Long before electric appliances and modern food processors appeared in kitchens, families relied on simple mechanical tools like this one to make everyday cooking faster and easier.
During the late 1800s, preparing a large basket of apples could be a serious chore. Apples had to be peeled one by one before they could be turned into pies, applesauce, preserves, or dried fruit.
Then came this clever little machine.
**A Surprisingly Clever Design**
The apple peeler was usually attached firmly to the edge of a kitchen table.
An apple was placed onto the metal prongs, and turning the handle caused it to rotate.
As it spun, a curved blade followed the shape of the fruit and carefully removed the skin.
Depending on the model, the same motion could also core and slice the apple into a beautiful spiral.
