Okay, fellow pop culture aficionados and history buffs, get ready to dive deep into a side of Tom Hanks you might not know, but absolutely need to! We all know him as the Academy Award-winning actor, the guy who makes us laugh, cry, and believe in the human spirit. But beyond his global stardom lies a truly fascinating, deeply personal passion: a love affair with antique typewriters that spans decades and literally hundreds of machines. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a profound connection to art, engineering, and a bygone era.
Imagine a world where every word you type is a tangible, one-of-a-kind piece of art. That’s the world Tom Hanks lives in, fueled by the rhythmic clack-clack-clack of his cherished typewriters. He’s been collecting these mechanical marvels since he was a teenager, amassing a collection so significant it’s inspired books, apps, documentaries, and even museum exhibitions. It’s more than just vintage tech; for Hanks, these machines represent permanence, creativity, and a tangible link to history in a rapidly digitizing world.
Join us as we pull back the curtain on this incredible collection, exploring the origins of his passion, the unique philosophy that drives his collecting, and how these beautiful machines have become an integral part of his life, influencing his creative endeavors from screenplays to apps. Get ready to have your mind blown by the intricate beauty and personal stories behind some of the most iconic typewriters cherished by Hollywood’s favorite everyman.
1. **The Lifelong Passion: How Tom Hanks Started Collecting Typewriters**It’s hard to imagine Tom Hanks as anything other than the grounded, relatable star we all adore, but his journey to collecting typewriters began in his youth, rooted in a very human need for stability. He first started collecting when he was 19, a time in his life marked by frequent changes and moves. This wasn’t just a passing fancy; it was a means to stay grounded amidst a childhood that lacked permanence, as he himself explained, “I had nothing, actually, that stayed with me all through my life.”
Growing up, the actor moved around constantly, which meant he lacked tangible links to his earliest memories. He poignantly stated, “I don’t have anything from when I was 5 years old. I don’t have anything from when I was 3.” This sense of not having anything concrete from his formative years clearly left an imprint. Finding these mechanical wonders offered him something stable, something he could keep and cherish regardless of where life took him.
His decision to start collecting typewriters at such a pivotal age speaks volumes about their significance to him. They weren’t just objects; they were anchors, providing a sense of continuity and ownership that had been missing. This initial desire for grounding evolved into a profound appreciation, laying the foundation for what would become one of Hollywood’s most unique and impressive collections, initially numbering in the “hundreds.”
This deep-seated need for continuity transformed into a true passion for these analog machines. It’s a testament to how even the simplest objects can hold immense personal meaning, especially for someone navigating constant change. For Hanks, typewriters became more than just writing tools; they became symbols of stability, enduring through the many chapters of his life.
2. **Art & Engineering: Tom Hanks’ Philosophy on Typewriters**Tom Hanks isn’t just a collector; he’s a true connoisseur who articulates a profound philosophy behind his fascination with typewriters. He describes them as “brilliant combinations of art and engineering,” highlighting their dual nature as both aesthetically pleasing objects and meticulously crafted machines. This perspective elevates them beyond mere tools, recognizing the genius embedded in their design and functionality.
His appreciation extends to the unique output each machine produces, emphasizing the individuality of every typed page. “Every time you type something on a typewriter, it is a one-of-a-kind work of art,” he told The New York Times. This statement encapsulates the tactile and ephemeral beauty of analog writing, where each strike of the key leaves an indelible mark, distinct from the uniform precision of digital text.
Hanks further elaborated on this unique quality, noting that “Every machine is as individual as a set of fingerprints.” This comparison beautifully illustrates how each typewriter possesses its own distinct character, from the subtle variations in its typeface to the nuanced impression it makes on paper. It’s this irreplaceable individuality that makes each piece a truly personal artifact, a direct extension of the writer’s hand.
