Columbian Printing Press

Although the Columbian press was designed in America, this one was built under license in 1853 and sold by Harrold & Sons of Farringdon Street London. This particular press was used by the Westmorland Gazette newspaper which was set up in 1818 by William Wordsworth's friend, Thomas de Quincey. It continued to be used as a proofing press until 1970 when the Westmorland Gazette offices became fully mechanised. Its continued use is a testament to sturdy and practical Victorian engineering which managed to look elegant at the same time. The counterweight is in the form of the American eagle which is clutching a thunderbolt, olive branch, and the Cornucopia of plenty in its talons, representing the balance of power.
Further decoration can be found on the supporting pillars and the lever and include a Caduceus, the staff of Hermes, the messenger of the ancient Greek Gods and serpants which are symbols of wisdom.

"If the merits of a machine were to be appreciated wholly by its ornamental appearance, certainly no other press could enter into competition with the Columbian."
(T. C. Hansard, Typographia, 1825)

The press remains in servicable condition to this day.