The Miller Printing Machinery Company stands as a significant name in the history of American printing, particularly renowned for its contributions to letterpress and offset printing technology. Founded in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1903, Miller Printing carved a niche for itself by producing robust and innovative printing presses that catered to a wide range of printing needs. This legacy is preserved today in the Miller Printing Machinery Company Records, an invaluable collection housed at the Senator John Heinz History Center.
A Legacy Forged in Pittsburgh’s Industrial Heartland
Originally established in Allegheny City, now part of Pittsburgh’s Northside, the Miller Printing Machinery Company quickly became a vital part of the region’s industrial landscape. Starting in 1926, Miller began manufacturing its line of automatic cylinder letterpresses, which became a cornerstone of their product offerings. Beyond letterpresses, the company diversified its production to include cutter and creaser machines, lithographic printing presses, and the Miller Saw Trimmer, showcasing its commitment to serving the multifaceted printing industry. The company’s growth was further solidified in the 1950s with the acquisition of the Printing Machinery Division of the Electric Boat Company, expanding its capabilities and market reach. Recognizing the importance of skilled operators, Miller Printing also established the Miller Pressmen’s Training School at their Pittsburgh factory. This initiative allowed pressmen from companies investing in Miller machines to gain hands-on experience before the equipment was even shipped to their facilities, ensuring smooth integration and operation.
Delving into the Miller Printing Machinery Company Records
The Miller Printing Machinery Company Records at the Heinz History Center offer a rich repository of information for anyone interested in the history of printing technology and the Miller company’s pivotal role. Dating primarily from the 1920s to the 1950s, the collection includes a diverse array of documents such as booklets, advertisements, brochures, and crucial operating manuals for the various machines produced by Miller. These materials provide detailed insights into the functionality, design, and marketing of Miller’s letterpress and offset presses. Furthermore, the archive contains captivating photographs of both the machinery itself and the employees who meticulously built them, offering a human dimension to the company’s history. Adding a personal touch are two photograph albums and a notebook belonging to R.B. Tullis, the company’s president, potentially offering unique perspectives on the company’s leadership and operations.
Preserving the Miller Printing Story for Future Generations
The Miller Printing Machinery Company Records are readily accessible for researchers and enthusiasts at the Senator John Heinz History Center. This collection serves as a primary source for understanding the evolution of printing technology in the 20th century and the significant contributions of Miller Printing. For those seeking to explore the history of American manufacturing, printing innovations, or the industrial heritage of Pittsburgh, the Miller Printing Machinery Company Records offer an unparalleled resource. To delve deeper into this fascinating collection, inquiries can be directed to the Library and Archives Division of the Senator John Heinz History Center, ensuring that the legacy of Miller Printing continues to inform and inspire.