His connection isn’t just intellectual; it’s visceral. He finds a deep sense of calm and reassurance in simply owning them. “I’m soothed by having it. I’m soothed by knowing that I can take it anywhere with me,” he shared. This speaks to the comfort and familiarity these machines provide, offering a tangible presence in his life that digital devices, for all their convenience, simply cannot replicate.
3. **From Hundreds to One: The Evolution of His Collection**Starting with a simple desire for stability, Tom Hanks’ typewriter collection rapidly grew to an astonishing scale. As The New York Times reported, he eventually amassed a “huge quantity of typewriters,” initially numbering in the “hundreds.” Imagine shelves upon shelves, rooms filled with these beautiful, clacking machines, each with its own story and character. It truly reflects the depth of his initial passion.
However, as life progressed and perhaps a sense of stability settled in, Hanks’ approach to his collection began to evolve. In a fascinating turn, he revealed that he had started to give away some of his typewriters because he was “feeling very stable.” This shift from accumulation to generous distribution marks a new chapter in his collecting journey, reflecting a mature perspective on his cherished possessions.
By 2019, his collection had reportedly dwindled to about 120 machines, a significant reduction from the hundreds he once owned. But his ultimate goal is even more striking: he plans to cut down his current collection to “just one specific model.” This desire for singularity is a powerful statement about finding the perfect, essential machine that encapsulates all he loves about typewriters.
The chosen one? The iconic Olivetti Lettera 22. This particular model, which is also on display at the MoMA in New York City, holds special significance for him. It’s a testament to his refined taste and deep understanding of typewriter history, choosing a machine renowned for its elegance, portability, and excellent design as the ultimate embodiment of his lifelong passion.
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4. **The Hanx Writer App: Bringing Analog to Digital**In a world increasingly dominated by digital screens, Tom Hanks, the ultimate analog enthusiast, found a way to bridge the gap between his love for typewriters and modern technology. Recognizing the charm and unique tactile experience of typing, he ingeniously created an app called Hanx Writer. This innovative application allows users to experience the delightful nostalgia of a mechanical typewriter right on their digital devices.
The Hanx Writer app doesn’t just simulate the appearance of a typewriter; it meticulously recreates the full sensory experience. Users can type out messages and documents in an authentic typewriter font, complete with the satisfying click-clack sounds and the distinct “ding” at the end of each line. It’s a brilliant fusion of old-school charm and new-school convenience, making the magic of typewriters accessible to a whole new generation.
This venture highlights Hanks’s desire to share his passion beyond just physical machines. By offering a digital interpretation, he introduces the unique aesthetics and auditory pleasure of typewriters to a wider audience, demonstrating that the essence of these machines can transcend their physical form. It’s an example of how a true enthusiast can adapt their passion for the digital age, proving that the love for typewriters is alive and well, even in virtual spaces.
The success of Hanx Writer also underscores the enduring appeal of analog experiences in a hyper-digital world. It serves as a playful reminder of the beauty in imperfection, the charm of deliberate keystrokes, and the tangible feel of creating something unique, even when it’s all happening on a screen. Hanks truly offers a “best of both worlds” scenario for aspiring writers and nostalgic souls alike.
5. **”Uncommon Type”: Typewriters in His Literary World**Tom Hanks’s love for typewriters isn’t confined to collecting or app development; it permeates his creative work, notably inspiring his critically acclaimed story collection, “Uncommon Type.” Published in 2017, this book famously features a typewriter in every single plot, making the machines central characters and narrative devices within his imaginative tales. It’s a unique tribute from a writer to his muse.
The cover of “Uncommon Type” itself is a nod to his collection, green-lighting an image of key caps from his vintage Windsor model for its design. This thoughtful detail provides a visual link to his personal passion, inviting readers to literally touch a piece of his collection as they engage with his stories. It’s a subtle yet powerful statement about the inseparable connection between the actor, his writing, and his beloved machines.
Beyond the pages of his book, Hanks is known for using typewriters for his personal correspondence and other forms of writing. This isn’t merely a stylistic choice; it’s a testament to his belief in the distinct quality and permanence of typewritten words. It shows that for him, the act of typing on these machines is an integral part of his creative process and personal expression, not just a nostalgic indulgence.
