Nobody proofed back then, there was the person who wrote things in the book and that was it. If that person was stupid, or had bad handwriting, or just didn’t like your family too bad. That’s one of the reasons the family Bible became a place to record the family tree, it was a second source and more trustworthy. These days there’s probably a lot more proofing since you fill out the name for the kid and actually get copies of the ensuing paperwork. There’s a lot more opportunities to correct the record now.
Digital composition makes it better. I found out yesterday I didn’t have the right vehicle registration in my car, didn’t have the current address, $4 and 5 minutes later print at home and I’m up to date.
We were thinking of a different point in the past and the technology.
You were thinking about 1850’s. (When the article was about) I was thinking 1950’s which I can relate to. smile.
Sorry.
I carried a very large print catalog (25#) from 1972 to 1986. (reference to $50 plate charge was then)
I ran a catalog and advertising department for 5-1/2 years many years later. Also created and maintained a website then.