ANTIQUE SPINNING WHEEL, maker Fred B. Pearce, 1850s New Hampshire

　　FULL WORKING CONDITION

　　This is a "walking" or "wool" wheel, made in New England in the mid-1800s. The minor's head has the original paper label from the maker, Fred B. Pierce of New Hampshire.

　　It is in fully working condition; I have hand spun fine wool on it.

　　The working mechanism, the minor's head, has no damage, only some discoloration from age and oil. The leather bearings are hardened but intact, no fraying or disintegration. The spindle is in good condition, not pitted.

　　The wheel band is made of a very thin, lightweight hardwood. It had begun to split and has been repaired and restored to full working condition. The wheel is round and true -- no flat areas, no egg shape, and it does not wobble. The drive band stays on well. All the spokes are straight without cracks.

　　The table was carved out of rough wood. Underneath you can see the natural grain and curve where a tree branch had grown. The top and sides have a nice smooth surface. The legs, post and hub are lathe-turned.

　　This is a nice size wheel to work on and doesn't take up a much room as some of the other 19th century wheels do.

　　Dimensions:

　　Overall height: 58"

　　Wheel: 41" diameter

　　Length assembled: approx 65" from end to end