Nensco Pica Pole

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by New England Newspaper Supply Co (Millbury, Massachusetts, 1906 - 2009)

Dateca. 1979

Mediummetal

Dimensions13 3/4 × 7/8 in. (34.9 × 2.2 cm)

ClassificationsTools, Implements & Weights

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Denise Tessier

Object numberPC2023.34.8

DescriptionThis grey, flat, metal pole is known as a Pica Pole and has a series of numbers ranging from 1 to 72 on one side and 1 to 12 on the other. Each side represents points and inches respectively. These markers are for newspaper measurements 6 and 12PT, and were used by typographers to map out text that would be printed in newspapers. The top is shaped like a semi-circle and cuts back into the rest of the extended rectangle shape, meaning the pole can be hung verticly if required. The lowest part is a smaller semi-circle without a cut inside. There is a hole in the top of the pole and manufacturer information on the lowest part.

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