Possibly used prior to the Civil War by enslaved people on a southern plantation to spin cordage. Note the crude flyer wedged in place by horseshoe nails. The machine works on the "bobbin lead" principle, the flyer and spindle having no direct…
An unusual design. The main barrel has 2 wood pieces on the ends that loosen when handle on end (right in photo) is turned. When handle is loosened, all parts come apart - uprights, ends, spindle, etc. Base post looks new.