From the Archives - April 3, 2025

Savage Arms Corporation was founded in 1894 by Arthur Savage. The New York company manufactured firearms, mostly lever-action rifles. During WWI and WWII, Savage Arms produced submachine guns and aircraft machine guns. During the years between the two wars, the company expanded to hit new markets. It became the leading producer of washing machines, lawn mowers, ice cream cabinets, and even the first chainless bicycle. Following WWII, Savage Arms Corporation specialized in firearms for hunters and outdoorsmen, establishing a strong reputation in that market. 

The "Savage Washer and Dryer" was produced by Savage Arms Corporation. It featured a tilted rotating drum with a copper tub and included a spin dryer, quite a significant advancement in laundry technology at the time. It cost around $81.50 (today’s equivalent of $1,229). 

The Water & Light Department advertisement for the “Savage” appeared in the BF Herald, February 19, 1925. When this ad was discovered, it brought to mind the machine in the Museum collection. The Savage in the Museum has this information: “Don Mercer bought this at Don Hoagland's Action for $10 in the 1960s. His wife used it for a few years until they could afford a new washer and dryer. After that, it was stored in his barn, until one day in 1993, he found it in there and brought it to the museum.” 

The Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, sponsors this column.  

Visit the museum Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., or visit the website at boundarycountymuseum.org or the museum’s Facebook page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. The museum can be reached via email at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or by phone at 208-267-7720.