A picture from the other side.

Susan, as far as I know that's the only way to go (adding a post to add an image) other than using HTML code to post one that's already been published online.

Sorry, I have no idea what that device is!

I believe to post more than one picture in one message, you need to go through a website such as Photobucket.

Also, I have no idea what that is! :)

Only one photo at a time, unless you use the Photobucket link method.

Old device:

Is there an outlet on the bottom of the drum in whence the shaft resides?

What's inside the drum?

Maybe it is a coffee or corn grinder/mill.

The maker's name is cast on the wheel: John A. Gilbert

Good questions, Jemdandy. I'm an hour from our friends and cannot go look to answer your questions. I saw that name, Gilbert, and have searched for it with no luck. I'm thinking the device must have been mounted on something else higher. To do some sort of job bending over to turn that wheel doesn't seem practical. I think I'll post the pictures over on the Antiques Forum.

I thought it looked like a grinder of some kind too.

John Gilbert owned a mill in Ypsilanti, MI

Here is a link that might be useful: John Gilbert

Maire, how did you ever find that? Very interesting.

It could be a grinder, but the place where the grain would go in is very small.

Thank you for taking time to post this.

I am guessing it is the remains of some type of mill. I found on google "John A. Gilbert & Co.,. Steel Coffee, Pepper and Sugar Mill Manufacturers of Clerkenwell"

Fantastic, Iowagirl! I am so impressed that you and Maire have come up with these links. The Gilberts were in the US before 1890 (date of advertisement I think), but apparently they had a mill, so they could be part of the John A. Gilbert family in England.

This is so helpful, and I look forward to sharing it with my friends. I think I'll post the pictures and the flyer over on Antiques Forum to see if I can pick up any further info.

Thank you! You gals are great!