When letterpress was king! A look back through the eyes of Otto Boutin’s great book

Linotype keyboard

The Linotype operator’s work station

Sometimes I chance upon stories that fascinate me and today was one of those days.  In my “spam” folder—why it ended up there I have no clue—I found a copy of Mark Michelson’s column in the on-line version of Printing Impressions.  It’s about Otto Boutin’s captivating book Otto’s Night Watch. There a “Love Letter to an Old Linotype” transported me to the era when hot metal was king but was on the verge of being dethroned.  Anyone interested in reminiscing about our old craft will find Boutin’s stories enjoyable reading.  I found the book (a used one, but in great shape) through ABE Books, but there are other vendors out there, so look around and sit back for an enjoyable read.  

Until later.

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