AntiqBuyer.com Salesman Sample / Patent Model Washer Sales Archive

This is just a sample of the many antique salesman sample and Patent Models we have sold.
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Lutz Salesman Sample Washing Machine We bought this antique salesman sample washing machine at the Atlantic City Antique Show a while back, an antique show which we use to do. It is in near mint condition and was a welcome addition to the collection. It is interesting to note just how many different versions / variations of these salesman samples and patent models of washing machines and other laundry devices that there are. There must have been a very strong market after the Civil War and into the turn of the last century for so many to have been made and to have survived. It would make one wonder just what the early housewife used to do before these marvels were introduced, and not wonder at all at how she must have rejoiced when Maytag came on the scene with its new- fangled approach to this age old problem!

Good + . . . . . $2795.00 SOLD

Rocker Style Salesman Sample / Toy Washing Machine / Washer This is a great looking early salesman sample / toy washing machine that dates from near the turn of the century or before from the construction details and style of the agitators. Washers like this had their heyday beginning in the `1880's and were made right up till the depression and WWII for some rural markets.

It is unmarked, and I do not see any indication that it ever was. The red wash finish looks good. The agitators in both the bottom and on the rocker portion are very primitive and interesting looking. It also has an unusual spring loaded feature to help hold the rocker in place and allowing it to rise as you loaded in more clothes. Different and interesting!!

Good .. . . $395.00 SOLD

1873 Patent Model Washing Machine Thomas Kiff of Cincinnati Ohio was granted a patent for his washing machine on August 26th 1873. The patent number is 142,242. The patent will come up with a Google search. This model came from the Mr. & Mrs. O. Rundell Gilbert collection and has the original Patent Office tag that is chipped.

This model has a few issues. One leg has been repaired. The wire and bolt to hold it in place is a replacement. The crank to turn the inner drum is missing. Finally it looks like some rollers are missing inside the 1/2 drum if the drawing is to be trusted. A restorable project.

Fair - . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!

1868 Patent Model Wringing / Washing Machine Washboard George Kitz of Henrietta NY was granted a patent for his washing machine wringer on April 21 - 1868. The patent number is 76,924. The patent will come up with a Google search. This model came from the Mr. & Mrs. O. Rundell Gilbert collection and has the original Patent Office tag that is chipped worn and faded.

This small patent model measures approx. 4" square. The patent image calls for this to be used with a large typical looking washboard. This smaller version of what looks like a washboard in its own right would be attached to the larger washboard with a flexible or articulated arm and swung back and forth as the rubber, or wringer against the large washboard. It is likely that this, the smaller board / washer, was all he submitted for the patent. It is interesting that it appears to have seen heavy use / testing. Different!! .

Fair . . . . . . $100.00 SOLD!!

Primitive Washing Machine Patent Model / Salesman Sample There is no patent tag with this one, but there is little doubt in my mind what it is or was intended as. And as with many patent models from this era and their inventors, this fellow had a lot of time, energy, and imagination but came up a bit short in the common sense design division. The action is great---turn the main wheel on the outside and once you get it going what you have is one of the noisiest up and down and back and forth rocking contraptions ever imagined. All at once you would have a large corrugated laundry pounder scrubbing and pounding the cloth clean on the end of the large articulated arm, while just behind that, going up and down at the same time, was the suds-making agitator / plunger. And to top it off, the tub is rocked back and forth and up and down by another mechanical arm which operated from underneath at the same time. This fellow's friends and advisors for this project must have been real dreamers or worse, as it is such a wildly stupid idea that it never had a hope of getting into production, much less into the wife's laundry room. Give me a Maytag she said!

Good + . . . . . $2495.00 SOLD

The Queen Salesman Sample Washing Machine It is very exciting when you get a super original piece like the washer on the left in condition this nice. They are rarely seen and even more rarely offered for sale, but we just got this wonderful piece this spring. The detail and execution are superb, and the removable agitator in the center was certain to have been a prime selling feature when the traveling salesman was displaying this device to the new potential customer. I am going to show you another picture of a similar washer, on the right, that is basically the same size and design, but when looked at side by side it is easy to see why one would be excited by this and also graphically demonstrates the differences between what I consider a toy, and the overall value and beauty in a true salesman sample. Both are nice, but I paid 8 times the amount for the one on the left that I did for the second one.

