellow 
FW
-- the one with the picture of Elvis.And take no notice of Sharron who thinks
the Elvis idea is "over the top". We are talking good taste here and not
everyone is blessed with it.

To Sharron re sewing on airplanes

Why not a clockwork sewing machine. I'm not joking -- well, maybe just a little
-- for they did have such things back in the 1870s. Only problem would be the
size of the motor. You would need to book an extra two seats.
These 1870s machine were wound up by the footman  so that milady could play at
sewing without the effort of treadling. I have at least two reports of people
being killed following spring breakages.

TO Flo on why photo copies of manuals are free

For some years the International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society has allowed
me a small annual sum to spend on promotion/advertising etc. When I send out a
manual, with it goes a sheet telling folk about our society. Think of it, if 
you
like, as a very selective mail shot. Sorry if I've disillusioned any friends 
out
there but there ain't no free lunches, even on FWF.

To Chris
Thanks for plugging Frank's Sewing Machine Museum in Arlington Texas -- he
deserves all the support he can get. The only reason he fights shy of
photographs is that he also sells postcards but once he realises soemone is
seriously interested the rules are forgotten.

To all
Just had my 27th good luck totem of the week. How many more do I need to
guarantee the lottery?	
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Date: Sun, 06 Oct 1996 13:38:14 -0700
Subject: Capitalist Romance Books

For anyone interested...I found these.  Nothing in it for me, just passing on 
below, not
me.
thanks
Bobbie


> >Capitalist Romance by Ruth Brandon and published by J.R. Lippincott Co.
>> >(Phila. &NY) Copyright 1977 ISBN 0-397-01196-2
>> >
>> >1. Fine 1st ed in NF dj @ $29.00
>> >2. Vg 1st in Gd dj @ $27.50
>> >2. VG/Fine 1st no dj @ $25.00
>> 
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 19:56:06 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/3/96

To Mary :  No, sorry, I don't rent out my DH.  Maybe when he retires.  I
live in Atlanta, so unless you want to move, I'm as far north as I can stand!

To Chris:  I didn't actually use the candles on the brushes, I think TR 
did.  I just got the lecture from DH on brushes and lubricant and motors!!
 More than I could sort out.  Thanks for the recent newsletter.  Jean
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Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 18:37:18 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: 201 facts, industrial uses?

 Clay &Shelly   described their 201's details, and their repairman seemed 
surprised by it. the description also fit's my 201 to a tee. scrollwork, silver 
ovoid spool holder, chrome edged wheel. mine's serial is AF900081, a 1938 
machine. that kind of blows the wartime-issue machine theory. this is 
intriguing
though. i have not seen enough 201's to remember which details seemed unusual 
and which were more common. 

the 201 IS a full size head. i think the confusion comes from the fact that 
"modern" flat-bed Singers fall into 3 sizes:
3/4 size heads -12 1/4 x 6 3/4  (99, 185, 192 Spartan) 
Full size external motor - 14 3/4 x 7 (201, 66, 15, 101, 127, 247, 306 etc.)    
*External motor includes the gear-drive (101, 201, 15-91) as well as belt-drive 
machines*
Full size internal motor - 16 1/4 x 7 (400, 500 series, Touch-n-Sews)
however, all are 9 3/4 between hinges
the FW is the exception, of course.

the 1200 is the 201 without the gear-drive motor. same precision full-rotary 
top-drop bobbin and internal gearing. it could be used in a treadle stand or 
more intriguingly perhaps a power stand? is this where the rumors of 
"industrial" 201's come from?  The industrial machines i have sewn on in 
drapery
shops have all had internal oilbath/pump systems to protect the machine from 
the
heat and friction generated by the high speeds of a power stand. however with 
judicious and frequent oiling, i believe the 1200 could be used as a 
light/medium duty production machine. i'd like to find one. 1200 was also a 
later scaled down version of the 1970's Athena 2000 computer machine. i believe 
it's the only Singer model number ever used twice. Interestingly as well, the 
old 101 has an oil reservoir/wick system under its bed, and takes well to high 
speed sewing even though it's motor doesn't have nearly the poop of the 201. if 
you have a 101 with a good working motor, it can production sew all day without 
worrying about oil.
T.R.
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 01:51:42 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: misc

I recently received an AQS mailing which contained a full page color ad for
a book entitled SILK RIBBINS by MACHINE by Jeanie Sexton.  The photo shows
an exquisite Singer model 20 amidst all the colorful ribbbons and threads. 

I read someone's question on why slide plates are often missing.  I believe
it is because there is often a problem getting them back on properly.
Reminds me of the treadle I saw in an antique shop one day. It was a model
66, round bobbin, square slide plate.  But the slide plate was hiding in the
drawer. I took it out and told the shop owner that I was going to put it on
the machine and she was very grateful because she had tried and not been
able to do so.  (I only know how because when I could not get one on once I
pulled out my manual where it tells how to do this.) Instinct says put it on
from left to right; but it will not lock in place if you do. It has to go on
from right to left to lock it.
Millie M
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Subject: White FW + Midget toy SM sighted!
Date: Sun, 6 Oct 1996 17:39:21 -0400

I posted this but never saw it come up.If it already has pardon me please.

Saw a white FW for sale, contact me for directions.Had case and was in very
good shape.

