In the Making: The Last Typewriter Repair Shop

For 45 years, Tom Furrier has been repairing typewriters throughout Boston and beyond—serving a range of clients from institutions like NBSS to personal typewriter enthusiasts. He’s worked on everything from classic Royals to IBM Selectrics.

Tom started with Cambridge Typewriter Co.‘s original founder Ed Vanderwalle in 1980, and later bought the shop in 1995. He expanded the business, continuing to offer repair services for typewriters even as personal computers became widespread. After recently announcing his retirement and the closure of Cambridge Typewriter after 57 years in business, typewriter fans have flocked to his Arlington shop to collect these rare machines.

Tom will join us at NBSS for a conversation about “Meaningful Work,” reflecting on his lifelong dedication to this iconic communication tool.

Live streamed from NBSS
Virtual, free, and open to all

Image courtesy Wicked Local

This conversation is part of In the Making, a public programs series where we connect with a range of new voices, fields, and perspectives. Learn more on the series homepage.