Earl Lupfer’s Rapid Old English, developed in the early 1900s, has become the standard alphabet for the IAMPETH Master Penman Program. This elegant hand combines the beauty of the formal Retouched Old English with the speed and legibility needed for practical use.

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Master Penman Vivian Mungall, who learned this distinctive style from Stephen Ziller, a direct student of Lupfer, will guide students through the structure, rhythm, and refinement of this timeless lettering form.

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Rapid Old English is ideal for personalizing certificates, highlighting important lines on resolutions and awards, or enhancing poems and sayings. Written with a broad pen and minimal retouching, this hand emphasizes clean, confident strokes. Popular throughout the United States from the late 1800’s through the 1900’s, it remains a classic style that bridges tradition with efficiency.