Jun
12

Today in Smithsonian History: June 12, 1878

June 12, 1878 A system of electric bells and telephones is established throughout the Smithsonian Institution Building—the Castle—connecting several offices and workrooms. This is considered an improvement.

Alexander graham Bell makes call to Chicago

Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, places a call to Chicago to ceremoniously launch the New York to Chicago telephone line in 1892. Gilbert H. Grosvenor Collection, Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress.

The East Range Office of Secretary Spencer Baird (1878-1887), in the Smithsonian Institution Building around 1878. Baird's state-of-the-art Wooten desk, providing a filing system with pigeon holes and writing surfaces, is visible on the far left. (Photo By Thomas W. Smillie (1843-1917))

The East Range Office of Secretary Spencer Baird (1878-1887), in the Smithsonian Institution Building around 1878. Baird’s state-of-the-art Wooten desk, providing a filing system with pigeon holes and writing surfaces, is visible on the far left. (Photo By Thomas W. Smillie (1843-1917))

Listen to Alexander Graham’s voice on the earliest known recording, ca. 1885:

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Posted: 12 June 2019
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