The Maha Rajah commissioned
His Highness’ Astronomer, Mr. Caldecott to procure a small printing
press, and employ the same in connection with the Observatory; but this gentleman
at first introduced lithography, and subsequently, in consultation with the
Resident, printing presses were ordered from England and a printing department
established in 1838 under Samathanam Maistry who was one of the first batch
of workmen trained in the Nagercoil Press. Rev. Mr. Sperschneider (the father
of the present Dr. Sperschneider of the Nair brigade), was appointed superintendent
of the printing department. In February 1838, communication from Col Fraser,
Resident, is available, agreeing with "the temporary transfer of the
Printing establishment and apparatus to Mr. Caldecott". It seems, caldecott
was in charge of the press, to begin with. In the year 1839 the first Anglo-Vernacular
Calendar of Travancore (for the Malabar year 1015) was issued from this press.
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