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James Ramsey Cuthbert Appleby was born on 2 January 1807 in Shaftesbury, Dorset. He was a child of George (1767-1841) and Elizabeth Appleby.
James worked as a linsey maker and later followed his father’s steps to becoming a Hosier. No record shows whether Appleby started as a Linsey maker or developed his invention first.
James Appleby later became a clerk at St. James’ Church. He was responsible for all the parish records and accounts. His early experience as a Hosier had a significant impact on his new career as a clerk.
James Appleby invented the money-calculating machine. The device is labeled: “Accountant Machine by RC Appleby, Saint James, Shaftesbury, Dorset, 1856”. A stylus is present in a fitted compartment.