Reconnecting with the Past: My Beloved 1967 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe Typewriter

Classic Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe Typewriter

Last year, while working on parts of my book, I decided to buy a manual typewriter, hoping it would help me slow down and put more thought into my writing. I purchased a brand-new Epoch manual typewriter by Royal, excited because Royal is such a well-established brand. However, I quickly discovered that modern typewriters lack the vibe and craftsmanship of the old classics.

"Royal" Epoch Manual Typewriter

Apparently, Royal, or the company using its name, sources their typewriters from the same factory as other brands available today. So, when you see new Royal Epoch, Royal Classic, The Oliver, We Are Memory Keepers, and so on, they are all essentially the same, just with different paint and branding. Unlike the old cast metal, the slugs are now made of plastic, glued unevenly to the type bars. The appearance of the typed text gives off a vibe reminiscent of the ransom notes you see on TV.

The keys are also quite hard on the fingers, with edges that are a bit sharp, so you have to type slowly and carefully. Realizing I couldn't use it long-term, I started looking for secondhand machines like the ones I remember from my childhood. There's something about those vintage typewriters that the new ones just can't replicate.

"I had the joy of purchasing a 1967-ish Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe typewriter from Classic Typewriter Co. This particular model holds a special place in my heart as it’s the same typewriter my parents owned, and it's where I first learned how to type as a kid. Seeing this vintage machine again was like reconnecting with an old friend. The sleek 1960's design, the sound of the keys clacking, and the manual return carriage bring back so many memories of my childhood, sitting at the kitchen table and later our typing desk, converted from an old Zenith Console Television, typing away on my parents' typewriter. My parents had bought the typewriter to use for their home care and landscaping business during the 1970's and early 1980's. Both my sister and I loved sitting at it, just clacking away, not realizing we were training ourselves for something that would become a part of everyday life—a computer keyboard. My typing skills excelled from a young age; in fact, my 8th-grade "business" class teacher accused me of cheating on my computer typing test before moving me to an electric typewriter with similar results. Back in the late 80's, even kids with home computers couldn't keep up with me, probably because manual typewriters do require a bit more muscle to type on.

The Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe is a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. Its robust build and reliable performance make it a cherished piece of history. I spent countless hours typing on it, practicing on letters, a few of my parents' business documents and essays, and even writing my first short stories. It’s incredible how such a simple machine can ignite a lifelong love for writing. The tactile experience of using a typewriter is something digital keyboards can’t replicate—the deliberate press of each key, the satisfying ding at the end of a line, and the rhythmic movement of the carriage returning.

Adding this typewriter to my home has not only been a nostalgic trip down memory lane but has also inspired me to incorporate more typewritten elements into my creative projects. Quite a bit of my book as well as some of the entries on my blog started out on one of my two typewriters. There’s something uniquely charming about typewritten text that adds a personal touch to letters and notes. Whether I’m using it for journaling, creating art, or just enjoying the simple pleasure of typing, my 1967 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe is my favorite of the two I own and a treasured companion that connects me to my past and fuels my passion for writing.