While perusing through an antique and
craft shop in Stanley, WI last week (such a GEM of a store!), I came
across an old Remington Rand Deluxe Model typewriter. When I saw the
price tag ($25.00!!), I hardly hesitated.
“I'm a writer,” I thought. “I
need this.”
At the cash register, I struck up a
conversation with the women behind the counter. She estimated the
typewriter was from the 1920's. It was in great condition. The
black and red ribbon was frayed slightly in the middle but still
punched thick, bold letters onto the crinkled white piece of paper.
Some of the keys stuck. The metal joints and hinges ached for a
thorough dusting.
“Ten years ago, you couldn't give a
typewriter away!” she exclaimed. “I've thrown hundreds away over
the years. This one though, yeah. This one's in good shape.” A
Stanley native, Jean worked at the local prison for her “day job”
and antiqued on the weekends for the love of it.
“So, you're a writer?” she
questioned aloud after asking me what I do. “Boy, if you ever want
stories, I gotta lotta stories. Always thought I should write a book
about 'em. Gimme a call sometime, honey. Yeah, I got a lotta
stories for ya.”
I grinned. This isn't work. This is
pure pleasure.
Today, I set out on my road trip west
to Colorado. I only saw it fitting to embark on this new adventure
with the above quote by the celebrated writer, Henry David Thoreau.
And just look at those keys! Isn't it
a beauty?
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