Cursive Handwriting: History & Workshop
When: Saturday mornings
Dates: June 6 - June 20, 2026
Time: 11:00am -12:30pm
Location: Camp Paradise 44 Cole St., Beverly
Cost: $60pp (all materials included)
Ages: High School Students and Adults
Develop the foundation for practical, everyday cursive handwriting skills in this three-session workshop. The time-tested Palmer method is taught using a facsimile of A.N. Palmer’s original 1894 book. Developed to maximize efficiency of movement and to reduce fatigue, the Palmer handwriting method was the predominant technique used in classrooms for most of the twentieth century; generations of students learned handwriting in this way. Participants will learn the components of smooth, efficient handwriting: posture, pen position, movement, and letterforms. In addition to instruction, the first session will include a discussion of the history of handwriting in America, its decline, resurgence, and relevance in a digital age. The second and third sessions will focus on the practice of handwriting exercises. This workshop is intended for adults and high school students who wish to develop or improve their practical cursive writing skills. Please note that this is not a calligraphy class. Pens, paper, and instruction book will be provided to eachparticipant.
Instructor Bio: Robin Umbley is a handwriting enthusiast who is the third generation in her family to have learned the Palmer method in school. She writes in flowing, legible cursive to this day. Robin is a Beverly resident with a master’s degree in English and a collection of fountain pens. She lives with her husband and cats and also has taught figure skating classes.