Historical information

This sewing machine screwdriver likely belonged to Ruby May Selina Wallace (1891-1973) of Inglewood, Victoria. It was donated by an Emerald resident. Several items of clothing owned by Ruby or her mother Ellen Dowsett (1858-1953) are also in the Emerald and District Museum collection; the sewing machine associated with this screwdriver likely played a part in the maintenance, repair and possible creation of several of those items. Sewing machine screwdrivers are still used in the operation and repair of modern sewing machines, but it is rare to find bent wire versions like this item, which was also designed for an older model of sewing machine.

Significance

This tool is representative of the processes of making and maintaining clothes in early 20th century domestic life, is no longer in common manufacture in this form, and was involved in the creation of several items in the collection.

Physical description

This screwdriver made of bent metal wire consists of a loop (ideal for holding during operation), a shaft bent in a rounded right angle, and a flat head pointing perpendicular to the direction of the loop. The right angle allows for more turning force to be applied through the head of the screwdriver than would be possible with a straight version, and makes it easier to access certain parts of the sewing machine.

Inscriptions & markings

N/A