James Edward Allen Gibbs
James Edward Allen Gibbs (1829–1902) was a farmer, inventor, and businessman from Rockbridge County in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.[1] On June 2, 1857, he was awarded a patent for the first twisted chain-stitch single-thread sewing machine using a rotating hook. In partnership with James Willcox, Gibbs became a principal in the Willcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine Company.[citation needed]
The Willcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine Company started in 1857 by James E. A. Gibbs and James Willcox opened its London Office in 1859 at 135 Regent Street. By around 1871 the European offices were at 150 Cheapside, London and later 20 Fore Street, London. The company hired
Following his successful invention, he named his family's farm "Raphine." The name originated from an old Greek word "raphis" which means "to sew." The community of Raphine, Virginia, was named in his honor.[4]
Gallery
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A Willcox and Gibbs sewing machine on its ornate treadle.
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A German straw hat machine from Heinrich Grossmann built around a Willcox and Gibbs.
References
- ^ Winifred Hadsel (1985). The streets of Lexington, Virginia: a guide to the origins and history of their names. Rockbridge Historical Society. Retrieved November 24, 2012.
- ^ "John E. Powers: Former Copywriter, Lord & Taylor & John Wanamaker Company". Advertising Hall of Fame. Retrieved November 23, 2012.
- ISBN 978-0-313-06221-6. Retrieved November 24, 2012.
- ISBN 978-0-7643-2465-9. Retrieved November 23, 2012.
External links