Queen Washer . . . . Left . . . Good + . . . . . $1295.00 SOLD

Toy Washer . . . . .Good + . . . . . $295.00 SOLD

The Kooks Washer This particular example is unmarked and may even have been made as a toy, but given the degree of detail and the quality of workmanship I am going to call it a salesman sample. I saw a similar one offered on eBay awhile back that someone had put something that looked like a stove pipe cover in the top and since the writing was in German and it was a bit rusty nobody could tell exactly what it said. We acquired this washer at a meeting / show aimed at Kitchen Collectibles put on by the club known as Kooks.

Good + . . . . . $1295.00 SOLD

Salesman Sample Tiger Eye Maple & Mahogany Washing Machine I am not sure exactly why this super model of a washing machine was made. It is a bit larger than most patent models at 14" long, but I have seen oversized ones before, so...... Or perhaps it was just the inventors working model as he was designing his invention and preparing to make the larger version. It does not have the look or feel of a toy, so the final possibility is that it is a salesman sample of a full size model that was produced back when by the inventor in preparation of the marketing phase of his endeavor, when salesmen would carry a model from town to town trying to interest the buyers in the general stores, or just the general public. I have seen an identical one in much lesser condition with the end stamped "Patent Pending By J. Potts & Sons" and can not explain why this one that is in near mint condition would be unmarked. The choices of fine woods and the use of birds-eye maple for all of the supports, legs and mechanical arms certainly give it a flair and sense that it would not have had with the use of lesser soft woods. The mahogany body has the look and feel that many of the patent models from the mid to late 1800's had. It has great action as well, allowing for both back and forth and up and down at the same time of the moveable portions. It also has a provision for the water to go through the slats in the bottom to further agitate and suds up the water for the perfect washing effect. All in all a very advanced design and undoubtedly constructed with pride and a greater sense. It was sure to have impressed those it was shown to back then as well as those who get to view it today.

Good + . . . . . $695.00 SOLD

Antique Salesman Sample of a Wash Tub / Wringer Bench This antique salesman sample washstand / wringer has incredible eye appeal That is a quarter in the picture to give you a sense of the scale of this diminutive piece of Americana. Amazingly constructed to look just like the real thing, this small size laundry bench would have sat as a display on the store countertop or in the general store window, or they were carried around door-to-door by the salesman to show the prospective buyer exactly what the full-size bench would look like. All of course with the intention to convince them to buy one. Take a look at all the details and at the super condition of the stenciling and lettering. Note how it folds up and extends out, just like the real one. Included with this antique sample are the two little galvanized wash tubs you see in the photos as well as the sample-size new old stock package of Gold Dust washing powder. This is a super piece of early Americana!

Good + . . . . . $1495.00 SOLD Current value . . . . $500.00 - 1000.00

Antique E. Gately & Co. Salesman Sample of a Wash Tub / Wringer Bench To give you a sense of the scale of this diminutive piece of Americana there is a clear ruler at the base in the foreground. Amazingly constructed to look just like the real full size wash stand / wringer, this miniature size laundry bench would have sat as a display on the store countertop or in the general store window, or would have been carried around door-to-door by the salesman to show the prospective buyer exactly what the full-size bench would look like.

Take a look at all the details and at the nice condition of the stenciling and lettering. This example is by the E. Gately Co. of Boston. From the side we can see that it was called the Folding Mascott Wringer / Bench. I believe they were predecessors of the Anchor Horseshoe company who were the leaders in the field of wringers and wash stands during the late 19th century and later. I have seen this same style sample with their name and logos several times, but his is the first I have ever seen by Gately.

Note how it folds up and extends out on both sides just like the real ones you can find. The wringer portion still works and it is marked at the top that this is a model of the # B size wringer. Note also the neat heart shaped thumbscrews on top of the wringer. The one apology is a sliver of wood missing on the top right hand side. This is a super piece of early Americana and they make for great displays in special settings, or with special miniatures displayed on or near them!

Good + . . . . . $1695.00 SOLD Current value . . . . $500.00 - 1000.00

Antique Salesman Sample Wash Tub / Wringer Bench This one has some leg damage and old repair. Priced accordingly.

Good + . . . . . $895.00 SOLD Current value . . . . $500.00 - 1000.00

Patent Model Wash Boiler Agitator Interesting.

Good + . . . . . $175.00 SOLD

Salesman Sample Washing Machine / Washer It has been refinished but is very nice. Interesting.

