Ames, Daniel Titus (sold)

Daniel Titus Ames (December 19, 1835 - August 26, 1909) was an American lawyer, publisher, artist, calligrapher, and 'penman' active in Vermont, New York, and California in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ames was born in Vershire, Vermont. He attended the Chelsea Academy and later the Topsfield Academy before enrolling in Dartmouth College. From at least 15 he developed a love of calligraphy and penmanship, paying his tuition at Dartmouth by giving lessons. After graduating in 1857, he returned to Vermont, where he studied law under Stratford Judge 'Cobb'. He later taught writing and penmanship at Eastman's Business College, Oswego. There he also took a degree in bookkeeping. In 1862, he opened his own business school in Syracuse, New York, which he ran until 1868 when it was sold to the B. and S. School. He was admitted to the New York Bar, moving to New York City in 1869. There he briefly practiced law before, in 1873, establishing a penmanship and design business focused on 'engrossing'. Engrossing was a kind of calligraphic script distinguished by clean readable cursive letters that could be writing quickly and easily. Largely due to Ames' efforts, the art of engrossing became prominent in United States business circles from about 1870 to 1910. In 1876, he began publishing the Penman's Art Journal, the leading publication on penmanship for more than 20 years. In addition to publishing Penman, he taught penmanship, testified in court as a handwriting expert, and authored several books on the topic. In addition, and significant to our interests, he issued a number of broadsides distinguished by elaborate typography, calligraphy, and decorative content. In the late 19th century, Ames took Charles Rollinson as an apprentice. When he retired in 1899, Rollinson took over his business. Ames relocated to Mountain View, Santa Clara, California to enjoy his retirement. He died ten years later, in 1909, in San Jose.