Machine, Knitting Sewing
Lamb knitting machine used at Canterbury, NH
ca. 1899
Description
Lamb knitting machine. Wood-handled crank with spring around shaft, which goes through two wheels set side by side with the one closer to crank has a curved u-shaped guide. Shaft connected by rubber belt to gear below which turns two grooved drums set with in frame. Crank propels the drums and two gears at either end connected by chain. Second set of gears moves an arm around, which is attached to cast iron plate which has two brass dials. Plate has integral arm which connects it to another plate with brass dials. These plates sit atop a pentagonal iron mechanism. Across angled faces are two rows of vertical slits within which are hook, guides, and knobs. Lever at front right. Front center is metal tray. Cast iron frame with curved legs painted blue-green. Plates, tray and other parts are painted black.
Notes
According to information provided by the Shakers, the machine was purchased by the Canterbury, NH community in 1899 for knitting sleeves, and special attachments were made to use it. They were used to make sweaters.
New Hampshire Canterbury
