This morning I received an unexpected package from my friend, and inlaw, T. who I thank profusely in passing and which turned out to be a real surprise. You usually don’t think of washboards when you open an type 1 catalog envelope but a washboard it was and not a toy either!
This 7”×4.5” washboard was used for silk hosiery and in fact has the coolest warning on the back:
Wash silk hosiery on this special washboard only!
Rub only toes, heels and soles. Use ivory soap flakes exclusively following special instructions on carton.
This little washboard was distributed by the Real Silk Hosiery Mills Indianapolis IND. A quick search on the web reveals that this company existed from 1920 to 1952, you can read more about it at Indiana History dot Org
It’s perfectly playable and sounds great with the plastic thimbles I have from Bone Dry Music (since with those I know I won’t damage the rubbing surface which is in good shape but nevertheless isn’t brand new). Just hold it in one hand and play with the other. Since the board doesn’t have wood on the top and bottom you actually get a longer rub than you would think.
28 October 2011, 00:14
i just found 1 of these wash boards and wondered what they worth
31 October 2011, 11:15
Hi Doyle,
Well most used washboards go from $5 to $25 but some, like the National Zinc King 703 which are more desirable can cost a lot more if in mint condition.
Doing a quick search I found a Real Silk Hosiery Mills washboard that sold for $38.98 on Ebay last month if that’s an indication.
That’s pretty much all I can tell you.