The Story of Figures, Burroughs Adding Machine Co.

Detroit, MI.: The Burroughs Adding Machine Co. (book, promotional), 1952

Burroughs related: an interesting book on the history of mark-making, language, counting, from the Burroughs Adding Machine Co., started by William Seward Burroughs I, grandfather of William S. Burroughs the author. Particularly interesting in light on Burroughs' interests (Hieroglyphics, Mayan codices, etc) and theories of word. 

As is well-recorded, Burroughs did not benefit greatly from his relationship with the company and his namesake; his parents sold off what stock they had before Burroughs' childhood, and despite the stories suggested (by Kerouac, for example), there was no family fortune. Nevertheless, one can not help but draw some line between the activities of the company (recording, control, etc.) and the latter interests of the author.

Acquired from Philip Smith, Bookseller (Berkeley, CA.)