Isn't it funny how as machines got more technically sophisticated over the years, the throat area got smaller? I am so glad to see that machines are now being made with larger areas for quilting.

Agreed, got to love them! I have an old 1951 singer, 99k. When I get a chance, I plan to get a 301 and a treadle yet!

I like vintage machines as well as the new ones.

I love this group! I just received an old Singer in a cabinet from my son who was moving and needed to get rid of it. He thought it was an empty cabinet!

I'm not entirely sure where in my house it will live, but I will find a corner. Now I'm going to go open it and get back to you on what model it is. All I know so far is that it is one of the pinky beige ones.

I got my grandma's 201 when she passed away...she used it for over 50 years...and it still works like a charm.

My 201 was originally a hand crank, I like it much better as a treadle machine. The quietest machine I've ever used.
You can see a picture of it on page 2.

Have any of you checked online to find the belts you need? Of course you should check with your Singer dealer, too. One other idea is to go to an old (and old-fashioned) hardware store. They used to carry sewing machine parts and some still have parts for the older machines. There's one in Opelousas that has just the biggest mix of things for the home. I've gotten all sorts of replacement parts for things like the meat grinder, pressure cooker, window hardware, etc. If nothing else, they may be able to tell you where you can find the item. They've been in business since 1878! Imagine that.
Here's the info in case you want to contact them:
J.B. Sandoz Store
312 North Main Street
Opelousas, LA 70570
337-942-3564

I saw treadle belts in either Nancy's Notions or Clothildes.

I have several, well almost many, old machines.. I love them all.. Every single one is a dream to sew on.. they all make beautiful stitches and the sound of their stitching is as good as any bubbling brook. I would have to go down to the basement to actually count how many I have down there. Most have been given to me. I rotate around, using one and then another.. Some day I'll have to downsize, but right now I have a bunch and I use them all.. or I get a group of friends together and we all choose a machine and sew the day away.. so much fun!!