Historical information

This foot-powered treadle machine could be used to manually operate many devices such as a sewing machine or spinning wheel. Treadle machines were used to power sewing machines, dental drills, lathes, spinning wheels and saws
The machine is mounted on a board to demonstrate treadle operation.

Significance

This mounted, smoothly working treadle machine demonstrates the treadle mechanism that was used in the early 20th century to power mechanical devices and in turn to save time, energy and money. The treadle was used in domestic and industrial environments.
The Collection at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village has two treadle-operated dentist's drills, a treadle sewing machine, a saw, a lathe and a treadle paper numbering machine.

Physical description

Treadle-powered machine; a black painted metal wheel with four curved spokes, connected to a wooden treadle. The height of the wheel is adjustable. The mechanical device is mounted on a thick rectangular wooden block. The working treadle mechanism turns smoothly.