Section of the First Transatlantic Cable, 1858
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Artifact Overview
Telegraphs could be sent wherever wires could be hung in the 1850s, but hardwiring signals between transoceanic continents required a feat of engineering. In 1858, a team laid underwater cable across the Atlantic and sent a successful telegram. Though the cable soon failed, pieces were sold as souvenirs in Charles Tiffany's renowned jewelry store as symbols of speed and progress.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Transatlantic cable
Date Made
1858
Creators
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Possibly made by Sheffield Works of Sheffield, England.
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
41.74.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of All American Cables and Radio, Inc.
Material
Brass (Alloy)
Copper (Metal)
Inscriptions
Brass ferrule:
ATLANTIC TELEGRAPH CABLE / GUARANTEED BY / TIFFANY & CO. / BROADWAY - NEW YORK - 1858
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