It was some 20 yr. old's great-grandma's machine and I thought that kid is so going to regret selling this someday. Thanks for the electric cord tip, Rodney. The CL ad said it's a 1938 but my DS hasn't sent me the serial numbers or any information. I couldn't get my son near a sewing machine or needle & thread. I guess it just takes the right machine. Now when his messenger bag or backpack strap breaks, he can mend it himself. This machine looks like it can handle just about anything. WooHoo!