Also saw a F+W Midget toy sewing machine today for sale.Origional wooden
box and in beautiful condition.In the Glenda Thomas Book on page 133 and
plate 70.Working and paint great and colorful.Metal nice.Anyone looking for
this model write me.

Maggie
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Date: Wed, 2 Oct 1996 09:14:10 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: An auction remembered

Hi, Feathers:

I haven't talked to you for a long time, but I'm still out here hunting 
and pecking.  Sunday afternoon I went to a local auction and found a 
White Rotary Portable in a really neat oak squared-off case with oak 
decorations.  The machine was wonderful, lots of decals; the footpedal 
was in the shape of the sole of a shoe.  Gorgeous!!!  I figured with the 
crowd that was there I'd pick this baby up for less that $10.  Wrong!!!  
One other couple was there that wanted it and I dropped out at $55.  I 
wonder if I should have gone on? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?   Oh, well.

Karen
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Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 08:18:16 -0500
Subject: FW: Apology to Graham

Graham:
I would like to apologize for anyone who would criticize the service you
provide for free.  You have sent me a copy of a manual and I greatly
appreciated it.  Would have been only to glad to pay a fee for the copying
and postage.  Please, please ignore anyone who shows such poor manners.  I
guess we have them everywhere.

Beth P
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 09:22:27 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: My "New" Singer

I hope someone can help me with this one.  I recently acquired a portable
electric Singer in a bentwood case.  The machine is in pristine condition
with all parts/attachments and manual.  The case has a new key and is in
excellent condition.  The serial number (I think it's the serial number) is
AE385348 and I believe the model number is 128-13.  Can anyone tell me
anything about this machine and what it's value may be?


Piece &enJoy!

Beth
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Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 10:14:08 -0500
Subject:  A possible lead-----

Greetings to all----
     I noticed a black 221 in the window of an antique store this past
weekend. I stopped in and asked the woman how much she wanted for
it and she said that she was hoping for $300 but I am pretty sure she
would have taken less.
     The antique shop is located in Kutztown , PA which is about 18 miles
from Allentown---  not to far from New Jersey or Philly. The machine
was in great shape and would be a great addition . The antique shop is
located  next to the "Subway -sub shop".
      I hope this helps some FWF searcher !!!!!!!! :) :) :)
                                                    Bob S
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Date:         Mon, 07 Oct 96 10:30:06 EDT
Subject:      Riccar Model 608 "Stretch Stitch"

Hello everyone.  My mother bought a Riccar Model 608 "Stretch Stitch"
machine at an auction this past weekend.  She paid $25.  I haven't seen
the machine yet, but she says it hardly looks used at all.  It is
"portable" (very heavy, though), has some attachments and only one
bobbin.  She asked me to post to FWF to ask if anyone can share any
information about this machine and possibly a copy of a manual.  Email
me privately if anyone has access to a manual and we'll work out details.
By the way, she is going to give the machine to my sister!!! for her
birthday---should I cry?
Thanks for your help.
Linda
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 96 11:39:31 +0100
Subject: Greist, cams, tension

Hi All,

I didn't see this message hit the digest, so I am posting it again. 

Several things which are oft' repeated puzzle me.

'Green Greist box for attachments'.  A dark green cardboard box with
attachments came to me with my grandmother's 1913 treadle.  The attachments
could have been bought at any time.  They don't say Greist on the metal
attachments nor on the box.  How do I identify Greist attachments?  I also
just bought a 1956 99 with a lighter green box of attachments but the top of
the box is clearly marked Singer.  Are Greist attachments better?

'Cams'.  What's a cam look like and what does it do?  Where does it go on
the machine?

Also, I just cleaned up my grandmother's  1913 treadle machine.  The only
uncleaned part is the tension area.  Is it foolish to take apart the tension
parts to clean the dirt and minor rust?  I am a novice but do have the guide
to repair the 15.  The tension seems to work fine.  But I would hate to mess
it up.

I also cannot get the bobbin to wind properly.  It is too loose.  The
picture of how to adjust the bobbin winder in the service manual doesn't
look like my apparatus.  Any hints?

Also the directions on page 20 of sevice manual on how to lubricate the
motor doesn't coincide with my machine.  I don't seem to have two thumb
screws with grease cups.  Do they always have thumb screws?  I am beginning
to doubt that I have a 15, although that is what Singer told me.

I really look forward to reading this every day.  And I found a new Goodwill
store yesterday that I will call to see if they have any machines!  Thanks
for all your great information.

Jan D
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 08:53:00 PDT
Subject: Miscellaneous + Thanks

It was just wonderful to see all the old digests updated on the Home 
 Page.  I spent the better part of last week printing them at lunchtime 
 on the faster printer at work.  The biggest problem is that I spend 
 all of my spare time reading them  instead of sewing, cleaning or 
 talking to my family.  What a great source of all sorts of information 
 about sewing machines and related.  Thanks to Sue for the fantastic 
 job.  (Sorry to Graham for the grumpy FWF - some of the other mail 
 lists are filled with these grumps!   Did you get to Niagara this last trip?)

