Vintage Singer sewing machine accessory box

Question: I recently purchased an old Singer treadle sewing machine, and in one of the drawers was a wooden box full of accessories. The box is stamped on the top "Patent 1838 February 19", ( I'm pretty sure it is 1838 - at least 18 something )and it folds down flat. When the box is closed, the two sides are actually four pieces of wood that go together triangle shaped to form a "square" end. Inside the box is lined with maybe velvet, and it has numbered holders to hold the various sewing machine parts that also correspond with the numbers. I think it is quite beautiful.
I can't describe it any better than that, I'm not sure what it is, or how to go about finding more info about it. Can you point me in a right direction? -- Denise

Answer: While reading your letter I was struck by the memory of playing with the intricate folding box full of interesting little tools and parts that was in the drawer of my grandmother's machine.
You were lucky enough to find a machine that included the original tools and accessories. That doesn't happen often. They are often removed from the machines before they are sold, or were lost long ago. I suspect the patent date on the box is not 1838, but probably 1888.
The wood "puzzle" boxes were eventually replaced by modern plastic boxes that come with machines today. You can find more information about vintage machines at the International Sewing Machine Collectors Society Web site.
I've enclosed a link to a box like yours that is currently selling on eBay.