Summary
Treadle Singer sewing machine used in a mental health hospital, Victoria, Australia, circa 1925.
Physical Description
Treadle sewing machine (31-20) on cast iron stand which consists mainly of 2 curved grillwork ends which taper slightly toward top and have markedly concave sides. Connected by H-shaped piece across centre. Large flywheel, operated by square treadle close to floor is attached to righthand stand-end. Leather fly-belt connects to operating wheel on machine. Machine is set in wooden table top which is screwed to top of stand. Has 1 small drawer under front left-hand side, (inside are 4 bobbins).Table has hinged leaves at back and on lefthand end. Small brass subsidiary cog-wheel screwed to front, right corner of table which can be tilted to connect with flybelt where it emerges through hole in table.
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, 05 Aug 1985
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Manufacturer
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Place & Date Used
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Inscriptions
"Singer" painted in gold across back of machine; G1272478; 31-20 PATENTED U.S.A May 1, 1894; Apr 7, 1896; Feb 21, 1899"
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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
98 cm (Length), 50 cm (Width), 101 cm (Height)
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References
card with exhibit.
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Keywords
Occupational Therapy, Psychiatric Services, Recreation, Sewing Machines, Making History - Psych Services
