Have you been searching for a typewriter and can’t find one? Or, can’t afford one? Or don’t know where to get one repaired? Perhaps you love to write and want to find a new way to concentrate.
I have been collecting typewriters since buying my first in 2017. I use one on most writing days, and they’re an embedded part of my creative practice. Mostly for first drafts, journal entries, letters, and more.
However, I have also wrestled with how many to collect and how to stop collecting now that I’ve reached that number.
They are all fixed to the best of their limits, are frequently shared with others or used by me, and represent a cross-section of typewriter history. I am not interested in starting a large-scale situation selling them. I write, draw, teach. That’s enough.
But, oh, the fun of finding another machine!
My solution: find them to give to others
How much more fun to get that machine into the hands of someone who needs a typewriter?
Generosity is one hallmark of the typewriter-collecting community. Something that is especially needed in this greed-fueled and chaotic world.
The Giveaway
I looked for months for just the right typewriter—a thoroughly pleasant activity. I knew I’d know when I found it. Something that made my heart skip when I saw it for sale. A machine that also worked well.
I had a different typewriter in mind, but then I found this! I dropped everything, drove from Boston to Connecticut, and had a delightful visit with the seller who was responsible for his aunt’s estate. He was excited that his aunt’s magnificent typewriter would be loved and used again.
Smith-Corona Galaxie
The typewriter is a 1959 Smith-Corona Galaxie in Hunter Red. It is practically unused. It was packed away permanently when its little plastic carriage release levers cracked. There was evidence of several former levers in its case.
Now, the typewriter sports a newly installed ribbon on the original metal ribbon spools and has been spruced up and oiled by Tom Furrier of Cambridge Typewriter. Tom also gave it fresh carriage release levers.
Included with the typewriter are an unused red Smith-Corona brush, a vintage ribbon tin, original paperwork, and a great travel case.
There is a small dent in the case near its handle and a scratch or two in the red finish where the typewriter attaches to the case at the back. Otherwise, this machine is in impeccable condition.
I especially like the resounding bell!
[Click thumbnail images below to enlarge]
Pica, 10 characters-per-inch, typeface
Serial No. 6T 238010X - at the Typewriter Database - a 1959 model, first year of production.
Writing tools everywhere! I’ve been enjoying the sight of this typewriter on my desk.
What You Need to Do to enter
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And then leave a comment at the end of this post, telling me
why you would like a typewriter, and
where you are in the world. (I’m willing to ship anywhere.)
Already a subscriber to the Paperblogging newsletter? Leave a comment answering the same questions. When you comment, be sure to use the same email you subscribed with.
The Deadline (Extended a Week!)
Comments accepted until Monday, September 11th, 2023, at midnight EST.
The Winner
I will, yes, type all the names, and draw one winner from the trusty empty marmalade jar, on September 11th, 2023.
I will contact the winner on September 12th, 2023. Reply by midnight EST on September 13th, or I will draw another name.
Once I have a winner, I’ll update this blog post.
Shipping will then commence. Very carefully.
The high-tech Jam Jar of Choosing from the last Paper Blogging Giveaway
The Fine Print
One subscription and one entry per person. Your entry is not complete until you have subscribed, and commented answering both questions.
My decision is final. I reserve the right to change the giveaway in any way, for any reason.
I will do everything I can to pack the typewriter well. I cannot guarantee its safe arrival. Let’s all cross our fingers.
Not responsible for further repairs, parts, or subsequent typewriter addiction.
Thanks for reading and good luck! Remember, subscribe at the link above, then comment below: why you want a typewriter and where you are in the world.
Deadline: Monday, September 11th, 2023, at midnight EST.
Have any questions? Don’t hesitate to ask.