I went hunting last weekend and didn't find sewing machines but did 
 find some related material which was fun -- discovered a new antique 
 vendor who will be a good source of printed material.  I bought three 
 New Home cards (two with pithy rhymes on them about buying sewing 
 machines), one White card and three of the city scenes with the 
 advertising for Singer on the back -- Buffalo, NYC and Fairmount Park 
 in Phila.  In addition, they had about 15 of the tobacco silks with 
 the flags.  These were reasonably priced but not cheap but I got 
 hooked some time ago.  

DH has seen something positive out of this machine thing now.  I 
 organized the manuals for everything we own over the weekend -- all 
 nicely filed in notebooks inside those plastic page covers - it filled 
 two 3" binders but it is soooo much easier to find stuff than before 
 when they were all over the place -- being good packrats we had at 
 least kept them all!  (Made us realize how many toys we had!)

Talked to someone today that said they had seen a small Bernina (like a 
 FW) that a local machine embroiderer had brought over with her from 
 England.  She said they had not sold them here in US.  Anyone know 
 anything about this - model number ?  I know I want one of these!!  
 She didn't have color or anything.  Like FW, no one sells old Berninas 
 (including me).  So now my want list is a tan FW, a white FW, a 
 freearm FW, an Elna Lotus and this new Bernina!

I definitely need at least a "fix" of attachments to get through the 
 week.  Guess will have to be satisfied just using the machines until 
 the weekend.
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Subject: Whining.........
Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 10:50:36 -0500

I still love reading FWF but I am really getting depressed!    Here in
my corner of East Texas the mention of SM's in sale ads are few and far
between, and so far, those that have been mentioned have turned out to be
JC Penney's or Kenmore or -- well, you get the picture!  Perhaps people in
ET do not sell their SM's --- maybe they are passed down, generation after
generation?  There is a great emphasis on antiquity and length of pedigree
here.  Hmmmm........  maybe I could get a government grant to do a study on
this -- then I could afford to go traveling to the SM "hot spots".  Needs
thinking about.

Barbara
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Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 10:41:08 -0500
Subject: 99K and Web Pages

Hi Feathers, 

I haven't posted anymore about my 222k (purchased as a souvenir in England, 
you may remember) because I haven't finished the refurbishing yet.  I will 
post about the transformer business, etc., when I have Beatrice running.

Many thanks to those of you who have s.m. photos and information on your web 
pages.  It's wonderful to read about a "new" s.m. and just cruise over to a 
web page to view it.

Shannon,

Thanks for pursuing the lightweight, godzilla-finish 99K thing.  Wow, is 
that interesting!  Forty-five hundred made, huh?  Wonder if there is one in 
my neck of the woods, just waiting to be discovered.

Julie
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Subject: 99K Singer Sewing Machine
Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 22:04:00 +0000

Today I saw a 99K in a local antique shop for $200.  Is this a good price?
The machine seemed in fair condition with a cloth covered case showing a
little wear.  This looks like about a 3/4 size head and the gold is in fair
shape.
I have an old Singer power machine SN AB846571 mounted on the original table
with a treadle and huge motor.  Can anyone help me date it.  I'm sure it
came from a sewing factory before WWII.  I appreciate any info you can provide.
Carol E
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/3/96

For Graham,

I hope you just ignore comments from ungrateful, obviously ignorant people.
I lurk most of the time here, and was shocked that someone could be so
incredibly rude about a helpful service such as you provide.

Janet  (who got a new FW baby a few weeks ago, and plans to soon add a tan
and one more black to the group)
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 19:57:13 -0400
Subject: Singer in NYT, motor cleaning, etc.

Hi all! Thought I'd post another couple of NY Times articles. Thanks to
all who replied with follow-up info to the last one. I was going to post
the July 1951 article about Singer's exhibit on 2000 years of sewing,
but at about half the length of the entire column, it's a lot of typing!
(Though if enough people insist, I could add it to our website.) Anyway,
here goes:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times, September 17, 1951 (page 32)

"SINGER PLANS EXHIBIT
100th Anniversary of Patent to Be Marked This Week
ELIZABETH, N. J., Sept. 16--
The 100th anniversary of the patenting of the first Singer sewing
machine will be observed by the Singer Manufacturing Company at its
recreation building here for two weeks, beginning tomorrow. The
observance, a company spokesman said, will include exhibition of new and
old sewing machines, demonstrations of a variety of unusual uses for
sewing machines and exhibits of activities here.
 The programs will be given nightly, Monday through Friday, from 7 to 9
o'clock, with the 9400 employees of the local Singer plant and their
families attending on specified evenings. Sept. 22 has been set aside
for the Singer Veteran Employes [sic] Association, composed of retired
and active workers on the company payroll for forty years or more.
Cooperating in the celebration is the Diehl Manufacturing Company in
Finderne, N. J., a Singer subsidiary, whose employes [sic] are among the
total of 20,000 to whom the company is expected to play host."
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The New York Times, February 24, 1955 (page 42)

"Advertising and Marketing News

The Singer Sewing Machine Company has a new junior-size machine and a
new marketing plan. It is introducing a precision-designed miniature
sewing machine for children, to be offered both as a toy and as a primer
for the neophyte.
 Further, the company, which for seventy years has been retailing its
products through company-owned sewing centers exclusively, will sell
through toy shops and department stores, through Joseph J. Bartnett,
Inc., sales representative. The new policy will apply only to the
miniature machine, called the Sewhandy, according to Charles F. Bruder,
Singer vice president.
 F. A. O. Schwarz, toy retailer, will be the first to handle the
machine, and a special window display is planned during the American Toy
Fair next month.
 Mr. Bruder expects national distribution to be completed by June 1, and
a national trade and consumer advertising program is in the planning
stage, through Young &Rubicam, Inc. The theme will be 'Mother, daughter
and dolly appeal.' The machine will retail for $12.95, with the case
extra."
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Does anyone know about the Diehl Company? I know it sounds familiar, but
I never associated it with Singer.

