The 'Daisy' of the Office: Seattle's 1891 Typewriter Craze
As Seattle transitioned into a new era of business efficiency in 1891, the Remington Standard Typewriter emerged as the essential office status symbol.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
I have been for fifteen years the standard and intend to continue so. If I am not built on a pretty good model, why do the others imitate me? Imitation is the sincerest flattery. We had hoped to exhibit our two latest models of styles No. 2 and No. 5 at our new quarters in the Pioneer building. For a few days longer we will still be on deck at room 342, Seattle block. Make a good beginning for the New Year and furnish your office with the most practical and durable writing machine yet produced. Call and examine for yourself. Our latest productions are simply beyond competition. Make a point to see the new No. 5; she is a 'daisy.' We have several new lines besides the typewriter itself to offer for 1891. Among others, we would mention our drop-leaf cabinets for use with the typewriter, automatic bank punch for effectually preventing the raising of checks and drafts, typewriting papers, and supplies of all kinds. A. H. Dawson, Remington Headquarters, Room 342 Seattle block, Third Street.
“Make a point to see the new No. 5; she is a 'daisy.'”
Today's tech-saturated office landscape echoes the 1891 marketing push where the Remington typewriter was sold not just as a tool, but as the ultimate signifier of a modern, professional business. The obsession with 'efficiency' and upgrading to the latest model remains a cornerstone of the Seattle corporate identity, from the typewriter of the 19th century to the software suites of today.
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