Celebrate 90 Years of Linotype
July 11 @ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Happy 90th Birthday, BMI Linotype!
Join the Baltimore Museum of Industry on July 11, 2026, as we celebrate a true “mechanical marvel”—our working Linotype is turning 90! Invented right here in Baltimore, the Linotype revolutionized global publishing, and we are honoring its legacy with a day dedicated to history, hands-on learning, and celebration.
The festivities will take place during regular museum hours, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and general admission is free for the day.
- Linotype Demos: See our famous Linotype in action with demonstrations led by volunteer Steve Cole in the Print Shop at 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM.
- Theater Screenings: Enjoy special screenings in the Meyerhoff Theater throughout the day, including Linotype, the movie, a showing of The Twilight Zone episode “The Printer’s Devil,” and the Baltimore Heritage 5-minute Histories Linotype episode.
- Birthday Cake: Join us at 2:30 PM for a Birthday Cake Celebration (first-come, first-served) to honor our machine.
- Limited Edition Collectibles: Purchase exclusive items to commemorate this monumental birthday
Intimate Workshop: Be a Linotype Operator
Experience a rare, behind-the-scenes opportunity to work one-on-one with Linotype volunteer Steve Cole. Limited to just five registrants, this hour-long workshop begins at 9:00 AM. Participants will operate the machine, type their name, print a pre-set certificate, and get to keep their custom line of type and printed items.
- Capacity: Limited to 5 participants.
- Price: $250 per person.
Limited Edition Line of Type Fundraiser
Support the Linotype repair fund by purchasing a limited-run line of type cast directly from the machine. This collectible features the inscription: “Linotype : Born in Baltimore : BMI 2026.”
- Price: $90 each, includes a clear top watch case.
- Fulfillment: Lines can be picked up at the museum or mailed for an additional $10.00.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
9:00 AM: Exclusive Linotype Workshop ($250)
10:30 AM: Linotype, The Movie – Meyerhoff theater
11:00 AM: Linotype demo with Steve in Print Shop
12:15 PM: Twilight Zone episode, “The Printer’s Devil” – Meyerhoff Theater
1:30 PM: Linotype Demo – Print Shop
2:00 PM: Baltimore Heritage 5-minute Histories Linotype – Meyerhoff Theater
2:30 PM: Birthday Cake Celebration & Name Reveal