Cutting Edge Luddite

What’s a piece of technology you’re convinced will exist in 20 years?

My grandmothers brother (Uncle Ken) was a luddite before the term was invented. I don’t remember him, but I am told this story repeatedly.

He and his wife Anna, went to the big box store to buy a brand new washing machine as their old wringer washer wasn’t what it used to be. A wringer washing machine utilizes an agitator-driven open wash tub paired with two motorized or hand-cranked rollers (the wringer) at the top to squeeze excess water out of their classy garments. At the time they were being replaced by modern spin-dry cycles.

Wash Machine Box Store

He and Ruth spotted a sparkling new wash machine on the sales floor. Their salesmen Robbie Moore showed them how it worked and it seemed easy enough. Anna (Anna Banana) imagined all the free time she would have with this new machine. Marriage wasn’t quite as democratic back then. Ken had forty dollars in his pocket and was ready to pay cash.

At the last minute, he told the saleman, that he didn’t trust the new technology.

He purchased another wringer washer for sixty dollars and drew his Luddite line in the sand.

One hundred years later, thanks to Uncle Ken, the wringer washer remains highly popular for off-grid living, homesteading, and heavy-duty shop cleaning due to their minimal water consumption, speed, and durability. 

On the wall next to washer hangs a portrait of the mythical leader, “General” or “King” Ned Ludd, a folklore figure said to have destroyed two stocking frames in a fit of rage. The Luddites targeted machines used for exploitative practices rather than opposing technology itself.

One response to “Cutting Edge Luddite”

  1. vermavkv Avatar

    What a fascinating story! I enjoyed how you blended family history with the origins of the Luddites, showing that skepticism toward new technology isn’t always without reason. Uncle Ken’s decision, once seen as old-fashioned, proved surprisingly practical over time. A wonderfully told piece that reminds us that sometimes the old ways still have lasting value.

I would love to hear you opinion as well

I’m Mark

His friends observe Mark seems wired a little differently. Perhaps it’s more likely that noticing little things often missed by others is a relic of a quieter, simpler time. He has a way with words, which he refuses to let be hindered by sub-par typing skills. People have great stories to tell if you sit and listen.

A belief dear to Mark is that there is certain beauty in the world. You simply have to look for it.

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