Summary
Manual Frister and Rossmann sewing machine, used in a mental health hospital, Victoria, Australia, circa 1905.
Physical Description
It is a manual machine which has a black body which is ornately decorated with gold leaf. Across the top `bridge' of the machine are the words `Frister and Rossmann', and on the side of the body is an embossed name plate. The wheel is turned by a crank, the handle of which is an off-white porcelain. The metal base also has inscribed the words - "TRADE MARK BERLIN". Around the metal base of the machine is a laminated, dark brown wood surround.
Significance
Example of sewing equipment used in Victorian mental health hospitals
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Office of Psychiatric Services, May 1985
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Manufacturer
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Place & Date Used
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Inscriptions
Stencilled across top bridge of machine : "FRISTER & ROSSMANN". Stencilled on base "Trade Mark Berlin." Sole agents: W. Piersson, 49 Fore St., London E.C.
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Classification
Medicine & health, Mental health - occupational therapy, Tools & equipment
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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overall dimensions
26 cm (Length), 28 cm (Width), 48.5 cm (Height)
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References
Oral history: Dr E.C. Dax, 4.3.1992
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Keywords
Occupational Therapy, Psychiatric Hospitals, Recreation, Sewing Machines, Making History - Psych Services