Can You Tell Me How Old My Typewriter is?

That is a common question that I often get over social media or via email.  Many of us have typewriters that are given to us by a relative or ones that we purchase from a typewriter shop or maybe at an antique mall.  It's natural to want to know a bit of history about the particular typewriter(s) that we own.  Let me give you a resource to help you find out how old your machine is.

 The Typewriter Database

The Typewriter Database is a wonderful resource when trying to date your typewriter.  Simply go to the website at http://typewriterdatabase.com to get started.  Select your typewriter's Brand from the drop down menu.

A new page will open that will feature the most recently edited typewriter galleries.  Next, and this is important, scroll down the page.  Once you do that, you'll begin to see typewriter information.

Typewriter information is categorized by standard machines, electrics, and portables.  Find which category you need and locate the serial number range your machine falls into.  Once you know the serial number range, it's easy to reliably date your typewriter (if the information is available).

Unfortunately, not all typewriter information is available.  Some brands are more difficult to date than others.

Also, if you'd like to support the Typewriter Database, create a profile and add your machines (with photos, type samples, etc.) for others to see and enjoy as well as documenting that information for posterity's sake.  (I need to find some time and take my own advice!)

I hope that's helpful.  I'll share some other resources in a future post.