Reviving History: A Journey with an 1896 Chandler and Price Printing Press

Picking up an 1896 Chandler and Price Jobbing press from Manchester Center, Vermont, felt like unearthing a treasure trove of printing history. Accompanied by 8 cases of type, including Century Schoolbook fonts in various sizes and italics, the press came with a leading cutter, a full set of furniture, a collection of leading and slugs, all adding to its allure. Despite its age, the treadle-powered press remains in good condition, awaiting a dose of elbow grease before its printing debut.

Transforming my home workshop into a letterpress studio has become a consuming passion, consuming weekends in the most fulfilling way. The tactile sensation of handling raw typography, the clink of metal type against the press bed—these experiences offer a connection to craftsmanship often lost in our digital age.

With dedication and anticipation, the new print shop aims to be operational by June, promising a revival of traditional printing techniques in a modern world. The absence of screens is a deliberate choice, embracing the beauty of physical, moveable type as the heart of creativity. In this unplugged sanctuary, I find solace and joy, immersed in the artistry of raw typography.

Stay tuned for updated on the new additions to the studio, the status of the press, and future unplugged projects!