Chicago typewriter - 1899

Chicago typewriter - 1899

This is an early Chicago showing the patent dates on the front shield. Collector's refer to this model as the 'decorated model'.

There are no type-bars on the Chicago but a metal cylinder, about the size of ones little finger, with the characters cast onto its surface. The cylinder moves back and forth and rotates to select the characters, then a hammer strikes from the back to make the impression. Many cylinders were available with different fonts.

You can see my collection of antique typewriters at www.antiquetypewriters.com