Lost Mechanical Comptograph Factories Of Chicago Forgotten Early Adding Machine Workshops
Chicago, once a bustling hub of innovation, played a pivotal role in the early development of adding machines. The mechanical comptograph factories scattered across the city were the birthplace of these groundbreaking devices. These early workshops, often overshadowed by more famous inventions, were crucial in shaping modern computing. Imagine walking through the streets of Chicago in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hearing the clatter of gears and levers as inventors and workers toiled away. These forgotten factories not only contributed to the city's industrial growth but also laid the foundation for today's digital calculators. Let's take a closer look at the history and significance of these early adding machine workshops in Chicago.
The Rise of Mechanical Comptographs in Chicago
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Chicago became a hub for innovation in mechanical computing. Factories producing comptographs, early adding machines, dotted the city. These devices revolutionized business operations, making calculations faster and more accurate. Let's explore some of the forgotten workshops that once thrived in Chicago.
1. Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company
Felt & Tarrant, established in 1889, was a pioneer in the field of mechanical computing. Their Comptometer became one of the most popular adding machines of its time. The factory, located on the city's west side, employed hundreds of workers who meticulously assembled these intricate devices.
2. Burroughs Adding Machine Company
Burroughs, originally founded in St. Louis, moved its operations to Chicago in the early 1900s. Known for their innovative designs, Burroughs machines were a staple in offices across America. The Chicago factory was a bustling center of activity, producing thousands of machines each year.
3. Sundstrand Adding Machine Company
Sundstrand, another key player in the mechanical computing industry, set up shop in Chicago during the early 20th century. Their machines were known for their durability and precision. The factory, located in the industrial district, was a hive of innovation and craftsmanship.
4. Victor Adding Machine Company
Victor Adding Machine Company, founded in 1918, quickly rose to prominence with their reliable and user-friendly devices. The Chicago factory was a major production site, churning out machines that found their way into businesses nationwide. Victor's commitment to quality made them a household name.
5. Monroe Calculating Machine Company
Monroe, though originally based in New Jersey, established a significant presence in Chicago. Their machines were known for their advanced features and ease of use. The Chicago factory played a crucial role in meeting the high demand for Monroe's products, contributing to the city's reputation as a center for mechanical computing.
6. Dalton Adding Machine Company
Dalton Adding Machine Company, founded in 1903, was another important player in Chicago's mechanical computing scene. Their machines were praised for their efficiency and reliability. The factory, located in the heart of the city, was a testament to Chicago's industrial prowess.
7. Wales Adding Machine Company
Wales Adding Machine Company, though less well-known, made significant contributions to the development of mechanical computing. Their factory in Chicago produced a range of innovative devices that helped streamline business operations. The company's dedication to quality and innovation left a lasting impact on the industry.
8. Remington Rand
Remington Rand, a major manufacturer of office equipment, also had a presence in Chicago. Their adding machines were known for their robustness and accuracy. The Chicago factory was a key production site, helping to cement the city's status as a leader in mechanical computing.
9. Comptograph Company
The Comptograph Company, one of the earliest manufacturers of adding machines, had its roots in Chicago. Their devices were among the first to automate the process of addition, making them a valuable tool for businesses. The factory, located in the city's industrial corridor, was a hub of innovation and activity.
10. National Cash Register Company (NCR)
NCR, though primarily known for their cash registers, also produced adding machines. Their Chicago factory was a major production center, contributing to the city's reputation as a leader in office equipment manufacturing. NCR's machines were known for their reliability and ease of use, making them a popular choice for businesses.
11. Elliott-Fisher Company
Elliott-Fisher, a company known for their bookkeeping machines, also produced adding machines in their Chicago factory. Their devices were designed to simplify complex calculations, making them an essential tool for accountants and bookkeepers. The factory was a bustling center of activity, reflecting the city's industrial might.
12. American Arithmometer Company
American Arithmometer Company, later known as Burroughs, had a significant presence in Chicago. Their machines were among the first to automate arithmetic operations, revolutionizing the way businesses handled calculations. The factory, located in the city's industrial district, was a testament to Chicago's role in the development of mechanical computing.
Rediscovering Chicago's Forgotten Comptograph Factories
Chicago's mechanical comptograph factories played a crucial role in the early development of adding machines. These forgotten workshops were once bustling hubs of innovation and industry. They contributed significantly to the city's economic growth and technological advancements.
Today, many of these factories have faded into obscurity, their stories overshadowed by modern technology. However, their impact on the world of computing and business cannot be overstated. By remembering and appreciating these early pioneers, we gain a deeper understanding of how far we've come in the realm of technology.
Next time you use a calculator or computer, take a moment to think about the mechanical comptograph and the brilliant minds behind its creation. Their legacy lives on in every digital calculation we make today.