Motor Cleaning:
Someone mentioned a smoking motor on a 201, and described how she
cleaned it up to solve the problem. I have cleaned the contacts on a
couple of motors with great success. My solvent of choice is the old
motorcycle mechanics best friend, contact cleaner. Sprays right on,
dissolves all kinds of bad stuff, and evaporates completely when it's
done. You can find it at some automotive stores, and at Radio Shack, as
Cleaner/Degreaser. I would keep it away from the lacquer, as besides
Triclorotrifluorethane 76-13-1, Trichloromonofluoromethane 75-69-4, and
Carbon Dioxide 124-38-9, it contains Isopropanol 67-63-0 (rubbing
alcohol).

Toy Question:
Recently got a toy sm for our 5 year-old son to start on, and would like
to know more about it. It's a RED RED RED tin "drop-head" electric chain
stitcher in a little wood case that carries on the color scheme to a
tee. It has a foot pedal which holds two "D" batteries (same red, of
course), and the name plate on the machine says "ELECTRIC KRAEMER little
modiste JAPAN". Machine, case and foot pedal are a solid 8-9, and our
son LOVES it. Anyway, I thought someone out there (Maggie, perhaps?)
would know something about this little number, and would be willing to
share.

And thank you to all who replied about the 201 (especially T.R. Kelley,
who seems to know almost everything about old Singers). I think, judging
from the response, that our 201 is actually a pretty common style, and
that our SM mechanic hasn't had very much experience with this model. I
believe he mentioned once that he got into the business about the time
that the 401 came out, so his experience with older models is pretty
much limited to what people have brought in for repair or trade over the
years.

Clay (&Shelly)
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Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 20:21:33 -0400
Subject: Contribution

Hi all! I'm another lurker &have been bitten by the SM bug! My mil just
gave me a 'Vindex B' treadle made by the National Sewing Machine Co. in
Belvidere, Illinois. It's black w/fancy scrollwork on the front, back,
and bed. It's got some measurements on the throatplate (can't quite make
out yet as it needs a really good cleaning!) Stand has got 2 fancy
drawers on each side &a box of attachments. Haven't found a serial no.
yet. Has anyone ever heard of this? 
I'm having great fun reading all the info out there! Thanks all!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 20:21:20 -0400
Subject: one more for the collection

Hello Fellow Fanatics,
        I bought yet one more for the collection. It is small like a
featherweight, but heavy like a boat anchor.
It is in a bent wood carrying case and is a New Royal. It is made by the
Free Sewing Machine Co. USA. It had a Westinghouse motor on it, but it was
wired wrong, and the wiring is destroyed.   
        I was not able to find any patent date on it anywhere. It did not
have any attachments or manual. If anyone has any information, or a manual,
please let me know.
        I do not know how many machines I have now, but I am clearly ready
to start a Charter chapter of the SMCA (sewing machine collectors anonymous) 
        I really enjoy being a FWF.
jb 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 07 Oct 1996 12:52:10 -0700
Subject: Re: Pfaff 230

I'm still searching for my very own Featherweight.  Walked into quilting 
class Friday and a woman had a "10" white FW she had inherited from her 
aunt.  It was pretty funny to see Bernina 1630 owners all standing in a 
circle drooling at this little beauty.  Looked as though it just came 
off the factory floor, not even a speck of dust or a scratch.  The 
quilting instructor spent about 15 minutes on an additional piecing 
demo, just so she could use the FW . I've found a delightful 206K 
and a "needs work" 99 presently in pieces.  Still no FW.  I did see 
a Pfaff 230 in the "used" section at the sewing machine dealers.  It's a 
smallish machine, but i was unable to pick it up to gauge weight, etc.  I 
know the Elna Lotus is a good find... what about this little Pfaff?  
Can anyone out there tell me more about it?  

Love the FWF digest, but is it possible to switch to receiving individual 
postings instead?  Easier not to lose my place or resource listing!  Many 
thanks, 

Valerie T
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Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
	id AA14090; Wed, 9 Oct 96 14:33:50 EDT
Date: Wed, 9 Oct 96 14:56:20 -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics 10/8/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id: 

Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 22:43:48 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: singer feather weight spindle (fwd)

Hi friends, i recieved this email recently, and cannot help this person out. am 
forwarding on to thie list in hopes one of you may have the part she needs. 
reply directly to her (address in message)
-----------------------------
I have recently acquired a Singer Feather Weight. It was damaged slightly in 
shipment. The thread spindle assembly was broken. I am in need of the spindle, 
mounting screw and plate to which the spindle mounts. This will bring the 
machine back to its original condition, which is nearly perfect.
Your assistance in locating these parts is deemed essential. Direct all replies 
to res4221@innova.net.
Thanks for your assistance;
Ginnie Smith

