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Early Years: The Art of Writing

Just as each person’s handwriting offers clues to individual identity, the United States began to break away from traditional English roundhand to Spencerian script. While still elegant with its slants and curves, Platt Spencer developed a system that disposed of extraneous curves in favor of the practical needs for both business and personal letters. Instruction in this penmanship style became paramount as it fulfilled the commercial needs of an emerging nation and reflected the penmanship styles associated with privileged professions such as business and law. As such, Spencerian writing accounted for a need to quickly pen out ledgers, receipts, memos, and legal documents and communications. Nonetheless, stroke patterns were often taught in a way that allowed them to work for decorative borders, seals, and icons. It is important to note that scriveners during the 19th century were almost exclusively males who needed to know the styles of their employers, replete with the ornate customs and personalization. Students would often use penmanship practice books to refine and demonstrate their ability as a writer, artist, and informed member of business trades.   

 English Roundhand

Asmara (English roundhand) from Michael Kossin on Vimeo.

 

America's first national form of penmanship, Spencerian