For sale is an original mint 1940s era Antique Wood & Metal Lingerie DUBL HANDL WASHBOARD from the Columbus Washboard Company, Columbus, Ohio. This washboard is in excellent condition with minimal wear. One panel reads: “Ideal for silks, Hosiery and Lingerie or Handkerchiefs – Just the right Size to Fit a Bucket, Pail or Lavatory – Packs easily into suit case or traveling bag – Columbus Washboard Co, Columbus, Ohio”. Measures 18 inches tall by 8 3/4 inches wide. A great antique that displays well in any home.
The first patent for a metal washboard was submitted on February 9, 1833 by S. Rust of New York. This new patented idea for a washboard was made with a piece of fluted tin, sheet iron, copper or zinc. Throughout the years, washboards were not only popular as an everyday necessity of household items, but also became popular with many musicians. Washboards became known as the “poor man’s” instrument due to the musicians’ lack of finances to purchase real musical instruments. Jug bands used washboard as instruments beginning in the 1920s. Glass washboards were popular during World War II due to a shortage of metal. The body was made of wood, but the scrubbing area was glass. Once the war ended metal became more readily available and companies began making metal washboards once again. There were several major washboard companies besides the Columbus Washboard Company, which included The National Washboard Company, The Cleveland Washboard Company and The Superior Washboard Company. Out of all the companies, Columbus Washboard Company is the only one still in operation today.
