one of their most rare and valuable machines because of its age and the short time it was available. The museum even has American made machines that were used in England, purchased by the family and have returned to South Dakota. The search for sewing machines to complete the museum’s timeline has included extended family members as well. Sally mentions in particular, the Singer model twelve that was one of Isaac Singer’s most successful machines. It came out shortly after the Civil War. The early sewing machines were very expensive and could cost a year’s wages. It was common for multiple families to go in together to purchase one that they all would share. Singer was the first manufacturer to offer people an affordable ten year payment plan that was wildly popular. The model twelve was said to be “The machine that clothed a nation.” Sally has been astounded by the interest the public has shown in the museum. She hopes that telling the sewing machine’s story will “Encourage people to keep their machines and hand them down” to continue to be used by other family members. I want people to know their value and rich history.” She feels that there has been a resurgence in the popularity of sewing, quilting and making things by hand and this museum is very relevant. Information about the museum and contacting Sally is available on Facebook and Instagram under Farmers Daughters Sewing Museum. Visiting the museum is done by appointment only, but Sally is considering being open one or two Saturdays a month during the winter. I recommend allotting at least an hour because there is so much to see. Sally has an interesting video available called “Still Stitching” that can be viewed at the museum too. Children are strongly encouraged to visit. Sally wants the museum to be interactive with opportunities for people to actually see the sewing machines in action. She looks forward to having future workshops and gatherings. This museum is one of only two in existence in the United States, with the other being in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We are so very fortunate to have such a unique place to learn about vintage sewing machines so close to home. n Short on Time? Hate to Shop? Shop the way you want to shop. From anywhere, at any time. Shop In Your Pajamas! 2100 Broadway, Yankton • 665-3412 Shop by department just as you would shop our stores in person. Shop by the weekly ad: Page through the weekly ads and add items directly to your cart. Your order will be available for curb-side pick-up or delivery to your home in as little as 4 hours! 10vHERVOICEvNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018