Good + . . . . . $395.00 SOLD

H. Lighty Patent Model Washing Machine This well-constructed and interested model is made of mahogany.

Good + . . . . . SOLD Current value . . . . $500.00 - 1500.00

1871 Crockett Patent Model Washing Machine This is a thumper style. Beat the dirt out.

Good + . . . . . SOLD Current value . . . . $500.00 - 1000.00

A. H. Calkins July 15, 1876 Patent Model of Washing Machine This well-constructed and interested model is made of mahogany and illustrates Mr. Calkins' idea for an improvement on the typical wringer device commonly seen over the wash bucket. His idea incorporates a spring loaded roller affair overtop of the fluted main roller, which I assume the lady of the house would run the dirty wet clothes through to loosen up the dirt. Oftentimes models like this are considered to be incomplete, but the fact is that only that part of the invention for which the patent was being drawn was usually submitted. It is not improper that the wash bucket and holder for this device are not present. The remains of the original receiving tag are here and there is writing on the cross bar identifying it as well. There is a second set of rollers included that I believe are just a replacement for the set that are in place. There is no provision for both to be incorporated or used at the same time.

Good + . . . . .$495.00 SOLD

1878 Patent Model of Washing Machine Here is another patent model that dramatically shows where America was 125 years ago, and that was out in the laundry Room doing the chores, certainly not sitting in front of a computer or the tube. We have about a dozen or so of these models of our own, and we have seen dozens of others that were designed and submitted during this expansive time in America's history. I find it amazing that life was so simplistic, and yet as evidenced by this model, and all the other inventions of the day, just how complicated and thoughtful these fellows were about making improvements in the lives of their fellow man. I look at these models and the statements they make from a hundred years ago, and it just seems so different and remote from the types of things that we are exposed to today. What model mouse are they selling this year, or what is the latest in toothbrush technology? This model was done by a Mr. J. F. Pond of Cleveland Ohio. What looks to be a rather simplistic and boring mangle style washer is in reality a quite complicated and interesting invention. Not only are there 2 bottom rollers instead of the typical one, they are suspended and floating, being held in place by the 4 springs that you can see at the edges. They have the ability to rock and oscillate as Mr. Pond put it, and even more important, and this is what it seems the patent is actually for, Mr. Pond has incorporated a clutch mechanism into the design that is activated by hitting the lever that the crank goes through. I wonder if they just granted this one, or if they asked Pond why he felt it needed a clutch? This is all explained on the small tag that is included and is in one piece, but has a crease, and the original tag is here also but it is in two pieces, but still readable. Different / One of a Kind, and there isn't another one out there, so stop looking!

Good + . . . . .$1295.00 SOLD

Feb. 24th 1879 Patent Model of Washing Machine & Tub by W. K. Taylor This is a very nice looking Patent Model. Research has shown that what we really have here is a marriage of an original tagged Patent Model and a replaced wringer mechanism. This model carries not only its original patent tags with the pink ribbon, but also the receiving tag on the side of the tub that authenticates that his is the original model that was submitted to the patent office for this new and wonderful idea back in 1875. The bad news is the the wringer portion of this model must have been lost sometime in the past and that the one now attached to the tub is a later replacement that although similar to the drawings does not match them. I bought this model at auction this way, and that is the way it is going to be sold, a good representation, but not the complete original model that matches the drawings.

Good + . . . . .$695.00 SOLD

Salesman Sample / Patent Model or Toy Wooden Washing Machine Over the years I have owned and sold dozens of toy child size washers, including a number of Patent model washers. I have had ones very similar to this example, but never this exact same configuration. It has a few differences which lead me to believe it is a model or salesman sample rather than just a toy.

The first difference is the quality of the hinges and fittings. They are castings rather than just stamped steel or plain brass hinges. It is the same for the way the base was made. The typical model has little fittings the legs slide into, not this removable triangular base with cast metal corners. The top gear mechanism is also different and more detailed than the more typical and common toy washers you do see. It to has cast parts.

Looking inside another difference I see is the set-up for the agitator. The typical toy has only four pegs while this one has 6. And lastly is the way the inside and bottom are machined with ridges just like a full size washer would have been. And probably a feature not called for in a toy. An interesting note is that there is evidence of this having been tested and used with soap residue in the cracks.

Ok, now with all of that being said I believe this is either a patent model, or a salesman sample as opposed to a toy. I can not prove that, but it is just too nice, and too detailed to be just a toy. Very Nice, and a super display piece!!

