Adding Machine

Object ID: ​1972.120.968

Before the days of cell phones, personal computers, and even hand-held calculators, the adding machine was the device of choice for people who wished to remove human error from their calculations. This particular adding machine was likely made in the early twentieth century and was used up until the 1960s by the Powell River Company and later MacMillan Bloedel.

The first adding machine was made in the 17th century, but it was not until the 19th century that they became available commercially.