Tom Hanks And The Timeless Charm Of Typewriters
His fascination began in 1978 when he brought a plastic typewriter to a repair shop in Cleveland.
The shop owner told him it was just a toy and showed him what a real typewriter looked like. Hanks left with a sturdy Hermes 2000, sparking a lifelong passion for collecting these unique machines.
Over the years, Hanks has gathered more than 300 typewriters from all over the world.
His collection includes famous brands like Underwood, Olympia, Royal, and Smith Corona, as well as rare models and personal favorites.
He enjoys searching for new additions, whether at antique stores or typewriter shops. For Hanks, the hunt is as exciting as owning the machines themselves.
Why Typewriters Matter To Hanks:
Hanks loves typewriters because they are simple, reliable, and built to last. He appreciates how each machine has its own story and personality.
To him, typewriters are not just old technology—they are pieces of history that connect people to a slower, more thoughtful way of writing.
He uses them for memos, letters, and even shopping lists, enjoying the tactile feel of pressing the keys and hearing the sound of the carriage return.
Hanks does not keep his hobby to himself. He is known for sending surprise typewriters to typewriter shops and fans across the country.
Each machine comes with a personal letter from Hanks, encouraging the new owner to care for it and keep it working for years to come.
These acts have made him a celebrity in the typewriter community and inspired others to discover the joy of analog writing.
Hanks’s love for typewriters has brought new attention to these classic machines. He wrote a book called "Uncommon Type", with each story featuring a typewriter.
He also appeared in the documentary *California Typewriter*, which explores the history and culture of typewriter collecting.
In 2025, Hanks loaned 35 of his typewriters for a special exhibit, allowing the public to see his collection up close.
Typewriters have seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among people looking to disconnect from screens and enjoy a more focused, hands-on way of writing.
Hanks’s enthusiasm has helped make typewriters relevant again, showing that even in a digital age, there is value in slowing down and appreciating the craftsmanship of the past.
Through his collection, generosity, and public love for typewriters, Tom Hanks has become a symbol of how old-fashioned hobbies can bring people together.
His story encourages others to find joy in collecting, writing, and connecting with history in their own unique ways.
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