Here are some key characteristics of Spencerian script:
1. Oval Letters: Lowercase letters were generally round or oval in shape, with a consistent slant. Letters such as "a," "o," and "e" had a circular form.
2. Upstrokes and Downstrokes: Strokes that went down (downstrokes) were thick, while strokes that went up (upstrokes) were thin. This contrast created a rhythmic and visually appealing texture in the writing.
3. Serifs: Letters often had small triangular serifs at the beginning and ends of strokes, adding a decorative element to the script.
4. Loops: The letters "g," "j," "y," and "z" had elaborate loops that extended below the baseline, creating a distinctive visual feature.
5. Shading: Spencerian script emphasized the use of shading to enhance the contrast between thick and thin strokes. This shading technique gave the writing a three-dimensional appearance and added depth to the characters.
6. Consistency and Legibility: Spencerian script was designed for clarity and legibility, making it easy to read and understand. Teachers stressed the importance of maintaining a uniform size, spacing, and slant in the writing, which contributed to its overall neatness.
7. Flourishes and Embellishments: Ornamental flourishes and decorations were often added at the beginning or the end of words or sentences, reflecting the artistic influence on handwriting during this period.
While Spencerian script was the predominant style of handwriting in America during the 1860s, other styles, such as Copperplate script, were also in use. Copperplate script shared some similarities with Spencerian script but was known for its more elaborate flourishes and artistic flair.
Over time, the popularity of Spencerian script gradually declined as more practical and efficient styles of writing emerged. However, it remains an iconic representation of 19th-century American handwriting and continues to be admired for its elegance, artistry, and historical significance.