Good + . . . . .$795.00 SOLD

Child-Size Mechanical "KiddieWasher" This great little washer, complete with its wringer, is marked pat applied for. Standing about 14" tall it undoubtedly was meant to teach a child to launder her doll clothes. Wind it up and the tub agitates back and forth in its stand to a rhythm reminiscent of a cradle rocking to a lullaby!

Good + . . . . .$495.00 SOLD

Salesman Sample Washer / Kitchen Table This is nicely done. It is European / German I believe and demonstrates the need for multiple use appliances for use in tight quarters. Kind of neat!

Good + . . . . . SOLD

Horse Shoe Brand Salesman Sample / Toy Washer / Wringer by American Wringer Co. This is nicely done. Kind of neat!

Good + . . . . .$95.00 SOLD

Child's "Excelsior" Toy Washer / Wringer / Washboard If you like the look of country antiques with original paint, this great toy washing set is sure to fit the bill. Certainly the child that it belonged to must have thought herself quite grown-up and helpful using the same type of laundry devices as her Mom. The set consists of a folding wooden box, with original red paint and decorative black stenciling, which opens up to make into the wash tub and bench. Then it serves to store all the pieces inside when it is in the closed-up position. The tub itself is country-blue painted corrugated tin, which matches the tin on the accompanying little wooden washboard / scrub board. The wooden wringer has dowels on the bottom of the legs to set into the "bench" part and stand upright for use. This piece is simply yet thoughtfully constructed and has a really nice early country look. When opened up the tub and bench measure about 16 1/2" wide x 9" deep x 2 1/2" high. The washboard is about 7 1/2" tall and the wringer is just under 7" tall. It appears that the tub / bench unit originally had 4 removable round wooden "legs" which could have been inserted to stand it up a few inches off the table. These have gotten separated from the piece over the years, but could easily be replicated by using plain wooden dowels. The overall condition is very good with minor scuffs to the paint here and there and a little bit of surface corrosion on the tin parts. The set makes for a nice display to compliment a variety of antique collections.

Good + . . . . .$895.00 SOLD

Toy or Salesman Sample Wood Barrel Washing Machine This washing machine is a hard call as to whether it is a toy or a salesman sample. I had another version that is the same shape, basic size and basic design, but it had much more detail and there is information stenciled on it about the manufacturer and location. It is called the Queen. This model has some very specific details, ie. the brackets to hold the feet are nearly identical, but no name or other information and it is not the same overall quality by any means. Perhaps this can be explained by just different levels of quality in the actual product, and perhaps the Queen salesman also carried one of these around to show how inferior the competitions product was to theirs, much like the Kirby vacuum guy does today. In any case, this is in nice condition and shows some great patina and age to its old crusty surface.

Good + . . . . .$895.00 SOLD

Round Wooden Toy Columbia Washer When do you ever see these realistic and detailed mechanical toy washers anymore? This example came out of a large collection of ironing and laundry-related antiques that we purchased a few years ago. There were several versions of the Columbia washer, this being the model with the round barrel-design tub. Although many people refer to it as a salesman sample because it is so realistic, well-made, and almost replicates the style and design of many popular washing machines of the day, I believe that this was made as a toy and not a salesman sample. Perhaps they were used as displays in shops, but I doubt this was actually carried around as a sample by a salesman. In any case, it has great mechanical action with a horizontal and a vertical geared wheel on top operated by a lever which turns a 4-prong agitator inside the corrugated tub. The back and forth action of the gearing turns the agitator first clockwise, then counter-clockwise, etc. The tub has a diameter of about 11" and it stands just 11" from the bottom of the legs to the top of the barrel, not including the wheel. In practice it probably did the job of cleaning Dolly's clothes just as well as Mom's full-size one did for the family laundry!

Good + . . . . .$895.00 SOLD

1862 Patent Model of Washing Machine by John Phelps This idea for a washing machine was pretty involved and as noted by the design of the cabriole style legs probably not an idea that was developed out in the backcountry. Pre Civil War patent models are harder to come buy than some of the later ones and so this example is kind of special. I have not pulled the papers to read up on all of ideas this fellow had or where he was from, but I would bet that the furniture in his house had similar designed feet. ( Note that two of the feet do have some damage.) This model has more moving parts than many similar ones do, and has one great idea that many lesser designs never dealt with. Note at the bottom the rod that runs from the center to the outside leg with what appears to be a doughnut on it. This was meant to allow the entire rocker device in the center to ride up and down, and to be kind of spring loaded if you will to generate more action as the rocker moved over the clothes during operation. As can be seen in the pics the stepped washboards on the two ends were removable for either cleaning, or more likely for a genteel wash when the dainties were done. There is a different design handle on each side allowing you a range of choices depending on what part of your body you were looking to work out on that early Monday morning as well..

