Lot 14: Wheeler and Wilson Manufacturing Co No 1 Ring Frame Sewing Machine
An antique hand-crank sewing machine produced by the Wheeler and Wilson Manufacturing Co. This machine features a distinctive circular ring frame constructed from cast iron with a black enamel finish, mounted upon a rectangular wooden base. The identification is confirmed by embossed lettering on the circular base plate of the arm, which reads WHEELER & WILSON MFG CO BRIDGEPORT CONN U.S.A. The hand-wheel is fitted with a wooden crank handle and decorated with two polychrome decals featuring a red and green geometric star pattern with a central letter W. The mechanism includes an exposed drive shaft, needle bar assembly, and brass adjustment components. A spool of white thread remains on the spool pin. The unit is designed with a flat needle plate and a heavy cast iron construction typical of mid-to-late 19th-century industrial and domestic machines.
Condition report:
The item shows significant evidence of age and historical use. There is widespread surface oxidation and pitting on the unpainted metal components, particularly the needle plate and the drive shaft. The black enamel finish exhibits wear, scratches, and various chips, and the decorative decals on the hand-wheel show signs of degradation. Dust and grime have accumulated within the mechanical parts. The wooden base displays scratches, loss of finish, and wear consistent with its age. The mechanical functionality of the machine has not been tested.
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