In Queens County, Rachel Spence is meticulously cleaning a disassembled typewriter that she retrieved from a bin in a house by the ocean. She mentions that typewriters often face issues due to accumulated grime, old oil, and nicotine, which she diligently cleans off. Spence’s venture into typewriter restoration and sales stemmed from challenges she faced during the early stages of the pandemic, including losing her job and battling COVID-19.
Having developed an interest in typewriters as a hobby to cope with these difficulties, Spence established Ocean View Typewriters. Her business now caters to customers nationwide, resonating with individuals who appreciate the tactile connection and simplicity of crafting words without digital distractions. Spence, who had no prior experience with typewriters before relocating to Nova Scotia, has found solace in the mechanical intricacies of these devices.
Transitioning from a career in publishing in Toronto to a quieter lifestyle in Port Mouton, N.S., Spence delved into collecting and refurbishing typewriters from different eras. She sources these machines from various outlets, restores them meticulously, and offers them for sale at prices ranging from a few hundred dollars upwards, depending on their condition and brand.
Spence notes a diverse customer base that includes individuals rediscovering typewriters from their past and parents introducing their children to these classic devices. The absence of modern conveniences like autocorrect and predictive text on typewriters fosters a sense of creativity and acceptance of imperfections, making them appealing to people seeking a break from technology.
Noteworthy figures like actor Tom Hanks, known for his typewriter enthusiasm, and musician Taylor Swift, who featured a typewriter in a music video, have contributed to the resurgence of interest in typewriters among different age groups. Spence emphasizes the enduring charm of typewriters, attributing their appeal to their historical significance in shaping societal developments through the 20th century.
For Spence personally, the process of repairing typewriters serves as a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to engage with a tangible craft during her recovery from long COVID. She appreciates the sense of accomplishment that comes from physically creating a finished product and believes that the enduring allure of typewriters lies in their ability to offer a unique and captivating blend of nostalgia and creativity in a digital age.