[SEL] auction

[Germoamer at aol.com]

Thanks for all the replies.  And yes, it is a sewing machine that  chain 
stitches as in a feed bag. If you look at the top right side of  the photo you 
can see a spring mechanism that provides thread tension.   Looking at the 
left side on the up and down  rod there are 2 wire loops that the thread 
passes thru before  passing thru the needle.  On the underside of the plate 
where the needle  passes thru, there is a rotating hook that catches the thread 
thus forming the  under part of the chain stitch. 
 
_http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/sew1.jpg_ 
(http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/sew1.jpg) 
 
I finally found a mfg. tag that was hidden by a removable cover.   It reads:
 
Tillinghast S.&M. Co.
Salem, Mass
Type T.L.2.F.P.
 
See photo of tag
 
 
_http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/sew4.jpg_ 
(http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/sew4.jpg) 

 
I have found no information on this company or the "bag closer" yet on the  
internet or google patents.
 
I have sent the information to the Salem Historical Society to enlist their 
 help.  Any other help would be appreciated.  
 
Tom  Schmutz
Concord, Va.
germoamer at AOL.com