Through the late 19th century, there was an ongoing debate about women joining the workforce. One commentator in 1892 asked, “Is there not great danger to domestic peace involved in such intimacy as comes from a married employer having confidential relations, no matter how proper, with another woman than his wife?”
The author, M. B. Sanford (male? female?), rather backhandedly offered an endorsement of women in professional spaces, offering observations that were sure to offend professional women. Commenting on the “pretty typewriter” meme, Sanford wrote, “As a matter of fact typewriters [typists] like other self supporting women are not remarkable for good looks and among them are sedate matrons and single women who are no longer young.” Possibly, Sanford imagined this statement supported women’s efforts to seek professional employment.
The Shorthand Review published many articles from a variety of authors and perspectives, and it is not certain what agenda (if any) the publication intended to advance. For example, there is this article from a female typist who bristled at some of the previous commentary published in the Shorthand Review.
The Shorthand Review (New York), September 1892 –
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