What do I come across most often when searching for unique old objects? Clocks and sewing machines—without a doubt. And these are two pieces of technology that I prefer to leave to specialists when it comes to repairs, so I’ve skipped them until now. After all, my goal is to give objects a place in today’s world again, preferably a functional, not just a decorative one. Recently, a good friend asked me to take a look at a well-functioning (hooray!) Singer, and the time was right for a deep dive into the fascinating history of this company! We’re talking about the Singer Corporation, established in 1851 as I.M. Singer & Co. Let’s go!
Isaac Singer (1811-1875) was the company’s founder. He started his career as a traveling actor. When there wasn’t much to earn in the arts, he worked as a laborer, including on the Illinois and Michigan Canal. To make digging easier, he designed a rock drilling machine, for which he received a patent in 1839. This invention brought him a significant sum of money, which he used to return to acting. In 1849, he designed a letter-cutting machine. Later, in Boston, he rented part of a workshop to develop the prototype. His landlord and fellow workshop user, Orson Phelps, was building sewing machines there. Singer improved the sewing machine, and the Singer Sewing Machine was born.
Various Wikipedia pages taught me a lot about the history of the Singer sewing machine. Digging a little deeper, I found someone who has studied not only the history but also the different types and technical aspects of this remarkable device: Erik Neek – YouTube. Very useful, as millions (!) of these machines have been made in many different types. Erik’s information offers a treasure trove of perspectives to describe the Singer: the history of garment-making since the Industrial Revolution, Singer workshops in towns and cities across multiple countries, the company’s development up to today, the technical evolution of historical machines, and even the differences and similarities in the roles of men and women in tailoring.
In short: too much to cover here! But I’m happy to share the details of this individual, fully functional machine. Its serial number Y 986 4919 reveals that it is a type 28K, made in 1935. What makes this beautifully decorated Singer special is the completeness of its accessories—only the key is missing. We hope this sewing machine celebrates its 100th birthday in a place where it is both admired and used!
€250
