I think that today I scored the biggest find of the summer, well, maybe the year (for me anyway!)
When I saw her, I almost didn't even go over to take a look because I thought "I'll never be able to afford it" and I want an old typewriter SO bad. Imagine my heart racing when I realized that there wasn't a "1" missing from the front of this price!
Now I'm always up for bargaining at garage sales but couldn't even bring myself to ask if they'd take less for her.
Every key intact . . . I nearly danced as I handed over the 25.00. The ladies selling her asked what I planned to do with it. They said they were surprised anyone wanted it . . . gulp. Are you kidding me? The mother and daughter went on to explain that it had belonged to their mother/grandmother, Eileen who was a secretary for the Chicago Transit Authority and it was her typewriter. They talked about how she loved (and taught both of them) shorthand and how much she loved her job. They were thrilled that it was going to someone who would love and cherish it. So of course, I HAD to name her Eileen.
I want to do some research on this and give it a good cleaning. There are lots of buttons, knobs and gadgets on it and I'd like to know what they all do/did. For now, I'm content to have her dressing up my bay window where she'll soon be joined by other vintage office items.
Great find and awesome price!!!
ReplyDeleteThat was a great find. I saw a really beat up lopsided one for 50.00 at Goodwill. As much as I love the old typewriters I had to pass on that one.That's such a sweet story about the owner. If it had belonged to my loved one I never could have parted with it. Lucky for you they aren't sentimental fools like me.
ReplyDeleteShe certainly is a beauty and an unbelievable bargain too. They're getting so expensive and hard to find for under $100. I would never be able to part with her if she belonged to my grandmother, but she's found a good home with you.
ReplyDeleteWow, you are right...The score of the year! With it's history, I am so glad it went to someone who could appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteCarol
My dad used to use an old Underwood and I was sad that when he died, my Mom gave it away. (Imagine without consulting me.) One day while out yardsaling I spied one under a table. A little boy was busy banging on it and I was afraid that it might be injured. Also was sure it would be a bit pricey. When I got up to it and rescued it from the small child it had a $5 price tag on it. Oh my, I was sure that someone else was going to grab it before I could, but I believe the angels sang that day. I walked away with a huge smile glued to my face clutching the typewriter which now sits in a place of honor. And as heavy as they are clutching isn't a stretch!! :-}
ReplyDeleteI love your typewriter. I have one just like it that my father-in-law used for years which makes it so special. By the way, I love the name. Thanks, Eileen
ReplyDeleteEileen is a beauty - be sure to give her the royal treatment!
ReplyDeleteI have 2 old typewriters - one from my hubby's aunt and another from a garage sale where I got about 8 amazing vintage things - including the typewriter - for $20!
Kelly
Great treasure and yes she does look like Royalty. I have popped in from Nifty Thrifty party. Kathy
ReplyDeleteI am so glad Eileen is going to live with someone who will treat her royally! Great find!
ReplyDeleteLucky you. I never see the big old typewriters reasonably priced.
ReplyDeleteThat indeed is the score of the year Lauren! How cool, I love it. Enjoy your 4th of July!~ XO
ReplyDeleteI love old black typewriters and found a great one last summer at a yard sale. And like you, I couldn't believe my good fortune. They were also selling a "newer" typewriter and the sellers kept asking me didn't I want the newer one instead of that old thing? LOL...... Yours is awesome!
ReplyDeleteTypewriter LOVE!!! She truly will have a ROYAL life with you!
ReplyDeleteLove it! You are so lucky! Those keys make me swoon!
ReplyDeleteHappy day to you friend!
karianne