New Home
New Home, 1952 Style LLR (822 624-912 760), Type J, Rockford, Illinois
Provenance and History
This New Home sewing machine was purchased in March 2026 from Find for $30. Further details about its previous ownership are being researched.
About New Home Machines: The New Home Sewing Machine Company has a rich and complex history, beginning with Stephen French, Thomas White, and William L. Grout in the 1860s. Their early innovations and business acumen helped the company survive the fierce patent wars and competition that defined the sewing machine industry in New England. New Home machines were known for their robust engineering, clever mechanical improvements, and adaptability to changing markets. The company produced a wide range of models, including the "Octagon," "National," and the iconic "New Home," and was recognized for its high production standards and inventive spirit. Read more about the men behind New Home.
What makes New Home machines unique is not just their technical quality, but also the story of resilience and ingenuity behind their creation. The company weathered fires, relocations, and changes in leadership, always adapting and innovating. By the 1930s, New Home had become a household name, with millions of machines in use worldwide. Their legacy is celebrated not only in technical achievements but also in the cultural memory of sewing, as reflected in period advertisements and even poetry. See a period poem about New Home.
Condition and Evidence of Use
The machine was in clean and complete condition although no power cord was present. Slight clouding of the finish on the top of the case was present as well as a few deeper scratches. The machine itself operated initially although it was very loud and shuddered. Close inspection showed evidence of greasing early on (factory?) but little or no lubrication on surfaces remained. No rust or corrosion present.
Current Status
Status: In care
Location: The Sewing Machine Orphanage, Devon, Alberta
Stewardship Notes
Machine was cleaned and lubricated. New bobbin was installed. Bobbin present in the machine was modified with a file and quite rough around the edges. This bobbin remains with the machine but a Singer 221 bobbin was used and functions perfectly. A copper plate was added to the stitch length lever mechanism to allow for return to setting function when reversing. The top of the cabinet was stripped and lightly sanded. New tung oil finish was applied in three coats. Last coat was with Rudy's finish (Tung oil and Spar Urethane 16:1).
Resources and References
Manuals and Documents
- New Home Manual (Pages 1-13, PDF)
- New Home Manual (Pages 14-25, PDF)
- New Home Manual (Pages 26-36, PDF)
New Home Company History
ISMACS: The New Home Sewing Machine Company
A detailed history of the New Home Sewing Machine Company, including origins, patents, and model information, provided by the International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society (ISMACS).