His literary endeavor, “Uncommon Type,” demonstrates how deeply his fascination with typewriters runs. They aren’t just display pieces; they are instruments of storytelling, both in the literal sense of his writing and in the metaphorical sense of the historical narratives they embody. It’s a beautiful intertwining of personal passion and artistic output, proving that sometimes, the best inspiration comes from the things we cherish most.
6. **”California Typewriter”: Championing the Analog in Film**Tom Hanks’s dedication to the art and legacy of typewriters extends beyond his personal collection and literary projects, reaching the silver screen in a powerful way. In 2016, he made a prominent appearance in “California Typewriter,” a documentary that lovingly explores the world of these vintage machines and the passionate community that keeps them alive. His involvement instantly elevated the film, drawing significant attention to a niche, yet incredibly rich, subculture.
The documentary centers on a holdout typewriter shop in Northern California, serving as a beacon for enthusiasts who cherish these compact engineering feats. Hanks’s presence in the film highlights not only his personal admiration but also the shared sentiment among other boldface wordsmiths who love typewriters. He’s in good company with notable figures like David McCullough, John Mayer, and the late Sam Shepard, all of whom appreciate the tangible beauty of typewritten prose.
His appearance in “California Typewriter” cemented his role as an unofficial ambassador for the analog movement, championing the continued relevance and charm of these machines in an increasingly digital landscape. He lent his considerable star power to advocate for the preservation of a craft and the enduring appeal of physical objects, demonstrating that some traditions are simply too beautiful to fade away.
This cinematic endorsement speaks volumes about Hanks’s genuine enthusiasm. It’s not just about owning typewriters; it’s about celebrating their history, their design, and their place in the ongoing narrative of human creativity. His participation helped shine a spotlight on the unique magic of typewriters, inspiring a new wave of appreciation for these wonderful mechanical devices.
Okay, so we’ve already taken a deep dive into Tom Hanks’s personal universe of clacking keys and ink ribbons. We know his journey, his philosophy, and how these mechanical marvels have shaped his creative world. But what happens when a passion this grand spills over into the public eye? That’s where things get even more exciting, because Tom isn’t just hoarding his treasures; he’s sharing them with the world, making sure these beautiful machines get the recognition they deserve!
Get ready to explore the stunning public showcases, the incredible stories behind some truly iconic models, and the heartwarming generosity that has earned Tom Hanks the ultimate title among typewriter enthusiasts. This isn’t just a collection; it’s a cultural phenomenon, and our favorite actor is at the heart of it all.
7. **The Grand Unveiling: “Some of Tom’s Typewriters” Exhibition**Imagine walking into a space filled with the very typewriters that have brought so much joy and inspiration to Tom Hanks himself! This dream became a reality with the exhibition “Some of Tom’s Typewriters,” hosted at The Church in Sag Harbor. It’s a testament to Hanks’s incredible generosity, as he loaned 35 examples from his personal collection for this spectacular show. Talk about star power, even for inanimate objects!
This wasn’t just a haphazard display; it was a carefully curated experience. Artist Eric Fischl, cofounder of The Church, orchestrated the exhibit. He recognized that typewriters, with their “incredible design evolution,” perfectly fit the cultural center’s commitment to exploring the intersection of art and material culture. It’s a fantastic example of how everyday objects can transcend their utility to become genuine works of art.
Fischl’s inspiration for approaching Hanks came directly from seeing the actor in the “California Typewriter” documentary, where he realized this guy was a “total typewriter weenie.” This personal connection, facilitated by mutual friends like Steven Spielberg, made Hanks “incredibly responsive and generous” in sharing his beloved machines. It truly highlights the camaraderie within the typewriter community and Hanks’s willingness to contribute.
