History of Printing in NYC

history-printing-nyc-hoe-and-company-01The history of printing in NYC is a lengthy one, featuring many different stages and printing methods. This is especially true with regard to New York City and its printing history. From newspaper printing to the introduction of new printing tools, the history of printing in NYC is one of great interest to many individuals. The following provides highlights as to some interesting aspects surrounding the printing industry in New York City.

Hoe & Company Establishes in New York (1805)

Hoe & Company, a printing press manufacturer, established its business in New York City in 1805 under initial name of Smith, Hoe & Company. Wooden hand printing presses were its initial product offering. Some of the other printing presses to follow included lithographic and iron presses.

Freedom’s Journal Established in New York (1827)

The first African-American newspaper in New York City, Freedom’s Journal, was established in 1827 by John B. Russwurm.

Mass-Producing Wood Type Method Invented (1827)

The means for a mass-producing wood type was invented by Darius Wells in New York in 1827. In 1828, Wells went on to produce the first known wood type catalog.

The New York Sun Mass-Produced Newspaper (1827)

new-york-sun-nyc-histoorical-printers-02The Sun was known as “the penny press” because it only cost one penny to purchase. This was a reputable newspaper, popular for its illustrations and crime reporting, and was in a similar category to The New York Times and New York Herald Tribune.

National Typographical Union Foundation Plans Laid Out in New York City (1850)

Although the actual founding of the National Typographical Union Foundation was in 1852 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the framework for this important foundation was laid out in New York City in December 1850.

The New York Tribune Was the First Newspaper to Install Linotype (1886)

Linotype, the first successful automatic typesetting machine established in 1884, was installed by The New York Tribune in 1886. Linotype was a composing machine which produced lines of words in the form of single strips of metal. In the past, this was used primarily for newspapers, but it is rarely used these days.

Xerography Developed by Chester S. Carlson of Queens, New York (1938)

Xerography, a dry photocopying technique, was developed by Chester S. Carlson of Queens, New York in 1938. This copy method is still currently used to make copies in an easy and efficient manner.

Last New York Times Set by Linotype (1978)

The last New York Times set by Linotype took place in 1978. This event was so momentous that it was featured in a documentary film called Farewell, Etaoin Shrdlu, a film which was made about a night at the New York Times on July 1, 1978. The film was made by David Loeb Weiss, a proofreader at the newspaper. The film focused on the last time the Linotype was used to produce the newspaper.

Contact Automation Graphics in New York City for Your Various Printing Needs

Finding a reputable and professional commercial printer to handle all of your printing needs is easy as can be in present day, thanks to the extensive service offerings of Automation Graphics. We will work with you to help you to achieve all of your commercial printing goals with ease.

Contact us today to get started realizing your printing, copying, and promotional product goals and achieve your desired business results.

Automation Graphics
261 West 35th Street
Floor 12A
New York NY 10001
(646) 205-3037

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References:

https://printinghistory.org/timeline/

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