However it’s a little-known fact that treatments for special needs children/adults were actually quite homelike and humane in the mid-19th century, and actually grew less individualized in the first half of the 20th century. An excellent book on the subject is “Inventing the Feeble Mind: A History of Mental Retardation in the United States” by James W. Trent.

This book is fascinating, for me primarily because in reading about how American society and culture reacted to this cohort of people over time one gains insight about changing attitudes towards marginalized populations. It’s very informative on a number of levels.

Described as follows: [link]

Round Wooden Triumph Sewing Machine
This scarce sewing machines features one of the most unusual and graphic designs that was ever thought up! It is believed to have been manufactured by the Foley & Williams Co. and is simply marked “Patent Appld For”. The unusual round body is all wood with a metal backing plate, and the body was designed with a small section of frame that could be removed while sewing to allow the fabric to pass through, then replaced when not in use to keep it stable. These machines are seldom found and rarely offered for sale, and because of their age, design and material they are generally found incomplete and in worn condition. This example is 100% complete with all of it’s original parts, including the removable section and its retaining pin. You will be proud to display this example along with your other “top-shelf” small sewing machines.

Good + ….. $1650.00 SOLD