NYC | Printing Presses at Bowne
2025-05-31 16:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Bowne & Co. Stationers, 211 Water St, New York, NY, 10038, United States
Step back in time as we visit Bowne & Co., a unique New York gem that brings the art of letterpress printing to life. Located at the South Street Seaport Museum, this historic print shop continues the centuries-old tradition of small-batch printing, using original equipment from the museum’s collection. Printing was central to the economy as every business and transaction required receipts, bills, advertisements, and certificates, and printers like Bowne & Co. filled those needs. Established in 1775, the original Bowne & Co., Inc. was one of the city’s oldest printing firms. Today, its namesake carries on this legacy, producing beautifully crafted letterpress prints visiting authentic 19th-century techniques. During our visit, a Bowne & Co. designer will demonstrate the process of setting and locking up limited-edition designs, highlighting some of the more eccentric pieces from the museum’s printing and graphic arts collection. The experience includes a look at the museum’s collection of historic printing equipment in action, culminating in the chance to print your own creation to take home.
Location: Bowne & Co. Stationers, 211 Water St, New York, NY 10038
Tickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
