“Little Nell” – Toy Sewing Machine

There is some confusion about this item at Smith’s Tavern:  is it a patent model of an actual sewing machine or a toy sewing machine.  Our research into whether or not this is a patent model was unsuccessful.

 

There are some markings on the metal base of the machine - “Little Nell”.  Our research into a “Little Nell” toy sewing machine resulted in references to a children’s story by Charles Dickens called “Old Curiosity-Shop” with a character named Little Nell.  Maybe this toy was part of a collection of Little Nell-inspired toys.  

 

If anyone does know more about this type of device, please email the Historical Society with this much needed information.

 

Reference:  https://archive.org/stream/cu31924014497220/cu31924014497220_djvu.txt

Catalog Items:

Item T65

Location:	Panel 7
Length:	19 cm
Width:	10 cm
Height:	11 cm
Weight:	416 g