What Vac Is This??

[briguy]

Hey guys I am wondering what you can tell me about this vac? I haven't seen this one before. It appears that instead of a plug on the cord, it screws into a light socket. Obviously judging by that it's been around for quite some time, as well as the amount of "patina" it has.

I have 2 pics I will post separately.

 

[briguy]

Photo #2

Here's the 2nd of the two pics.

 

[super-sweeper]

I do believe that is known as a "Reliable",Charles Richard Lester (If i spelt his name right) Used to have one,if he hasn't sold it or something.

-Alex.

 

[briguy]

Thanks for the info Alex!

 

[super-sweeper]

Glad to be of assistance

I'm glad my information helped out, did it turn out to be a reliable?

You may also want to zoom in on that bag, It looks as if there's some writing on it, Perhaps a brand or model?

-Alex.

 

[super-sweeper]

Video with similar vacuum

Here's Charles's video featuring the reliable, it comes in at around 3:57.

-Alex.

 

[super-sweeper]

Pictures of similar vacuum

A picture of the Reliable from Charles's lovely website.

 

[super-sweeper]

More,

Detail on manufacturer's plate.

-Alex.

 

[caligula]

The last picture looks something like a Richmond.

While it's not the Richmond, which was the first lightweight vacuum cleaner circa 1910 made by Hamilton Beach. Dubbed 'So light a child can use it!' Several early machines were sold under a number of names, but the screw in plug tells me it's VERY old, certainly no later than the 20's.

The picture here is the Hoover Historical Center in September 1980. Note the 1869 Whirlwind tothe far left.

Alex Taber.

 

[caligula]

The oldest known vacuum cleaner.

The Whirlwind, patent date June 8, 1869, was invented in Chicago by Ives W. Mc'Gaffy, but was manufactured in Boston by the American Carpet Cleaning company. As this was non electric, it was powered by a hand crank at the top. Note the long belt used to turn the fan. Unfortunately the bag is a reproduction, as is the drive belt. There are only a few known to exist. This one is mine, I acquired it from an antique dealer in 1986. He had no idea what he had. Lucky me!!!

 

[oreck_xl]

I don't think that's a Reliable

If I had to take a wild guess, I'd say that's a Frantz Premier and an early one at that. If you are ever selling the machine, I'd definitely have an interest.

- Hershel

 

[brandon_w_t]

If it is a Reliable, Its a different model. This one appears earlier than Charles's Reliable. The nozzles are different, as is the motor housing shape and handle bails. But the designs are pretty close. If they are not the same, their designs were probably from a single source.