1872 printing press remains old standby

At Kalona Graphics, the parking lot is full of vintage 1950s and 1960s cars that may run again some day.

Inside, a huge 1960s Coca-Cola sign decorates one wall.

The background music filling the air comes from the speakers of an old stereo 8-track tape player.

So, it's perfectly logical that, tucked into a corner, you'll find a treadle-operated 1872 Gordon Franklin printing press waiting to kick into action.

“Once you get the flywheel going it doesn't take much,” says shop owner Anthony Spitzer, who pumps a pedal with a foot as he hand feeds paper into the press one sheet at a time.

“You get in the rhythm of putting it in and taking it out,” he says. “It can be quite a workout.”

The music, usually classic pop, helps Anthony synchronize his movements to the press. And, even though he doesn't print much on it any more, preferring instead to use it to perforate carbonless forms, the 137-year-old machine appears to be the oldest press still running.

At least that's what Appleton, a paper company with headquarters in Appleton, Wis., declared in a contest among customers to find old presses.

Anthony received a flyer in the mail so he entered the recent contest.

“It's an old beast,” he figured, “but I don't know if it's the oldest.”

With a new compact stereo as a prize - he keeps it at home - Anthony smiles at the recognition but shrugs at the idea that something this old might not be useful.

At 48, Anthony has always appreciated yesteryear. In addition to restoring old cars - he and his father, Terry, plan to work on a 1910 Model T this winter - he rebuilds old airplanes. His office walls feature black and white photographs of World War II ships and planes. His shop is full of old equipment, from a 1980s mono-color screen Compugraphic typesetting console to an electric 1950s Heidelberg press.

“They're just amazing pieces of equipment, really,” he says. “This is 60 years old and it still doesn't bump and thump and clank like an old car.”

Newer presses, such as a two-color Hamada, help Anthony produce everything from business cards and price lists to softbound books. Yet, the old Gordon Franklin platen press, rigged with an electric motor if he see fit to use it, remains a staple at the business founded in 1973.

With just a little oil, a little grease, the old press is always good to go.

Even though Anthony uses computers, he knows there will always be a need for the printed word.

“Now,” he laughs, “everybody prints their e-mails.”