Originally Posted by irishrose
Phone call #2 - A Singer treadle from the 1930s. The owner says it says Leader on it. "Does it work?"
10 minutes later - the pictures arrived. It has the tension on the top, which is a minus to me, but the cabinet and machine look to be in good condition, though I wonder why the top isn't down in the pics. Internet: Leader machines were made by the A G Mason company from 1870-1899. Interesting - worth a roadtrip? I haven't heard from the third one, but a $25 machine may be too much of a project for me. How does the top tension thread?
How does the top tension thread? Easily once you have the directions. I have an Alvah very much like this. This one looks MUCH better than mine too. Mine was up and running (after sitting in an attic then basement for 20+ yrs.) after a clean up of the front section works, feed dogs, and a good oiling. If this were near me, I'd snatch it up in a heartbeat. My treadle sews a straighter stitch than my New Home 6000.
If you are interested in more info. Send me a PM. I wish you success.