Historical information

Comptometers, first made in 1887, were the first key-driven mechanical calculators. The keys when pressed allow for rapid addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division that immediately add to a total. They remained a staple in business offices for high-speed calculation until the 1960s.
This comptometer was used in the office of the Newport Timber Company Limited, which survived as a locally owned and managed business for over 100 years. It was located on the corner Paine and Latrobe streets, Newport.

Physical description

Large, heavy key driven mechanical calculator with a detachable leatherette dust cover.

Inscriptions & markings

On top: "Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Co. Chicago U.S.A. Comptometer"
On panel underneath: "Comptometer Registered Trade Mark/Made in United States of America by Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company Chicago Illinois"