After 1850, many of the gun making machines were retooled to make sewing machines, such as Edwin Clark's Revolving Looper, made by Lamson, Goodnow and Company. Many of the earliest sewing machines in the collection are extremely simple and entirely functional. Later machines, built after the mechanical technology improved, are beautifully crafted. Painted trim, mother-of-pearl inlays and manufacturers' medallions decorate the machines, which are mounted in carefully crafted wooden cases. The major manufacturers represented in the collection are Howe, Singer, and Willcox & Gibbs.

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