The News - Star, Linotype Model "L"

Datec. 1919-1924

DimensionsOverall (including base): 227 × 136 × 135 cm (2.27 × 1.36 × 1.35 m)

Credit LineGift of Bill Seaton, 1999

Object number1999.016.001

Label TextThe linotype machine mechanized typesetting, which reduced the time it took to create newspapers. The linotype cast each line of type from a reservoir of hot lead located on the machine. As the operator typed out an individual line of copy from a news story, tiny molds of each letter were released from a case mounted on the top of the machine and allowed to slide into a holder which was then filled with hot lead. A single piece of metal, a slug, was produced made up of the words from the line of copy that the operator had typed out. When cool, the slugs were arranged into stories, proofed and then assembled into pages. The molds, known as matrices, were then returned to their correct place in the case mechanically. After each edition was put out, the slugs were melted down for reuse. The linotype machine was approximately five times as fast as hand setting, allowing for an increase in newspaper size and in the amount of advertising.

NameMachine, Type Casting