8. **Behind the Scenes: The Immersive Vision of the Exhibition**The “Some of Tom’s Typewriters” exhibition wasn’t just about the machines; it was about the *experience*. Simon Doonan, the former creative director of Barney’s and now a celebrated author, took on the task of designing a whimsically immersive installation. His involvement brought a unique flair for display, transforming the viewing of these typewriters into an art form itself.
Doonan, who describes the typewriter as “the soundtrack to the 20th century,” was captivated by the sheer variety and exquisite design of the machines, ranging from “19th-century Edwardian models to electric ones.” He emphasized their universal role, noting that “until a certain point, every screenplay, final demand, love letter, or hate mail was written on them.” This perspective underlines the deep historical and emotional resonance these devices hold.
To truly immerse visitors, the installation featured a rolling video montage showcasing typewriters in iconic cinematic moments. Picture Ruby Keeler tap-dancing on a giant typewriter in 1937’s *Ready Willing and Able*, or the unforgettable scene of Jack Nicholson in *The Shining*. There was also Jane Fonda as Lillian Hellman hurling her typewriter through a window in *Julia*. These clips beautifully illustrated the typewriter’s indelible mark on pop culture.
Further enhancing the ambiance, “peans to the typewriter from advertising’s golden age” provided a nostalgic backdrop to the shimmering, museum-style vitrines that enveloped each machine. This intricate design, blending visual storytelling with historical context, allowed attendees to appreciate not just Hanks’s collection, but the broader cultural impact of the typewriter. It was truly a feast for the senses, bringing these vintage beauties to life.
9. **Whispers of History: Typewriters and Their Literary Echoes**Tom Hanks’s collection isn’t just a personal treasure trove; it’s a living museum of literary history, each machine carrying intimations of the great minds who once might have used similar models. It’s truly fascinating to see how a piece of machinery can bridge the gap between us and literary giants. This connection gives each typewriter an almost mythical quality, making you wonder what stories they could tell.
Take, for instance, Hanks’s Corona No. 3, which instantly evokes the rugged brilliance of Ernest Hemingway, who famously favored one. Or consider his Hermes 3000, a model that whispers tales of literary titans such as Truman Capote, John Cheever, Jack Kerouac, and Sylvia Plath. Imagine the masterpieces that flowed from fingertips onto paper using these very designs! It’s enough to send shivers down any literature lover’s spine.
Beyond the literary giants, Hanks’s collection also celebrates design icons. His IBM Selectric, for example, directly “hews to Eliot Noyes’s prototype,” a testament to groundbreaking industrial design. And who could forget his vibrant, bright red Olivetti Valentine, a machine that boldly “evokes Ettore Sottsass,” known for its pop art aesthetic and portability? These aren’t just tools; they are celebrated design statements.
These specific examples from Hanks’s collection highlight how typewriters are more than just functional devices; they are tangible links to human ingenuity, artistic expression, and the enduring power of the written word. Each machine tells a story, not just of its mechanics, but of the cultural moments and creative spirits it represents. It’s a remarkable way to appreciate the deep intertwining of technology and art.
10. **The Ultimate Fan Mail: Tom Hanks’s Generous Typewriter Giveaways**Just when you thought Tom Hanks couldn’t get any cooler, he ups the ante with an act of generosity that’s truly heartwarming and quintessentially Tom Hanks. Beyond loaning machines for exhibitions, he’s been *mailing out typewriters* from his personal collection to shops around the country! Yes, you read that right — he’s literally sending these cherished antiques to appreciative homes, unannounced. Talk about a surprise delivery!
One lucky recipient was Tom Furrier, owner of Cambridge Typewriter in Massachusetts, who received an Olympia SM4 typewriter from the early 1960s. Can you imagine opening a package and finding a vintage typewriter, personally gifted by Tom Hanks? Furrier reported that these machines are “just showing up on doorsteps unannounced,” a delightful mystery for the typewriter community.
