The forerunner of the modern type writer- a piano like machi
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The forerunner of the modern type writer- a piano like machi
Photograph of a typewriter from 1851. This typewriter resembled a toy piano with black and white keys
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4358670
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10216067
1851 28th Forerunner Keys Piano Type Writer 1923 Machi Resembled
EDITORS COMMENTS
July 28, 1851: The Forerunner of the Modern Typewriter - A Piano-like Marvel Step back in time to the bustling streets of London, England, on July 28, 1851, where an extraordinary invention was showcased at the Great Exhibition. This photograph reveals the forerunner of the modern typewriter, a remarkable machine that resembled a toy piano more than it did the sleek, commercial devices we know today. Dubbed as the 'Type-Writer,' this pioneering invention, created by American inventor Christopher Latham Sholes, featured an intricate design with 21 white and 21 black keys. The keys were arranged in a QWERTY layout, a precursor to the standard layout used in today's keyboards. This ingenious machine was designed to simplify the process of producing written documents by allowing the user to type directly onto a paper instead of handwriting. The Type-Writer's piano-like appearance was not merely an aesthetic choice; it was an essential part of its functionality. The keys were connected to a series of levers and hammers, which struck an inked ribbon against a sheet of paper, leaving an indelible impression of the typed characters. This historical artifact, a testament to human ingenuity, predates the first commercially successful typewriter, the Sholes and Glidden Type-Writer, which was patented in 1873. The Type-Writer on display at the Great Exhibition was a significant step towards the development of the modern typewriter and revolutionized the way we communicate written words. As we marvel at the advancements in technology that have transpired since the 19th century, it is fascinating to reflect on the origins of the typewriter and appreciate the intricate design of this piano-like forerunner.
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