Cast iron Columbian printing press
- Made:
- c.1850



Columbian hand printing press; cast iron with eagles and serpents moulded into casting. Lever operated, and painted black.
The Columbian was the first printing press to be manufactured on a large scale. Originally designed in Philadelphia, USA by George Clymer (1754?–1834) the Columbian was much more ornate than previous presses. Advances in the cast iron industry allowed for more elaborate decoration and the Columbian used this to great effect. It was produced in Britain from 1812 onwards.
On display
Science and Industry Museum: 1830 Warehouse
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Details
- Category:
- Printing & Writing
- Object Number:
- Y1973.39
- Materials:
- metal (unknown) and wood (unidentified)
- type:
- hand printing press
- credit:
- Gift of Mr E. Bell
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