Today's topic are musings about Bob Montgomery's sister Joyce. I only knew Bob’s sister, Joyce, over the phone. Joyce lived in Bremerton with Bob and their mother then Joyce moved to Lakeport, California in the 1950's after working at the typewriter shop with Bob. When I first started working at the shop I'd chat over the phone with Joyce not knowing at first she was Bob's sister. Joyce often would call the shop late in the night as Bob used to … [Read more...]

I'm not sure how many gallons of white out was used with this Olivetti Linea 98 typewriter. Every paper roller was covered. Indeed, the platen, keys, segment, you name it was covered as if a Seagull was in the home. … [Read more...]

The shop experiences a normal summer slow down as folks concentrate on family and outdoor activities. The memory of happy winter times using a typewriter fades quickly as the weather improves. That means I too take a bit of time for family. This summer, June 21 to September 23, the shop is open Wednesdays through Saturdays 10AM to 4PM. … [Read more...]

What is it with Hermes platens? This is the third Hermes 3000 machine I've had in for service in three weeks where a platen has tiny tiny cracks across the surface. The print on paper is just fine so I'm a bit reluctant to recommend replacing with new. What a strange thing. … [Read more...]

I get sooo many smelly, moldy, funky odorous machines in the shop so that's the first thing I think about when opening a typewriter case. In this case (ha, ha), I've been working to make rubber feet that others do not sell. Today, I finished a silicone mold of Smith-Corona feet for the 6 series machines. Normally those feet are in fantastic shape. Lately I've come across a few where the feet are disintegrated. Since no one else is selling … [Read more...]

It is unsurprising I use quite a variety of hand tools servicing and repairing machines. Many are legacy tools no longer manufactured. I know many of you are typewriter enthusiasts and enjoy working on your own machines. This article is for you. For vintage tools, antique shops and online auction sites are your scourge. Read any of the typewriter forums and folks salivate at the chance to own forming tools. Those speciality tools are a … [Read more...]

I spend a fair bit of my day cleaning machines. I admit, cleaning key tops is very satisfying. The job is simple and gratification is immediate. That's all, just sharing my cleaning jones. … [Read more...]

I've often thought that I too could make those wood Oliver typewriter ribbon spool hubs. Lately, every time I want to buy just the hubs, my supplier is out of stock. My first attempt is adequate and fits nicely. The final product will use a GREEN tack to hold the ribbon. … [Read more...]

Hello everyone. Typewriter Fever and Bremerton Office Machine Company are sponsoring our first Type-In! It is Sunday, November 18 at 11AM. All are welcome. Bring a typewriter, friends and kids.  One of our typewriter enthusiasts may even show slides of Herman Price's typewriter shindig in WV. Many are bringing typewriters to show. The event is located at 245 4th Street, Bremerton, WA on the 5th floor in the nice room at the end of the … [Read more...]

Occasionally, I publish some of Mr. Montgomery's musings edited only for grammatical errors. I’m sharing this one since Mr. Montgomery’s interment at the Ivy Green Cemetery in Bremerton, complete with military honors, is this Friday, October 5th at 1PM, 1401 Naval Ave., Bremerton, WA. RETURN HOME from the WAR in EUROPE - 1946 The war was finally over, even the Japanese had surrendered. The US Army in Europe had already been sending soldiers … [Read more...]