I answered a freecycle ad that said
"Small black Singer portable electric sewing machine with foot pedal - from 1940s, with instruction booklet, in black carrying case."
BUT, the ad was already six hours old and I was told it had been claimed. What a great surprise to open my email today and find that the person never showed up, so I could have it.
I ran over there (20 miles away) and it turned out to be a Featherweight 221-1!! The case is not musty, just dusty, and the machine itself just has scratches on the bed. However, it appeared the motor had seized. I oiled it and that didn't help.
So, I got out the flashlight and magnifying glass and found some strong black thread stuck in the bobbin racer. Took almost an hour to get it out (thank goodness for tiny exacto knives!), and once it was out.....she works great! It came with all attachments and the original manual.
Now to name her. I'm thinking Freida sounds about right.
Last week, I bought a machine in a sewing table for $10 on Craig's list and it turned out to be a Singer 66-16 in great condition with all attachments and manual.
Now to find a Singer 301 and I will have all I have been looking for.
Diane