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Nähmaschinenmuseum Madersperger

Kufstein, Austria

The father of the sewing machine died broke, but this small, free museum is dedicated to the unsung inventor. 

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The small, niche musem is an homage to Madensperger's life. copyright Sven Roscher
Left: The small, niche musem is an homage to Madensperger's life. copyright Sven Roscher
Right: Learn all about the intricate history of the sewing machine. mrboss (Atlas Obscura User)
Learn all about the intricate history of the sewing machine. mrboss (Atlas Obscura User)
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Josef Madersperger, who born 1768 in Kufstein, is considered the inventor of the sewing machine. Although his creation would ultimately revolutionize textiles, when he first presented it to the world in 1814, no one wanted it. The inventor would ultimately gift his idea to the Polytechnic Institute in Vienna in 1839. He passed away mostly penniless in city just over a decade later. 

Although Madersperger’s genius never brought him fame or fortune in life, the people of Kufstein have dedicated a small but fine museum to him in the house where he was born. The entrance one a pastel facade is easy to miss, but it’s worth seeking out to honor the legacy of a man who was ahead of his time. 

Know Before You Go

Note that Kufstein's small museum is not to be confused with the other Nähmaschinenmuseum in Switzerland.

museums and collections museums
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March 26, 2024
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