History of the Typewriter

—284— The Sholes-Visible. This typewriter was invented by Mr. C. Latham Sholes, who took a prominent part in the early history of the typewriter. It writes in sight and shows not only the line that is being written in view of the operator, but also all that has already been written. This is a very important feature. The makers recommended it for the following reasons :— Simple Construction. The Visible Sholes has been so simplified that it is much less subject to derangement than is the complicated mechanism of other machines, and the cost of manufacture has been reduced to an extent which admits of a very considerable reduction in price. It has fewer parts than any other standard typewriter, and the mechanism throughout is so simple that the noise and possibility of derangement are reduced to a minimum. Necessary repairs can in most cases be made by the operator. Platen. Ihe platen of the Visible Sholes is lifted with knobs and all necessary attachments for single or double line spacing. It provides independent movement of the roll for writing on ruled paper or for billing. Movable paper fingers are also provided. Those can be adjusted for any width of paper, card, or envelope. The machine also has automatic ribbon feed, double and single spacers, scale, etc., etc. Type-Bars. The type-bar is made of one piece, L- shaped, and operates in a guide the entire distance from the moment the key is pressed until the type strikes the paper. There are no joints in the type-bar ; it is im- possible for the machine to get out of alignment ; the type is forged on the type-bar, thus insuring uniformity and durability. This is a feature of no other machine. Keyboard. The keyboard of the Visible Sholes is the universal standard with one shift. The speed of the machine is limited only to the ability of the operator. The direct stroke of the type-bar renders the Visible Sholes a parti- cularly powerful manifolder. Important Points. In appearance the Visible Sholes is handsome. The nickelled and enamelled parts are given a very fine finish. These features are important Abso- lutely visible writing, simple and durable in construction, type forged on bars, powerful manifolder, very light and rapid key action, makes but little noise. Secretary. 1 he little machine known as the Eagle was controlled by an American corporation of this name, and the instrument was sometimes referred to by such title.