In any case this piece is in very nice condition and measures approx 8" x 11". It has its original tag, as well as the receiving tag, and a small brass plaque with the inventors name on it as well. This model will make a super piece to add to the collection or to the display of important laundry related devices.

Good + . . . . .$1295.00 SOLD

Salesman Sample "Wonder Washer" Patented 1904

Salesman Sample "The Three Minute Kind / Wonder Washer" Washing Machine This antique salesman sample washing machine is a wonderful piece of Americana and a graphic look back into the way it use to be. Just look at the new designs of Washing machines offered today and think what your Granny was faced with.

This washer has a look and presence to it with its colorful litho decorations that many of the other sample size washers simply do not have. I have seen several full size versions of this washer and all were very plain and with just a simple name "Wonder" stenciled onto the sides.

The sample size washing machine stands approx 16" tall w/ the stand, and is 12" square. It is the first one like it that I have seen or had, and I have had a lot of these sample size washers over the years. It is very similar in design to "The Dewey Washer", a washing machine I had a sample size of and sold a few years back. It is possible that the two companies were related in some way, with one buying out the other or trying a new advertising approach, or ........... I saw that sample size Dewey washer being appraised by Noel Barrett on the Antiques Roadshow a while back with the new owner making like she had just walked up on it at a garage sale or flea market, implying she gotten it for a song. I wondered if it was staged or .......... That example was nice, but it had almost no decoration other than the name Dewey, and it was not nearly as impressive looking as this one. It was appraised on the Roadshow for about what I am offering this one for.

The printed patent info of Jan 2 1904 on the label is wrong. It was actually patented on January 26th 1904, and that date it is a good match. The inventor's name was Elmer Victor Allen, and hence the Victor Mfg. Co. name. He actually hailed from Hiawatha, KS. which I bet was pretty close to Leavenworth. I could find nothing related to that name or a similar washer for the second date marked on the label. That could be explained any number of different ways and a bit more research would probably turn that patent up as well. The inside of the washer, and the agitator are set up just like the patent pictures, and it is clear that either the salesman, or his children, gave this washer a few test runs.

Take a look at all the details and construction of this washer. The tin tub lifts off of the stand whose turned legs are finished in old red paint and has X'd metal cross braces to help make it rigid. There is one apology at this point where the inside of one of the legs is chipped. It does not affect the way the tub sits in the stand, and would be a pretty simple and straight forward fix, but it is there. The top has a lot of original reddish brown finish remaining as well.

The applied litho /decal on two sides is really special. One side is better than the other, and the good side is about 90% very nice, and has good color. The other side is mostly there, but faded a bit, and there is some pencil marks throughout from a child no doubt being a child. It has all the information on it that anyone could need, but by far the best part is the way they did the name Wonder Washer using the W & R for both words, and then filling in the middle w/ the slogan "The Three Minute Kind" implying there a 10 or 20 minute model before this one and that this is the "New" improved model. A Great Piece!

Very Good . . . . . .$1095.00 SOLD!

1873 Patent Model of Washing Machine by Jacob Sheffler of Deslem IL This washing machine patent model has its original tag and is in a holder that I believe indicates it predates either O. Rundle Gilbert or Cliff Peterson two of the better known owners and sellers of the patent models sold by the government. After the US Patent Office sold their collection of models they changed hands several times and small amounts were sold off to finance each owners dreams of opening a museum. Some were sold from street corners in NY or even from Department stores like Macy's and the like.

This patent model is approx 6" wide x 5" or so tall. The patent was granted on July 8th 1873 and is number 140651. This model is a good match to the patent which can be viewed using Google Patents search for the number 140651.

The patent calls for the use of a standard wooden wash tub of the period that was to then be fitted with this questionably better idea to make your life easier and at the same time do a better job. It consisted of a bottom with rollers, the large roller with crank, and the center gizmo that was there to help the process along. I doubt it worked, did a good job or was even produced.. The gizmo itself eats up half or more of the given space in the tub just for starters. The idea was you held down on the lever to engage the gears with one hand, then turned the crank with the other hand. With your third had you were to manage the other disk like piece, and with your fourth you were to - - - - -

A great remembrance of how it use to be that would fit nicely in a display related to laundry and wash day chores.