------------ Forwarded Message ends here ------------
T.R.
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 22:57:53 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: machines spotted in Oregon

on my way to corvallis to pick up a 101 from another FWF (hi Sharon! loved your 
shiny beautiful SM collection!) i spotted sewing machines in the window of 
another small town antique/junk shop. SCREEEECH!!!! pull across traffic and 
park.
the proprietor was a friendly old SM guy from way back, (Viking &Singer) did 
repairs in the store as well. had mostly old 50's imports, but up in the window 
were a 99 in a wooden case (foot control) for $95, (condition 6) some old 
Singer
industrial shoe stitcher (didnt' catch the price) and a 1912 W&G portable, 
non-original motor ( a hamilton-beach Jackrabbit) &homemade case for $600! (it 
did have the original manual, however) can you beleive that? all the decals 
were
worn off, it was grimy. i didn't want to insult the guy, cuz obviously he 
thought it was something really special. he alluded to having a large quantity 
of old machines in his back room that i could come and look at after closing 
time, but i didn't quite like the way he was looking at me, if you know what i 
mean. 
Onward to get the 101. it came with an original manual for the "101-3 and 
101-11" the 101-11 was described as a portable machine with the body made of 
ALUMINUM! has anyone ever seen one of these? i always thought the 221 and then 
the 301 were the first aluminum machines. this manual has great pictures of a 
woman in a 20's hairdo using the portable with the knee-lever like a 99.
the one i got is the 101-3. needs some wiring work but appears clean and sound, 
and will probably live out it's life as a school machine.
T.R.
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Date: Mon, 7 Oct 1996 23:21:36 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: motor blocks, 201 needles, degreasing

MaryJo asked:
> TR :  I had my sister in law in VA send me the latestThreads mag. so I
> could see your article -- what fun!!  My real  question to you is:  when do 
> you sleep? 

between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m usually, with a nap around 3 in the afternoon. Pacific 
Time. :) what i have a hard time finding space for, between machine play, 
children, husband and music career is actual SEWING! :)

>Charles  asked:
> The problem:  The wires came loose from the connector which goes into the
> machine and I am not sure how to properly reconnect them.

i wish i could draw a picture of this, but will try to explain with words:
looking at the machine from the handwheel end, 3 pins of the machine's terminal 
block right to left. 
pin #1 -one side of the lamp wire
pin #2 - one side of the controller wire, one side of the motor wire
pin #3 - other side of the lamp, other side of the controller, other side of 
the
motor wire
pins #1 and #3 in the are ones connected to the wall plug

Rose asked:
> Hi! I wrote earlier but have never seen this in the digest. I guess my letter
> got lost somewhere. I have a 201 I am having problems with it skipping
> stitches. I don't have a manual yet and could someone give some suggestions.

the needle in the 201 goes in with it's flat side to the left, and threads 
right
to left. make sure you use a sharp new needle as well.

Elaine!
>  took a can of an "Industrial Heavy Duty Degreaser", which is mostly 
>Trichloroethane (nasty toxic stuff) and sprayed the brushes
> and the motor,
i'm sure this worked well, but personally i prefer to stay away from nasty 
chemicals. and yes Chris, i know brushes are cheap but a trip to the store (and 
even mailorder which i love)  takes time and money. burning out the brushes is 
cheap and kind of fun in a self reliant pioneer/pyromaniac kind of way. and 
much
less toxic! :) 
 T.R.
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Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 06:25:54 GMT
Subject: Nickel Nik

I wanted to tell you about a new way to scout how FW's!!  I just recently 
found a web page for our local Nickel Nik paper.  It also has links to 
several other of the same kind of papers in this area.  You do a key word 
search of the classified ads which are updated every Friday.  There has not 
been a FW in my area but I have searched the ads about 300 mi away and there 
were probably 1 or 2 in last weeks ads.  They don't usually say FW, they say 
Singer portable -- so they could be either a 301 or FW.  Wish I was closer, 
but one will show up here some day.

Anyway, if you have a browser, take a look and see if you can find your 
local "Nickels."

Thanks, Graham, for the info dating my Willcox &Gibbs.  I have a new belt 
for it, just haven't put it on yet.  And, thank you Sue for this list!

Karen
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: Singer Childrens Model 20
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 12:23:04 +0000

I received the e-mail address from Singer.  I have a childrens Model 20
sewing machine in the original box with original directions included.  I
want to sell it but have no idea of a price range.  Any help would be
appreciated.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 08 Oct 96 10:05:22 EDT
Subject: Re: FW  Wiring

To All:

I also need info on wiring the FW 3 prong thingy.  I can't figure out where to
put which wire.  I'm hopeful that some kind  soul out there will give us this
important info.

Also, I posted recently about a Bel Air that I purchased.  It is 2-toned, cream
on top and red on bottom, VERY heavy (and they call it portable!), with
attachments, manual and a very nice case.  Does anyone have info on who made
this machine and any other pertinent info?  It doesn't have a scratch on it
...just needs to be cleaned up.  

