The Forgotten Tools of Typing: Typewriter Eraser Brushes

What Are Typewriter Eraser Brushes?

The circular objects in the image are typewriter erasers, which came with a small brush attached to them. The erasers themselves were made from soft materials like rubber, often infused with fine abrasives.

This combination was designed to remove ink or typewriter ribbon marks from paper, which was the
primary method of correcting mistakes on a typed document before the advent of white-out or digital editing.

The small brush on the tool was used to gently whisk away the eraser debris left on the paper after erasing a letter or a word. In an age when typewriters ruled the business and literary worlds, these tools were essential to maintaining neat and professional-looking work.

A Snapshot in Time: When Eraser Brushes Were Essential

In the early to mid-20th century, typewriter eraser brushes were as common as correction fluid or digital backspace keys are today. Every typist had one on their desk because, despite their best efforts, mistakes in typing were inevitable. These tools allowed for correcting those mistakes without the need to retype an entire
page.

Back then, carbon paper was often used for making copies, so one mistake could mean fixing multiple sheets of paper. Eraser brushes were gentle enough not to tear the delicate paper yet effective at removing the erroneous marks.

The Decline of the Typewriter Era

With the rise of word processors and eventually personal computers, typewriters
quickly became obsolete. The need for such specialized erasers faded as digital
text allowed for instantaneous editing. Today, these erasers are rare relics from a
time when typing was both an art and a skill.

For those who remember using these eraser brushes, seeing one today is a nostalgic reminder of how much the world of writing and editing has evolved. The phrase “times have changed” has never been truer, especially when comparing the
challenges of fixing a typewritten document to the ease of modern technology’s undo button.

A Niche Collectible

Today, typewriter eraser brushes are considered collectibles. Vintage enthusiasts and lovers of retro office supplies value them for their simplicity and effectiveness. Though they might look out of place in a world dominated by digital devices, they serve as a testament to the ingenuity of past generations and the unique tools
that once supported everyday tasks.

Conclusion: From Essential to Obsolete

For those who’ve never used a typewriter, the tools in the image may seem mysterious, even obsolete. But for older generations, they bring back memories of the rhythmic clacking of typewriter keys, the smell of ink ribbons, and the ever- present eraser brush sitting nearby. Times have certainly changed, and as with many innovations, what was once essential now rests quietly in history’s archives

YOU WON’T BELIEVE THE TEXT THIS TEEN SENT HIS MOM MOMENTS BEFORE A DEADLY SHOOTING

A tragic incident took place at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, where a 14-year-old boy sent a message to his mom before he was killed in a mass shooting. His heartbroken sister has also spoken about the terrible event.

The boy, Mason Schermerhorn, was one of four victims who lost their lives in the shooting. He had texted his mom while hiding in a school restroom, but sadly, he didn’t make it out. Ronald Clark, a youth minister and chaplain, shared this information. He also mentioned how he tried to help search for Mason during the chaos of the shooting.

This story has left many grieving and searching for answers.

On the morning of September 4, when the shooting happened, Ronald Clark had stopped at a store on his way home. He received a call from his wife, who told him about the shooting at Apalachee High School. Clark immediately went to the school and offered his help to the police officers who were working at the command post.

YouTube/FOX 5 Atlanta

Clark was assigned to assist the teams working on the investigation. After about an hour, he began encountering injured students who were in shock.

He described the situation as “challenging” and mentioned that although he wanted to help everyone, he understood that there was only so much he could do in such a large-scale tragedy.

YouTube/FOX 5 Atlanta

Clark also highlighted the bravery of the victims who survived. He was impressed by their courage as they shared their experiences with him, which was part of their effort to cope with the trauma they had endured.

Getty Images

During the chaos, Clark tried to assist Mason Schermerhorn’s mom, whom he knew through work, in finding her son. She told Clark that she believed Mason, who was autistic, was safe because he had texted her from the restroom.

Clark remembered the mother saying, “Hey, I can’t find him. I’m just here to pick him up. I know he’s safe. He texted me that he’s in the restroom. Can you please help?”

YouTube/FOX 5 Atlanta

The youth minister also highlighted what a great kid he was told Schermerhorn was, adding, “He […] loved life, didn’t have any issues with anyone. He was autistic, but that didn’t stop his glow.”

The youth minister also emphasized what a wonderful kid Mason Schermerhorn was. He said, “He […] loved life, didn’t have any issues with anyone. He was autistic, but that didn’t stop his glow.”

X/@BrittanyEdney

On September 5, WSB-TV released messages sent between a 14-year-old boy and his mom on Instagram. Although they didn’t reveal the boy’s identity, the messages provide a glimpse into how frightening and intense the situation was for those involved.

The boy reportedly texted his mom, “School shooting rn. I’m scared, pls, I’m not joking.” When she told him she was leaving work, he heartbreakingly replied with, “I love you.” In response to her question about where he was, he chillingly wrote, “Class. Someone’s dead.”

The 14-year-old shooter, Colt Gray, is expected to be charged with murder as an adult.

Following Mason Schermerhorn’s death, his sister, Alanna Wallace, has spoken about the tragedy in an interview with Fox 5 News’ Brittany Edney.

Wallace shared that her brother was a wonderful person who had a profound impact on many people, echoing the sentiments expressed by Clark.

YouTube/FOX 5 Atlanta

Wallace, along with her family, shared touching videos of Mason Schermerhorn with Edney. She also talked about the hobbies Mason had recently picked up. He had started learning to play the trumpet because he wanted to follow in his big sister’s footsteps, as she had learned to play the instrument first.

Mason Schermerhorn also loved playing video games on his PS5, exploring virtual fantasy worlds with his VR headset, and visiting amusement parks. Wallace described her late little brother as a positive, energetic person and expressed how she can’t imagine life without him.

When asked what she wants the world to know about Mason Schermerhorn, Wallace said, “That he loved everyone […] No matter what they had, what disabilities, he loved everyone for them.”

Regarding how Wallace is coping with the tragedy, Edney shared that Wallace has been trying to channel her brother’s positive energy. Despite being her little brother, Mason had a protective, big brother vibe and always looked out for her.

YouTube/FOX 5 Atlanta

Edney also noted that when she spoke to Wallace, the sister was surrounded by about eight friends who were there to support her. They gathered in a circle with some donuts, reminiscing about Mason Schermerhorn’s life and reassuring Wallace that they were there for her. Wallace mentioned that this sense of community is what is helping her get through this difficult time.

Our deepest condolences go out to Schermerhorn’s family and all the families affected by this horrific tragedy. We pray for healing and comfort during this difficult time of grief. Rest in peace, Mason Schermerhorn, and all the other victims who lost their lives.

Related Posts

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*