The condition is excellent!! Best patent model washer I have had in years!!

Excellent. . . . . . $2495.00 SOLD!!

1885 Patent Model Washing Machine Kind of a wacky idea, and given the late date a bit primitive looking. A great remembrance of how it use to be that would fit nicely in a display related to laundry and wash day chores.

The condition is excellent!!

Excellent. . . . . .$695.00 SOLD!!

Salesman Sample Royal Washing Machine by Huenefeld Co. of Cincinnati OH This is a great looking salesman sample of an early washing machine that dates from near the turn of the century. The side is marked with the maker name Huenefeld, and the information that it is patented, but there is no date. It is in cosmetically great looking condition but does have an issue with the drive mechanism. A Google search turns of a series of patents that look like this washer issued to a fellow from Kentucky right around the turn of the century. It appears from looking at those patents that the connecting rod idea for the agitator motion is missing from this sample / example. Each of those patents show a connecting rod with a rotating eccentric mechanism between the large wheel and rocker arm coming up through the top. This one has a piece of wire connecting the two. I am not sure if this example predates the introduction of that piece, or more likely if the idea was flawed and it broke and was discarded when put to use. Those patent numbers are 730538, 760612, 843734 and 724431 if you care to see what I am talking about. Also one leg looks to be a nice replacement, and there is only one leg that has a roller wheel on it. All in all though, this is a great looking salesman sample washer in great overall condition that will be the highlight of the display in the wash or laundry room. Different and interesting!!

Good + . . . . . . .$1695.00 SOLD!!

1871 Patent Model of Washboard This idea for a washboard was granted to H. H. Bellows on May 30th 1871. His better idea for this washday necessity in the late 1800's was to make the scrub face not only corrugated, but to have a "wave or convex / concave surface with a flat valley thus obtaining a more forcible friction." Or so he states in his write-up. It is funny and interesting to note that by this period of time there were many other far more "advanced" ideas for washers being promoted, and that this idea seems to be a bit dated or backward, but then I suppose that I or we do not really know exactly what it was like living out in the woods or in the country back then, and just how far out of touch that last ten miles may have put you with news about the latest developments in washer technology. As an example where I live the local paper here was just recently touting the the introduction of the coming of electricity here.

Good + . . . . .$795.00 SOLD

1860 Patent Model of Yellow-ware / Bennington / Rockingham Washboard Here is a great example of a wonderful and graphic Patent Model of a Washboard. You never see the full size ones and I guarantee you will never see this one again as it is a one of.

Good . . . . .$795.00 SOLD

Antique Salesman Sample of a Wash Tub / Wringer Bench This antique salesman sample washstand / wringer is a wonderful piece of Americana. To give you a sense of the scale of this diminutive piece of Americana there is a clear ruler at the base in the foreground. Amazingly constructed to look just like the real full size wash stand / wringer. This miniature size laundry bench wringer would have sat as a display on the store countertop or in the general store window. It may have also been carried around door-to-door by salesmen to show the prospective buyer exactly what the full-size bench would look like.

Take a look at all the details and construction. I believe this was made by the Anchor Horseshoe company who were the leaders in the field of wringers and wash stands during the late 19th century and later. I have seen this same style sample with their name and logos several times but most of the writing has disappeared on this example.

Note how the table on each side folds up and extends out just like the full size ones. The wringer portion still works. Note also the primitive thumbscrews on top of the wringer.

Good . . . . . . SOLD!

Round Columbia Salesman Sample / Toy Washing Machine / Washer This is a great looking early salesman sample / toy washing machine that dates from near the turn of the century. These came in two different styles, round and square, and are pretty exact copies of the large full size washers that were produced. They were probably used as both display models in shops, and offered for sale as toys. All original and nice!!

Good + . . . .$595.00 SOLD!

Square Salesman Sample / Toy Columbia Washing Machine / Washer This is a nice looking early salesman sample / toy washing machine that dates from near the turn of the century. It is a copy of the large full size washers that were produced by the Benbow Mfg. Co. of St Louis Mo. These were probably used as both display models in shops, and offered for sale as toys. The wringer is a "GEM" buy the American Wringer Co. It looks as though the legs have been redone, and the stencil info on the side may have been enhanced where the makers name is miss-spelled on this example!!

Good . . . . $495.00 SOLD!

