Too many sewing machines. Is it intervention time? Probably

I'm not going to list all my sewing machines here.  Suffice it to say that there are more old computers in DH's office than sewing machines in my quilt studio.  But there are a lot of sewing machines!

This evening yet another one was added to the collection.  A 1903 Singer crank sewing machine with vibrating shuttle.  An impulse buy.  But what a find.  She's beautiful!

Unfortunately the machine was dropped recently when being moved from one place to another.  A thread guide broke off.  But DH has already added a temporary guide until we can order a replacement piece.

This is another amazing machine.  The couple we bought it from had no idea when it was last used or oiled.  It had been in their home for 8-9 years and prior to that in a parent's basement.  They had never seen the parent use it.  They have no idea of how it came to be in their family.  I'd love to know it's personal history.

As soon as we turned the crank, the machine worked flawlessly.  With no cleaning or oiling!

Top right of metal plate is where the thread guide broke off.

 Front of machine

 Crank

 Top view

Back of machine

The people we bought this machine from were wondering why we made sure the crank would turn and the feed dogs moved.  They had assumed that the machine wouldn't be put to use.  In fact they didn't realize it could be used.  I'm sure they thought we were crazy when we started talking about how many layers of fabric this baby could sew through compared to the newer domestic machines. 

Now to figure away I can get this beauty to the local quilt shop for classes and volunteer sewing.  She is not light.  Hmmmm....a modified stroller perhaps? 

There is always an issue with not enough electrical plugs in classrooms.  It would certainly be a solution  I'll have to take it to class at least once, just for the reactions I'd get.