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Local pastor Rick Willis has connected with other typewriter enthusiasts through social media. He is part of a diverse Facebook group called Austin Typewriter Ink and has participated in “type-in” events as pictured here. COURTESY PHOTO -
Rick Willis now has a collection of 35 typewriters, the oldest of which was made in 1919. He is pictured here with some of his favorite models. COURTESY PHOTO -
Willis enjoys restoring typewriters and returning them to working condition. This Royal “Quiet De Luxe” model is shown before he refurbished it. COURTESY PHOTO -
“If it’s a good typewriter, all it takes is a little tender-loving care” to repair and return its former glory, Willis said. Here is the “after” photo of the same model. COURTESY PHOTO
In seeking efficiency, Rick Willis discovered a hobby that brings him closer to peace and spirituality. For Willis, pastor of First Baptist Church in Lampasas, writing is a crucial part of his job. But a few years ago, he wanted to write for fun more often, such as writing memories, reflections, poetry or short stories.
He found that the computer bogged him down and took away his focus. In…