Salesman Sample / Patent Model Washing Machine This is a nice looking model of an early Washing Machine. It is either a Patent Model w/ no tags or an unmarked salesman sample. It is a bit of a mystery as to why there is no writing, patent info, maker name, etc. anywhere to be seen. It is a classic style washing machine whose basic design was first introduced back in the 1860's or so and continued in production into the first quarter of the 20th century.

The basic design of the washer is a 1/2 wooden barrel w/ 4 of the staves running past the bottom thus acting as the legs also. This was a popular design used by a number of different makers including Maytag back near the turn of the century. Some other brands with similar designs were White Rose, Munger, Ocean Wave, Horton, Bramer and others. While all those different brands used the same style wooden barrel container, each had a different style agitator or drive mechanism. It is interesting to note that all of the companies mentioned were either in Iowa or MO. I would bet Maytag of Newton Iowa bought out, or otherwise put most of them out of business before coming out on top. Now look at where they are.

This washers agitator mechanism and drive system are quite ingenious and different enough from others that this could well be a Patent Model. It is roughly the correct size as well. Figuring out the design of the gearing and gears, the agitator motion, drive shaft / crank design, and how to make it all work together, while not infringing upon a competitors patent / design would have been a challenge. In this case the design has a large flywheel which is driven by cranking a short stroke lever back and forth. This works well and is a good idea. The lever is attached to a crank shaft like rod that while turning the smaller gear wheel is also able to rotate the agitator back and forth. It is set up so that it allows the agitator to move up and down at the same time it is going back and forth. A good idea - - - simple, efficient and effective. In fact, it would seem to have several patentable ideas in the design.

The entire washer is uniform dark brown color, and I see no places where there ever was writing on the body. The auxiliary base measures 10" dia. Holes in the base indicate that this was a lamp at some point in the past. Close examination shows that the washer barrel was lightly restored. One short stave near the flywheel has been replaced, and some slack in the barrel was taken up with a tapered wedge. Both were stained to match the rest but are a few shades lighter. It stands just under 15" tall to the top of the handle w/ the lamp base. Nice, Different and interesting!!

Good + . . . . $795.00 SOLD!

Dexter Salesman Sample Washing Machine / Washer This is a great salesman sample washer. It is a true antique salesman sample and has a great look and action. The square-ish copper tub is constructed from a sheet of solid copper, with clipped and then formed corners, having nice details to the construction. The dasher / agitator inside is nickel plated and looks like a suction type plunge washer w/ vents and added agitators. Cutting edge technology for its time. The washing action is super when operated. Not only does it drive the agitator up and down, but through an ingenious ball and socket joint it also makes the agitator go back and forth to really stir things up. Look over all the pictures to see all the detail and features of this wonderful piece. There has been some minor repair to the wood along the top edge. It was well done. This is a good one!! Recommended!!

Good + . . . . $2495.00 SOLD!

Salesman Sample Wonder Washer Washing Machine

"Wonder Washer" Salesman Sample Washing Machine This is a nice looking example of this salesman sample washing machine. This better idea for washing clothes hails from Leavenworth KS and was manufactured by the Victor Mfg. Co. It is called the Wonder Washer, and the writing says it is the 3 minute kind. There are two patent dates above the name on the side of the washer from 1904 and 1907.

This one is on a low base I have not seen before. It would make it suitable for use on a table top. I have seen them on folding tall bases and without any base as with the one at the top of the page. A Google search turns up versions with and without bases, and I think that this washer was offered as either a stand alone on a wooden leg base, or as a table top washer with and without a base.

Overall, the condition is very nice, the decals and painted logo's on the side are nice but faded. The interior of the washer and the agitator are very nice. I have seen a few of these over the years, and it seems that a lot of salesman sample washers were put to the test given the wear and tear that many show. This one is no exception. Different and interesting!! A nice early display piece.!!

Good + . . . .$495.00 SOLD!

Barnard's Salesman Sample 20th Century Washing Machine This is a great looking salesman sample of an early washing machine that dates from near the turn of the century. The patent was granted in 1899 and the # is 6290024. It is viewable using Google Search. Mr. Barnard was forward thinking enough to name his invention the 20th Century, implying that his idea was way ahead of its time.

An interesting idea in the design is the soap holder / dispenser built into the upper arm which the operator pushed back and forth to wash the clothes. The patent gives very detailed instructions on the proper operation, including how to activate and preserve the soap in the upper container by using the proper technique.

