Looking for more info on and Improved Columbian
#1
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Join Date: Nov 2015
Posts: 18
Looking for more info on and Improved Columbian
I found this machine on one of the auction sites and do not seem to be able to find much more info on it. I think it was made by the Chicago Sewing Machine Company, but I do not have any specific time frame. From the photos, I am going to guess that the treadle case that it is sitting on is not the original case (because the head is pulled out and still has the hinges attached). I have found several other sites that have photos, but no additional history. The current price at the site is not very high and it is close enough that I could drive to pick it up, just not sure if it is the one for the first treadle in the herd position.
Ken
Ken
#2
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Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Millville, NJ
Posts: 1,835
Hi Ken,
You have pictured a Free Vibrating shuttle sewing machine. A more specific model can be found in Needlebar website: http://needlebar.org/cm/thumbnails.php?album=298&page=1
Good chance the cabinet goes to the head. I have a similar Free machine that uses 15x1 needles and a pretty unique shuttle that would be difficult to replace. Sort of looks like the spring on top of the arm is broken which might present a problem replacing.
Probably not an ideal first treadle sewing machine for use. How's the Singer next to it look?
Jon
You have pictured a Free Vibrating shuttle sewing machine. A more specific model can be found in Needlebar website: http://needlebar.org/cm/thumbnails.php?album=298&page=1
Good chance the cabinet goes to the head. I have a similar Free machine that uses 15x1 needles and a pretty unique shuttle that would be difficult to replace. Sort of looks like the spring on top of the arm is broken which might present a problem replacing.
Probably not an ideal first treadle sewing machine for use. How's the Singer next to it look?
Jon
Last edited by jlhmnj; 01-11-2016 at 06:59 PM.
#6
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Centralia, WA, USA
Posts: 4,890
The Singer is a really good example of the Sphinx decals. The Improved Columbian is a really neat machine but will take some effort to fix the veneer on the treadle cabinet.
It will be a fairly unique machine when done though.
Get both?
Rodney
It will be a fairly unique machine when done though.
Get both?
Rodney
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