Oliver Typewriter Company

The Rise and Fall of an American Typewriter Giant

Imagine a time when typing was not just about writing but also about precision and craftsmanship—this is where the Oliver Typewriter Company comes into play. Founded in 1895, this company became synonymous with quality and innovation, producing over one million machines between 1895 and 1928. But what exactly made Oliver so special? Was it just about the numbers or was there something more profound at work?

The Birth of an Idea

Thomas Oliver, a man with a vision, was born in Canada in 1852. His journey to becoming a typewriter pioneer began when he developed his first machine in 1888. He patented this design in 1891 and left the ministry behind to dedicate himself fully to manufacturing. The company started its operations in Iowa before moving to Illinois, where it would thrive for decades.

Expansion and Challenges

The Oliver Typewriter Company expanded rapidly, establishing a robust sales network with local distributors and offering credit terms to customers. However, like many businesses of that era, they faced significant challenges. The late 1910s saw increased competition, leading to price reductions and higher production levels. Yet, financial troubles loomed large, exacerbated by the recession of 1921-22.

A Tragic Loss

In 1909, Thomas Oliver passed away suddenly at the age of 56 due to heart disease. His death marked a turning point in the company’s history, with Delavan Smith taking over and becoming a pivotal figure. The company chose not to borrow money, leading to its eventual liquidation in 1926.

The British Oliver Typewriter Company

Despite the challenges, the legacy of Oliver lived on through the formation of the British Oliver Typewriter Company in Croydon, England. This company continued producing various models until 1959, ensuring that the name remained relevant even after its American counterpart had ceased operations.

The Design and Functionality

Oliver typewriters were renowned for their ‘down strike’ method, featuring visible print and greater striking power. The typebars had an inverted ‘U’ shape, resting in towers on the sides of the machine. These machines came in olive green paint or nickel-plating with white or black keyboards. Some models even featured a four-row keyboard, while others were painted green for warmer climates.

International Variants

The company’s reach extended beyond its American borders. Models produced between 1894 and 1928 included even-numbered models with extra keys for accented languages. In the UK, production continued until 1942, while international licensees such as The Linotype Company of Montreal and A. Greger & Co. of Vienna created their own versions.

A Legacy in Literature

Oliver typewriters found a place not just in offices but also in literature. A novel about Mexican revolutionaries even featured an Oliver Typewriter model No. 3 in 1915, highlighting the machine’s cultural significance beyond its practical uses.

The End of an Era

Production of Oliver’s original design was discontinued in 1931 but resumed in 1947. The company began licensing its name to European manufacturing companies and eventually stopped producing typewriters altogether. Yet, the impact of these machines on the world of writing cannot be understated.

From its humble beginnings in Iowa to its global reach, the Oliver Typewriter Company stands as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship. Its legacy lives on not just through the machines it produced but also through the stories they inspired. As we look back at this remarkable company, one cannot help but wonder what other tales of ingenuity and perseverance await us in the annals of history.