Homestead Journal at Fat Turkey Farm

Bertha Info

I had a wonderful visit with my friend Sharon about Bertha.  Sharon had previously purchased Bertha from an estate sale in AZ in 93, or thereabouts.  The info about Bertha she passed on to me is this.

The woman who owned Bertha was named Dorthy Reynolds.  Mrs Reynolds used the loom in Portland Oregon to weave rugs to support her family.  It's believed that Mrs Reynolds bought Bertha used, so her age is about 75-100 years or so.  Mrs Reynolds moved to AZ with the loom before she passed away.  Bertha is a Jack-type loom (rising shed), home made, in the Barn loom style ie. post and beam construction.  Sharon was going to look thru her papers to see what other information she can uncover about Bertha.

I just love having the history about things like this!

Sharon has started to make the parts that are missing from Bertha, a set of lams for one thing.  She said that mechanically Bertha is in good shape, but needs a bit of refinishing work done and a few new parts made.

What a wonderful treat it will be to sit down to weave at Bertha and say hello to Mrs Reynolds!

Bye Bye!

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{ 09:43, August 5, 2006 } { Posted by thatday }

How exciting for you! I have not watched anyone weaving, but I can hear how much you enjoy it. And now to be able to learn the history of your loom.
Barb

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{ 06:13, August 5, 2006 } { Posted by riverrim }

That is so nice that you now have the history of the loom! You should put it on paper, and tape it somewhere on the loom...along with a little tid-bit about yourself too....I have done that with my wheels..so at least there is some record...ps...say hello for me next time you sit down to weave!