The Linotype (line of type) machine was invented in 1886 by Ottmar Mergenthaler and automated typesetting. The machine held a case of type matrices which would fall into place when typed by the operator, once the line was finished hot lead would be shot into the line of matrices and out would fall a line of type which could be used to print. The matrices were automatically sorted using a clever key-notch system. mistakes would be melted and reset line by line. The invention of this machine greatly increased the speed of typesetting.

One image of a dusty Linotype machine was taken in the newspaper office of my cousin in Iowa, where the machines were used up until the 1960s and 70s.