Old-time Presses In A Modern World

How Times Change

Working conditions were far different in olden times. Eckert, of Sturbridge, says printers could work as much as 70 hours a week—with a pot of rum sitting on the bench to keep them going. "Liquor was a part of life then," he says.

By contrast, the recreated shops generally operate from 10 to 5, with seasonal adjustments—and no grog.