TIA,
Carol
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 09:29:22 -0400
Subject: My second FW

My second FW just got delivered to me yesterday. Her name is Thelma
after the original owner who purchased her in 1936.  She's an AD
serial # (1934) and about a 7-8 on Graham's scale.  I've had an AM
for about 3 years now and my 8 1/2 year old daughter is so attached
to it that I can hardly ever use it.  We had a great time comparing
the two machines since they are on opposite ends of the production
run.  The scrollplate, the bobbin winder and the gold design were
what we noticed immediately.

I have an aunt in Sun City, AZ (LOTS of retired folks out there!) and
when she was visiting this summer I showed her my machine and asked
her to be on the lookout for one.  She found this within two weeks
by checking the weekly paper and put me in touch with a man out there
selling his wife's sister's machine.  We talked, agreed on a price, 
I mailed him a check and my aunt picked it up.  My aunt and my Dad
(near me) were attending a cousin's wedding last weekend in California
so "Thelma" has been passed through a few airports.  No problems with
security reported!

Couple questions for the group --- Thelma (the AD) has a black smooth
belt.  My "newer" AM has an orangeish belt with "teeth".  Are both
OK or does one belong with the "newer" SM?  In Nancy J-S's book, I
think I'm spotting both - one in the introductory pictures and one
in the manual reprint.

Also - Thelma's side bed won't stay upright when I go to change the
bobbin - I "bonks" right down.  On the AM I can have it stay up (or
even put it at an 10:00 position and will stay there.  Any insight?
I couldn't get the screw to budge and I think this is the key.

Lastly - am I imagining things or did I pick up that our list
mistress Sue Traudt is having a BABY?  Can someone set the record
straight?

Thanks.

--
Clare L
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Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 09:14:35 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: IMportant wiring correction

when speaking of motor blocks and terminal wiring i was a little vague
i was describing a terminal block where the controller is hard-wired into the 
machine and only the power cord is separate. For the FW, where the controller 
cord is attached to the 3-pin terminal WITH the wall cord separate from 
machine,
it should have read as follows:
ON THE MACHINE;
>pin #1 -one side of the lamp wire
>pin #2 -  one side of the motor wire
>pin #3 - other side of the lamp, other side of the motor wire

In the CORD's terminal block, (in case you ever dissassemble one to replace old 
wire.)
Pins #1 and #3 in the are ones connected to the wall plug
Pins #2 and #3 are connected to the controller.

HOpe this makes it into the same digest as the first message, and sorry for any 
confusion!
T.R.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 11:01:17 -0400 (EDT)

Graham wrote:
> There is no way a 66K was made anywhere but in Scotland. A single "F" series 
> was
> not used. A FB series was introduced in 1971. Are you sure this is a 66 "K"?

I have a list that says the single "F" series was from 1910 -1912. Singer 
began with FA in the late 1960's. Singer had many manufacturing plants 
that were actually built to assemble machines, not produce them from 
scratch, and these unassembled machines were usually shipped from St. 
Johns, Quebec, Scotland or Elizabeth, N.J. It's possible that the machine 
referred to was produced in Great Britain, but shipped elsewhere for 
assembly, and sold with documentation for the country that assembled it.  
Singer, though, will only be able to tell by the prefix the country that 
produced it, not the country in which it was assembled and sold.

Also, I am looking for a bobbin case for a Standard Sewhandy. Please 
contact me if anyone knows the whereabouts of one. Thanks.

Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 10/6/96
Date: Tue, 08 Oct 96 10:49:00 PDT

Hi-
Can anyone tell me if there is a book available describing the various makes 
and models of machines to look for? I am new to sewing machines and have no 
idea what I am doing. I saw a pretty old Singer in an antique store. It had 
decaling all over it. It came in a box but the lid was missing. It had a 
small wooden box with a bunch of attachments, and the foot pedal was metal 
and shaped like a foot? The person in the shop had no idea what model it 
was. Is there a way to determine value of machines?
Thanks,
Nancy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 08 Oct 96 14:28:59 EDT
Subject: Re: Contribution

To TR  re electricity

There's a book "Mr Edison's wonderful lamp" plus information booklets from the
Edison site at Orange NJ which give a good insight into the history of
electricity in the home.
If your old phone is really antique -- ie over 100 years old -- I would be
interested.

Maryjo
The idea of a machine register is one we have considered at ISMACS for some 
time
but when we have floated it in the magazine there has been insuffient response
to make it worthwhile.
A range of toy sewing machines was made in Russia in the 1950s and 60s but I'm
not sure whether these were for export only. Czech and E German machines were
inmohrted during the same period. I spent a lot of time behind the Iron Curtain
in the 60s and 70s and certainly, then, there was very little in the way of
"up-market" toys available and no spare money to buy them with.
You've just reminded me of a true story. Watch for the Czech farmer and the tin
of coffee.

Lisa
Send me your snail address and details of the machine you need the spool pin 
for
and I'll fire up the lathe.

