Congratulations to MTE Office Center, which officially celebrated its 90th business anniversary on July 24, 2025. Now on its fourth generation of family management, the dealership is situated in Maryville, Missoiri, 95 miles north of Kansas City.
MTE Timeline
Founded in 1935 by Jack Tarpley, Maryville Typewriter Exchange (MTE) began as a small, service-oriented business in Maryville, rooted in Jack’s expertise with typewriters, a skill he honed during his military service.
In 1946, the business expanded when his daughter, Betty, and her husband Jay Baker joined, bringing new energy and growth. Jay helped MTE grow by traveling to neighboring communities and contacting schools, government offices and other businesses. Betty stayed in the store, keeping the books and waiting on walk-in customers. She was instrumental in the start of selling office supplies. The company prided itself on providing “Everything for the office, since 1935” and became an established trusted partner in the local community.
In 1980, Betty and Jay’s son, Roger Baker, came back to Maryville and became a part of the team. MTE added computers to the lineup and IT repair services started taking a dominant role in our business model. With the new emphasis on computer, printers, IT support, and office furniture, Maryville Typewriter Exchange became MTE Office Center.
In 2021, Elizabeth Christiansen, the fourth generation, joined the family business, ensuring that MTE’s legacy of service and community involvement continues. The dealership is proud to have long-serving employees with over 35 years of dedication and experience, like Andy Abbott and Pam Dougan, that highlight the loyalty and care that define its team.
Today, MTE Office Center differentiates itself from large corporations by prioritizing personal service and community support. The firm makes it a priority to donate supplies to local schools and churches, sponsor area sports teams and clubs, and champion other local businesses.
Surrounded by community members and alongside his sister, Vicki Baker, daughter Elizabeth Christiansen and employees, MTE owner Roger Baker, center, cuts a Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce ribbon celebrating the business’s 90th year serving the needs of offices throughout Maryville and beyond. (Photo courtesy of Skye Pournazari/The Forum.)
