Wells Press, 1819-1832

01

Artifact Overview

The Wells press was one of the most popular toggle-joint hand-printing presses of the early 19th century. Its iron frame and lever system improved upon the common wooden frame and screw press, doubling the speed of printing. In 1870, this particular press printed the first newspaper in Monroeville, Ohio, and in 1876, performed the same task in Attica, Ohio.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Printing press

Date Made

1819-1832

Creator Notes

Made by John I. Wells in Hartford, Connecticut. Patented by John I. Wells.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

33.268.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Iron (Metal)
Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 72 in
Width: 38.5 in
Depth: 78.5 in