06/12/2026
Printers need to check their work for typos. Proofing printer’s prior to the mid-19th century required the type to be placed in a galley, inked it, and place a sheet of paper, and strike it with a mallet. The quality of the image varied and the technique required a skilled hand to create the image while not smashing the type in the process.
In 1850, R. Hoe & Company made a press that would proof and with superior results. It was called a galley proof press and consisted of an iron bed, about 10” x 38,” with iron rails. Instead of a mallet, a the heavy cylinder would be rolled along to print an image on the paper. Probably one of the simplest presses ever designed. The legend goes that one of Hoe’s employees came up with the idea by accident when a cylinder rolled over some type.
Unfortunately few of Hoe's presses survive today. Because of its simplicity and low cost, the press was widely copied.
In the 1870’s, patent medicine doctor Dr. Dexter Miles approached the Challenge Machinery Co. with an idea. He asked them to make proof presses for him but rather than have the name Challenge cast into the frame he wanted his name and product, Miles Nervine at one end and Miles Pain Pills at the other. Dr. Miles traveled the country offering his proof presses to editors in exchange for free advertising, promoting the curative power of Miles Nervine. Though probably closer to whiskey than medicine, Miles’ advertising met some degree of success since many of the presses survive today. The presses can be found among hobbyists and collectors today.
At the Museum, we have a rather large 20” x 45” proof press originally part of the LA Times newspaper, when the founder General Otis Chandler was still around. A former employee of the paper saved the press from destruction, stashed press and cylinder underneath his house for years. After becoming aware of Ernie Lindner, the employee mentioned the press, it was dragged out from its secure location and added to Ernie’s collection.
Learn more about this press and many others on our website printmuseum.org/collection
