This one-fourth scale model of the 'Franklin' common press, described separately, was made by Richard P. Heitzenrater of Dallas, Texas in about 1985.
The replica model recreated the plans for the 'Franklin' press described in volume two of Elizabeth Harris's "The Common Press" (London: Merrion Press, 1978). The wood was originally used in pews from the Church of St. Margaret in London's Westminster Abbey and were removed as part of a remodeling project in the nineteenth century. They were then sold to an individual in Dallas, Texas.
The press is a working model constructed by Mr. Heitzenrater when he served as curator of Early English Printing in the Methodist Collections at Bridwell Library at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
Donated by Richard P. Heitzenrater, 2013.
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