Publication Date

1967

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Walther, LaVern||White, John B. (Professor of library science)

Degree Name

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Legacy Department

Department of Library Science

LCSH

Printing--Specimens; Printing--United States--History; Type and type-founding

Abstract

The problem was to prove the thesis that the early American typefounders made noteworthy contributions to our typographical history and our culture, 1728-1828. The procedure used was to first present a firm foundation of background material. This consisted of definitions, development of letter-forms, representative review of prior literature, and a prologue dealing with early Spanish-American typefounding. The main text was confined to individual typefounders of early American history. The research was supplemented by charts and illustrations. The earliest American typefounders did not present a record of failure and imperfection. Many of them conducted their foundries With moderate success. Franklin, Buell, the Sowers, Fox, Bay, and Geyer were ingenious craftsmen. Mappa and Bache gave up casting for other interests. Mitchelson was the only mystery man. We can assume that his contribution was negligible. The typefounding of John Baine, and Binny and Ronaldson reached a quality and quantity sufficient to meet the commercial demands of the printers of the period. All these founders were self-taught artisans who were capable of casting and finishing types. These pioneers were not only skilled in many crafts, but they also added to the culture of their society.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references.||Includes illustrations.

Extent

x, 398 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

Download

Share

COinS