Transoceanic Voice Cables, circa 1956

01

Artifact Overview

The opening of the TAT-1 (Transatlantic No. 1) cable in 1956 made it possible to place long-distance telephone calls across the Atlantic Ocean. Until this cable was installed, voice transmission over long distances occurred through an unreliable and expensive radio relay system. The TAT-1 responded to an increased demand for instant communication, establishing the first accessible international telephone service.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Cable (Object genre)

Date Made

circa 1956

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.0.17.128

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Copper alloy
Gutta-percha
Rubber (Material)
Wax
Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 7.5 in
Width: 8 in
Length: 20.25 in

Inscriptions

plaque: Transoceanic Voice Cable plaque: Used in Deep Water Below 400 Fathoms plaque: Used in Intermediate Depths Between 300 and 400 Fathoms plaque: Used in Shallow Water of 100 to 300 Fathoms
Transoceanic Voice Cables, circa 1956