Hanks doesn’t just send the typewriters; he includes a personal touch that makes the gift even more special. Each machine arrives signed and nestled in green towels bearing the logo of his production company, Playtone, accompanied by a heartfelt personal letter. His letter to Furrier, charmingly complete with a couple of typos (because hey, even Hanks knows the struggle of analog typing!), read: “It is yours now. Take good care of it and halp [sic] it keep doing it’s [sic] job for another hundred years.” It’s an instruction and a blessing, all in one.
This incredible gesture underscores Hanks’s deep commitment to preserving the legacy of typewriters and fostering the community around them. By sharing his collection, he ensures these beautiful machines continue to be appreciated, used, and cared for by others who share his passion. It’s more than just a donation; it’s an invitation to keep the analog dream alive, one click-clack at a time.
11. **Beyond the Collection: Tom Hanks, the Reliable Correspondent**While you might need to own an antique storefront to be on the receiving end of one of Hanks’s typewriter giveaways, there’s another incredibly charming way to interact with the man himself. Turns out, Tom Hanks isn’t just generous with his machines; he’s also a surprisingly active and “reliable correspondent” when it comes to old-fashioned mail. Yes, he actually writes letters back!
This little tidbit, shared by recipients of his gifted typewriters, reveals a deeper layer of Hanks’s connection to the written word. It’s not enough for him to collect and celebrate typewriters; he actively uses them, even for personal replies. In an age of instant messages and emails, the idea of receiving a typewritten letter from a Hollywood superstar is genuinely thrilling and wonderfully retro.
This personal habit further cements his status as a true analog enthusiast. It shows that for Tom Hanks, the act of putting words to paper through a typewriter is an integral part of his life and personality, not just a hobby. It’s a tangible link between his personal passion and his interactions with the wider world, reflecting his belief in the permanence and artistry of each typed word.
So, if you’re a fan and a budding writer (or even just someone with a burning question for the star), dust off your stationery! Sending a letter to Tom Hanks isn’t just sending fan mail; it’s participating in a cherished, timeless form of communication that he clearly values. You might just get a one-of-a-kind, typewritten response back, a unique artifact from the patron saint of typewriters himself!
12. **The Patron Saint of Typewriters: Solidifying His Legacy**It’s clear by now that Tom Hanks’s dedication to typewriters isn’t just a quirky celebrity hobby. It’s a profound, influential, and incredibly generous passion that has earned him a truly special title: “If there was a patron saint of typewriters, he was it,” as Scott Connors of Stephentown Typewriter Company so aptly put it to ABC. This isn’t hyperbole; it’s a well-deserved recognition of his unique contribution.
Hanks has become the ultimate ambassador for these elegant machines. Through his collecting, his writing, his app, his film appearances, his museum exhibitions, and his heartwarming acts of generosity, he has single-handedly elevated the typewriter from a relic of the past to a celebrated piece of art and engineering. He’s reminded us all of the tactile joy and enduring beauty of analog creation.
His impact extends far beyond mere nostalgia. By sharing his collection and his passion so openly, he inspires new generations to look beyond digital screens and appreciate the craftsmanship, history, and distinct character of typewriters. He’s ensuring that the rhythmic click-clack and satisfying ding of these machines continue to resonate, preserving a piece of cultural history that might otherwise fade into obscurity.
From a young boy seeking stability to a global superstar sharing his cherished artifacts, Tom Hanks’s journey with typewriters is a beautiful narrative of passion, preservation, and generosity. He’s not just collecting machines; he’s collecting and sharing stories, memories, and a tangible link to a rich past. He truly is the ultimate champion of the analog world, solidifying his legacy as the ‘patron saint’ of typewriters for many years to come.
So, the next time you hear a faint clack-clack-clack, or see a beautifully designed vintage machine, remember Tom Hanks. His lifelong love affair has not only amassed an incredible collection but has also sparked a wider appreciation for these mechanical wonders. Who knows, maybe his passion will even inspire you to experience the unique magic of a typewriter for yourself! It’s a tangible connection to creativity, history, and a charmingly deliberate way of putting words out into the world. You might just find your own stable, one-of-a-kind connection.