Elaine re Wheeler and Wilson

The sn you give dates out at 1870 but this was five years before W&W introduced
the No 8 machine. Are you sure there isn't a 1 in front of it -- my W&W data
seems fairly reliable., 
Either way $270 for a 6 condition No 8 is 'way too much. These are not rare and
one should be able to get an 8 condition example for $250 and a little 
patience.
We are getting the same adverts in England but there's an answer machine at the
other end which tells you the guy is the world's best buyer of machines. You
then send the machine (at your cost) and he sends you what he thinks it's
worth.Does the word scam come to mind here?
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 08 Oct 1996 11:11:20 -0700
Subject: 306K

I just wondered what anyone knows about the 306K.  I guess it's the 
second ZZ Singer made and a big flop.  I picked one up at the Quilt Guild 
'yard sale'.  It seemed to want to be saved.  It is in a case like a 301 
case.  Also I was wondering about 301 cases.  It looks like there were 2 
very different type of cases for 301's. Is anyone an 'expert' on these?  
I also have a toy "sew handy" I think that needs a spool pin.  Anyone 
sell these things?  Thanks for all the help.  I'm out saving old machines 
but I may have to evict a couple of kids to make space if I keep it up!
    Taria
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 08 Oct 96 14:32:03 EDT
Subject: Contribution 30 not subbed

True story number thirty

You must all by now know my opinion of the glut of "what's it worth" guide 
books
covering just about every concievable subject.
Recently one has been published which is giving me a good laugh a couple of
times every week.

It's a general  guide covering a vast range of goods including one of my
specialities -- antique typewriters. It's produced the cheap and easy way by
requesting results from a number of auction houses which, being keen to
advertise their expertise, pick the most sensational lots for inclusion.

They round figures up a little as does the  the publisher who also adds on a 
bit
for inflation before the book is sent to the printer.

Now a year or so back an old typewriter of a fairly common brand made big, big
money in auction. It did so because it was a special presentation model with
silvered brightwork and a special brigh-red paint job. It sold for around 
$1200.
By the time the picture (black and white) had appeared in the book the price 
had
some how jumped to $1600 and there was no mention at all of it being anything
out of the ordinary.

In standard finish these machine will fetch $100 on a good day, down hill and
with the wind behind them. They can be picked up easily at antique malls and
flea markets.

Now a couple of times a week the 'phone rings. The conversation goes something
like this.
'I've got one of those typewriters like in the book. It says $1600 but I can 
let
it go for $1400"
From me: "What colour is it?"
"Black"
From me: "I'll give you $75."
"What? I paid $100"
Now, you can see the fun I'm having!!!

Graham F
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 16:33:52 -0400
Subject: POST:  Another Frisster &Rossman

  After haunting antique stores for months, my DH and I went to an auction
last night - a first for us both.  Mostly we watched and listened.  It was
great fun!  Only bid on 2 items - and got one of them - another Frisster &
Rossman handcrank, Agent was Pierrson, SN 1032507.  A bit older than my other
one, with better gold.  Case is in nicer condition, too, and it came with the
key!  Most importantly, it has a needle!  I can hardly wait to have time to
play with it.  
  Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Barb
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 18:48:19 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Vindex B &99K

Tom C  said:

> Hi all! I'm another lurker &have been bitten by the SM bug! My mil just
> gave me a 'Vindex B' treadle made by the National Sewing Machine Co. in
> Belvidere, Illinois. It's black w/fancy scrollwork on the front, back,
> and bed. It's got some measurements on the throatplate (can't quite make
> out yet as it needs a really good cleaning!) Stand has got 2 fancy
> drawers on each side &a box of attachments. Haven't found a serial no.
> yet. Has anyone ever heard of this?

If you can beg, borrow, or steal (or find at your local library) a
copy of Grace Rogers Cooper's history of the American sewing machine,
look on pages 150 and 151.  She's included ads for the Vindex Special
(from 1905) -- the first ad looks a little like your description.

Carol E  said:

> Today I saw a 99K in a local antique shop for $200.  Is this a good
> price?  The machine seemed in fair condition with a cloth covered case
> showing a little wear.  This looks like about a 3/4 size head and the
> gold is in fair shape.

Ack!  Someone must have mistaken it for a featherweight.  The 99 is a
baby sister to the model 66 -- it's a great little machine, but kind
of high at $200.

You can call the Singer 800 number (listed at the end of the digest every
day)  with the serial number of your machine to find out its birthdate and
model. 

Happy hunting!
Terri
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 08 Oct 1996 16:59:25 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/7/96


>------------------------------------------------------------------------
>The New York Times, September 17, 1951 (page 32)
>
>"SINGER PLANS EXHIBIT
>100th Anniversary of Patent to Be Marked This Week
>ELIZABETH, N. J., Sept. 16--
------snipped----------
 The programs will be given nightly, Monday through Friday, from 7 to 9
>o'clock, with the 9400 employees of the local Singer plant and their
>families attending on specified evenings. Sept. 22 has been set aside
>for the Singer Veteran Employes [sic] Association, composed of retired
>and active workers on the company payroll for forty years or more.
>Cooperating in the celebration is the Diehl Manufacturing Company in
>Finderne, N. J., a Singer subsidiary, whose employes [sic] are among the
>total of 20,000 to whom the company is expected to play host."
>------------------------------------------------------------------------

        I worked part time for Diehl Mfg. Co as an apprentice draftsman [woman]
        at this very date in time, and yes, I remember this
extravaganza...not real
        well, but remember, nonetheless.


>Does anyone know about the Diehl Company? I know it sounds familiar, but
>I never associated it with Singer.

        Yes, and it's mailing address was Finderne, NJ, however, it was 
        physically located just across the trestle/RR tracks in Manville, NJ


Oh My Gawd folks..........I am certainly AGING myself here!!!!!!!! and bringing
 back all sorts of forgotten memories.


