Here's a start.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brother_Industries

Technically they weren't Brother back in 1908, in 1954 they became Yasui Sewing Machine Co's US affiliate. Then in 1962 it looks like it all became one conglomerate.

My favorite piece of trivia is that the Necchi Mirella is the only sewing machine in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in NYC.

http://necchi-usa.com/about

http://www.moma.org/collection/artis...artist_id=4316

http://www.moma.org/collection/brows...1&sort_order=1

Tammi,

Depending on how long your talk is - get the participants involved. At some point, let them turn to their neighbour for a few memories and share any memories of the machine they first sewed on etc. It often gets the arms to uncross and sets a tone for a 2 way conversation and more questions. IMO.

well, that explains why there is no mention of "Brother" in the books on Early American sewing machines.

I remember reading that, yes :) It's a lovely looking machine.

Great point! I know the crossed arms is a hard one for the presenter to take, and I do want the interaction for sure.

Because they weren't Brother in the Early American history, or because they were a Japanese company? ;)

Did you know that June 13th is "Sewing Machine Day?"

That's it. We're having a party.

Because they are a Japaneses Company

At this point, I'm concentrating on late 1800 - early 1900 American made machines for collecting. Gotta draw the line somewhere (or buy a much bigger house LOL!!)

B.Y.O.B.? Bring your own bobbin?

CD in Oklahoma