Issue #61 - July 2008

In this issue we learn about spinning-wheel makers from California in the second half of the 20^th century, New Zealand in the 19^th century, and England in the late 18^th century. Two unusual winders are also discussed.

Two Spinning-Wheel Makers of the Golden Gate
by Will Taylor

Will Taylor continues his study of late 20^th-century spinning-wheel makers from the West Coast. He introduces us to Anthony Cardarelle and Henry Clemes, two influential wheel makers who worked in the Golden Gate region.

Anthony Cardarelle

Tom Wright and Henry Clemes

Cardarelle flax wheel, Cardarelle upright (left with distaff),
Clemes & Clemes wheel

Finding Roderick the Miller
by Mary Knox

In search of a 19^th-century spinning-wheel maker, Mary Knox, our New Zealand correspondent, travels to the small town of Waipu on the North Island. There she discovers a wheel that was made by Roderick Fraser, also known as Roderick the Miller. She recounts the story of the community he belonged to that came originally from Scotland via Nova Scotia.

Roderick Fraser, 1810-1883
(Courtesy of Waipu Museum)

Spinning frolic ca. 1870 at Murdoch McGregor's house,
Waipu (courtesy of Waipu Museum)

Wheel made of non-New Zealand woods
(possibly from Nova Scotia or Scotland)

Parts of the wheel made of puriri and rewarewa,
attributed to Roderick Fraser

John Jameson's Boudoir or Carriage Wheels
by Michael Taylor

Having recently acquired a delicate parlor wheel, Michael Taylor describes the characteristics of these wheels made by John Jameson, a turner and toy manufacturer in late 18^th-century York, England.

Jameson wheel

Painted floral design

Wheel to Winders

Two inquiries asking the same question, "Is this a spinning wheel?", had the same answer, "No, it is a bobbin or quill winder." I describe what these devices, belonging to Brucie Connell and Billy Paul, have in common and how they are different.

Brucie's winder/wheel - front maiden removed

Billy's winder/wheel