National Washboard Co. Textured Glass Washboards, No. 512 & No. 410 — Lot of 2

Two glass-fronted laundry washboards from the National Washboard Co. of Chicago, Saginaw, and Memphis, each stenciled with the maker's oval and model designation across the wood headboard. The larger board is the No. 512, its stencil reading "National Washboard Co. / No. NATIONAL 512 / Trade Marks Reg. U.S. Pat. Off. Made in U.S.A. / Saginaw, Chicago, Memphis." The companion is the No. 410, similarly marked. Both rub surfaces are ribbed National-brand textured glass — the word "NATIONAL" molded directly into the raised glass ridges, confirmed in reference photos.

National was the dominant American washboard maker of the early 20th century, and its glass-panel boards were marketed as the more hygienic alternative to zinc and brass — the ribbed glass resisted rust and gave the laundry a cleaner, less abrasive surface. Framed in softwood with turned soap-rest crossbars and standing legs, these are honest working examples that carry their original stenciled branding legibly. They sell together as a matched pair of period laundry tools.

CONDITION

Good with age-appropriate wear throughout. The stenciled lettering shows fading and rub loss but remains readable; the No. 512 headboard carries a minor split. Glass panels are instact. Both frames are structurally sound with previous signs of laundry use. Custom condition: Good, age appropriate wear, visible wear to visibility and minor split to headboard, previous signs of use.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Board 1 (No. 410): 24" H × 12 1/4" W × 1 3/8" D
• Board 2 (No. 512): 24 1/4" H × 12 1/4" W × 3" D
• Maker: National Washboard Co. — Chicago, Saginaw, Memphis
• Rub surface: National-brand textured/ribbed glass
• Lot: 2 washboards