This model is much larger than most sample size washers. It is close to 20" long and stands almost 14" tall on its turned spindle legs. There is an early repair to one leg which I have pictured. The stencils on both sides with the maker name and patent info are in excellent condition. This salesman sample washer has a very commanding look to it when on display. In addition to the patent info the location of Toledo, Ohio is given. Part of the lower rubber portion that sat in the bottom of the washer has been restored and is a good representation of the patent illustration / drawing. This piece was designed to be removed so you could clean the dirt catching area after washing a load of clothes and to make room for the handle to store better when not in use. All of the rest of this rare salesman sample washer is original and in good condition.

I recently saw a current auction result out of Indiana for this exact same washer, in lesser condition, and missing the part I just mentioned for just under 4K Don't let this one get away. Different and interesting!!

Good + . . . . . . . $1895.00 SOLD!

1868 Patent Model of Washing Machine by Levi Whitney of Washington / District of Columbia   This washing machine patent model has its original tag and is in an early holder. This washing machine patent model is approx 6" square. The patent was granted on March 31st 1868 and is number 76281.   The washer itself is a good match to the patent which can be viewed using Google Patents Search.   The patent drawing illustrates a boiler / steam generator off to the side which is not here. The washer itself is complete and has an interesting action in addition to the geared crank you see on top.

The interesting feature on this washer is the agitator arrangement Mr. Whitney developed. In the bottom of the washer are a series of round holes and round balls that will be in constant motion when the handle is rocked back and forth. There are also ports in the chamber for the hot steamy water to flow through. The perfect washer for 1868.   I have had or seen other models with similar ideas where loose balls or marble like balls did the hard work. Interesting and nice!!

Another great piece of early Americana with a history, provenance, and a purpose.

The condition is excellent!!   A good one!

Excellent. . . . . . SOLD!!

Patent Model / Salesman Sample Washing Machine This rocking cradle style washing machine is unmarked. It has the look and feel of a patent model, but there is no tags or other maker info.. It originates from the Glissman Iron Collection who were buying patent models from Cliff Peterson who lived nearby them back in the 70's / 80's in southern California.

This washer model is approx 6" tall x 13" long and in very nice condition. It is an interesting design that the inventor put a lot of thought into. It is balanced so that making it rock back and forth to agitate the contents is almost effortless. The condition is excellent!! An nice one!!

Excellent. . . . . . SOLD!

1877 Patent Model of Washing Machine by George Buchanan of Washington PA   This washing machine patent model has its original tag. This patent model washing machine is approx 10" long x 5" or so tall. The patent was granted on October 23rd 1877 and is number 196427.   It is a good match to the patent which can be viewed using Google Patents Search.

This is another great action model and the inventor had a great idea here for the agitator that was believed to be so important to getting a good job done.   The idea here was that you rocked the box back and forth on its swinging carriage like frame to agitate the soapy water. But that alone was not enough and in addition to that, inside the large wooden box is a wooden block with rollers on the bottom and mesh perforated ends would move back and forth acting as both an agitator and rubber. It seems to work perfectly when empty. Not sure how it would go with a load of clothes in the way.

A great piece of early Americana with a history, provenance, and a purpose.

The condition is excellent!!   A good one!

Excellent. . . . . . $895.00 SOLD!!

1878 Patent Model Wash Boiler w/ Built in Agitator The patent number is 204311. The patent was granted to Andrew Friedley of Lamont Illinois on May 28 1878. It is a good match to the patent which for some reason was difficult to find and pull up. The model measures approx. 10" long by 8" tall and 6" wide. It has its original tag, and an additional tag that says it was once part of the O. Rundle Gilbert collection of patent models.

This is far more than just a copper bottom wash boiler. The boiler has a false bottom and the inventor has built passageways into each of the corners so that when the water began to get hot in the bottom compartment of the boiler it would flow up and out of the provided passages in the corners acting as a steamer or agitator of sorts. Neat idea. I am not sure if this idea ever made it into production as I have never seen a full size one with this feature. I can imagine that the added features would have greatly increased the cost to make and so too the final cost to the consumer I have seen other versions where one would put a device inside a standard wash boiler to achieve the same sort of action. An nice one!!

Excellent. . . . . . $295.00 SOLD!!

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Antique & Vintage Salesman Sample & Patent Model Washers / Washing Machines

Antique & Vintage
Salesman Sample & Patent Model
Washers / Washing Machines