This Cumberland Sewing Machine in many ways represents the world of Henrietta Gardner, Reverend Matt’s wife. Known as Ritta to her friends, some of the most prized possessions of the Gardner family are the textiles that Ritta sewed for her family. A sundress and a number of extraordinary quilts are just some of the items Ritta made that have survived to today. While many of the quilts are hand-sewn, this sewing machine saw lots of use. As the lady of the house Ritta was in charge of making sure the family had blankets to keep them warm, clothes to wear every day, and that nothing was torn or damaged. A red needlecase also survives.
Singer Manufacturing Company’s introduction of their patented sewing machine in the mid-19th century changed the working lives of women in the home. Although Singer was a very popular brand, this sewing machine was made by the Columbia Sewing Machine Company in Cumberland County, Tennessee.
