Did you know that Underwood Typewriter Canada began its journey in 1895? Under the name Wagner Typewriters this company started its incredible run. John Joseph Seitz a man of vision founded what would become Underwood Enterprises in Canada. He spearheaded the Underwood Typewriter Company of Canada in Toronto. By 1898 he introduced groundbreaking typewriter technology to the Canadian market. Underwood’s impact was immense. The company flourished under Seitz’s leadership for four decades. His son J L Seitz a University of Toronto graduate followed in his footsteps. He joined the company in 1898 rising through the ranks to become President in 1940. This was after his father’s passing.
Underwood’s success wasn’t just about innovative technology. It was also about people. The company grew rapidly. By the late 1950s Underwood had branch offices across Canada in 41 major cities and numerous smaller ones. Many talented individuals like my father Kelvin Rankin Bell found their career path within this remarkable organization. He started in the mailroom at the age of seventeen. He built his career within the organization eventually assuming high-level positions.
Underwood’s story is one of innovation and growth. Its Toronto headquarters were once located at 45 Adelaide Street East. In the 1920s a significant expansion took place. The company built a five-story factory on Madison Avenue. Later the office moved to Victoria Street and finally to 100 Adelaide Street East. Underwood’s Toronto presence expanded significantly. Its impact resonated far beyond typewriters. The company played a pivotal role in modernizing Canadian businesses and empowering a new generation of office workers. Underwood’s legacy continues to be felt. It’s a testament to the vision of its founders and the dedication of its employees including my father who climbed the corporate ladder alongside J L Seitz. The bond between these two men built on mutual respect and strong work ethics is quite remarkable. Underwood’s tale is a compelling chapter in Toronto’s business history. It showcases a remarkable story of a company that grew from a small office to a national powerhouse. The Underwood story is one of hard work innovation and lasting impact. The Underwood legacy in Toronto is a testament to this vision.