>
>And thank you to all who replied about the 201 (especially T.R.,
>who seems to know almost everything about old Singers).

        Yes she's quite knowledgeable, however I don't think there's anyone
        around who knows almost everything about the Singers (g), even some
        of the elderly ex-employees.


Bobbie
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Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 21:59:26 -0400
Subject: A Sewing Machine for Wendy

Hello to all of you Fine Feathered Friends:

Sorry I haven't posted about this lately, but I've been out of town for over
a week.  As you may have seen from Millie MacKenzie's posting, a hand crank
machine is on it's way to Wendy.

Several of you made offers of $ towards Wendy's machine, which I am now going
to take you up on.  I have a total of $95 pledged from you generous FWFs.
 I'll go ahead and send a check to Wendy's school in the name of FWFanatics.
 I recently received a message from Ms. Jan Gunderson, the librarian at
Wendy's school.  The students are so excited from our offer of a donation
that they are having a fundraiser to collect the rest of the money! 

So for now I don't want to accept any more offers for donations.  I think
Wendy's fellow students will enjoy collecting the rest.  (If they have any
problem doing this, I feel certain we can help them out.)  For those of you
who are already committed for donations, I'll get in touch with you
personally.

Thank you all for your overwhelming support for this worthwhile endeavor.

Bye for now -- Larry
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Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 22:10:37 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: my 2 cents

Someone wrote and asked:  'Love the FWF digest, but is it possible to switch
to receiving individual postings instead?'

I have not been writing much lately, but I just had to jump in here. My 2
cents says KEEP IT LIKE IT IS!!!!!!!! Getting it all in one digest sure
makes life easier.

I had subscribed to another daily forum and quit after the first couple of
days when I realized that my email had gone out of control.

thanks for listening... Millie
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Subject: RE 12K, WHERE DO I FIND THE SERIAL NUMBER
Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 20:29:03 -0600

Hello,

I found the neatest hand crank Singer today.  Saturday we went to an estate 
sale where I found a nice little 99 in a cabinet with a buttonholer and a 
zigzag attachment, but no presser foot or the little green box of 
attachments.  I placed a silent bid, figuring it would sell anyway and this 
was just a shot in the dark.  Well, they took my bid for $45.00, and I 
trotted down to get it.  While there, I decided to look around at the 
antique mall that is part of this estate sale business.  Lo and Behold, I 
spot a hand crank Singer, in the neatest bread box, and I could tell it was 
really old.  I bought it, and have identified it as a 12K in the ISMACS 
book.  It's in a 9+ condition considering how old I am guessing it to be. 
 About 1870?  I need to find the serial number though.  I've looked in 
every place I can think of to look.  Graham, can you help me?
I'd love to find a manual too, I promise to be thrilled with anything I can 
get.

This hand crank came with a bag of attachments, most I really can't figure 
out, but it had a  wood handled screwdriver, and the neatest little oil 
can.  It's about 2 inches in diameter,  and it is flat, it appears to be 
very old.   The wooden case has a little compartment inside of it with 3 
sections, it doesn't lock with a key, it has 2 metal pieces on the right 
that fit into matching grooves on the base, and on the left it has a flat 
metal piece that fits down over another metal piece and locks.  What do I 
have here?  A real treasure?  I think so, but was $165.00 too much to pay. 
 Please, someone, help me out here and tell me what I have.  	THANKS IN 
ADVANCE	!!!!!!

Thank heaven DH is as thrilled with the new baby as I am.  Oh yeah, the 99 
came in the cutest little cabinet with a lovely inlaid design on the door 
that swings out to support the top.  It's an AE, so am assuming it is a 
1936, will find out tomorrow.  What a day!   But where do I put another 
cabinet?  Goes to show, when you really don't care about getting your bid 
accepted, it will be.

Mary 
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Date: Tue, 8 Oct 1996 22:23:51 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/7/96


On Tue, 8 Oct 1996, Featherweight Fanatics wrote: 
> Also, I just cleaned up my grandmother's  1913 treadle machine.  The only

> Also the directions on page 20 of sevice manual on how to lubricate the
> motor doesn't coincide with my machine.  I don't seem to have two thumb
> screws with grease cups.  Do they always have thumb screws?  I am beginning
> to doubt that I have a 15, although that is what Singer told me.
> 
> Jan D   (not Bob)  

Jan, and anyone else who this has happened to,

The same thing happened to me. Last year, Santa brought my 6 yr old her
own sewing machine, which he had on lay-a-way at my mechanics shop. 
When I first saw it, I copied the serial number down to call Singer. They
told me it was a model 15, and sent me a copy of the manual. When I had
the machine at home, I went over the pictures in the manual and compared
it to the machine I had. It did *not* match up. My mechanic said it was a
model 66. Who was I to trust? Called Singer again, they said again it was
a 15. They did send me a manual for the 66, brought it in to the mechanic,
and it matched with the machine. So, moral of the story, somehow the info
was, and can be wrong. I have a (supposedly) model 127, and someday will
order the manual so I can compare it. I did print out the info off of the
web page (don't remember whose at the moment), and will try to see if it
is a 127.

I'm wondering how the info came to be incorrect...

Nancy
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