Give Someone a Bell: Telephones

Abstract

In 1876, the United States celebrated the centenary of its foundation by hosting the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures and Products of the Soil and Mine, known as the Centennial Exposition. It was held in Philadelphia and was one of a series of World Fairs where countries showed off to their competitors. It was opened by President Grant, accompanied by Emperor Dom Pedro II of Brazil. After the speeches, raising of the flag, the anthem and the 100-gun salute, the party went through the Main Hall along a passage lined with soldiers, outside and then into the Machinery Hall. Here they ascended the platform in the center and President Grant and Emperor Dom Pedro simultaneously turned the wheels to set the 1400 horsepower Corliss steam engine into motion.¹ The shafting along the sides of the Hall, and all the belts powering the rows of machines, sprang into life.

The day is coming when telegraph wires will be laid on to houses just like water or gas—and friends will converse with each other without leaving home.

Alexander Graham Bell

(1876, shortly after the invention of the telephone)