What year the first tan featherweight was produced? I can find information about the black ones as well as the white (pale turquoise) but have not found a lot of information about the tan ones. Thanks in advance for your generous insights.

have you tried the Vintage Machine thread? A lot of smart people there...

Here's a link for the VMS

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-43881-1.htm

Am sure someone there can help you.