The staff at the Mauston Habitat for Humanity ReStore knew that the antique sewing machine that came off the truck at the end of April was a special piece. The machine was beautifully painted, and the cabinet it folded into was made of solid, quarter-sawn, white oak. Recognizing the beauty as well as the historical value of the piece, Jim Abbs, president of the Board of Habitat for Humanity of Adams & Juneau County, decided the best home for the machine was one where its history would be valued.
The Elroy Historical Society, located in downtown Elroy, is home to over 400 exhibits featuring objects from Elroy’s past. Exhibits show what life was like in Elroy when it was a bustling railroad town, as well as objects related to farming and family life in early Juneau County. The museum did not, however, have an antique sewing machine. Donna Rawn, president of the Elroy Historical Society, jumped at the chance to incorporate such a unique piece into the museum’s exhibits.

The sewing machine, donated by Janet Ackerson of Wonewoc, was manufactured by the New Home company in Orange, Massachusetts. The serial number dates it from 1901. The unique “parlor cabinet” design was a highly sought after feature for sewing machines, and made it one of the most expensive types of machines on the market.
At the Elroy Historical Society’s museum, it will be used to illustrate what domestic life was like for many Juneau County families in the early twentieth century.

The Mauston Habitat for Humanity ReStore is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10-5. All proceeds from sales go towards supporting Habitat for Humanity of Adams and Juneau County. The Elroy Historical Society Museum is open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment.