Radio Headphones Used by Theodore Haubner While Transmitting the First "SOS" Distress Signal, August 11, 1909
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Artifact Overview
In 1909, telegraph operator Theodore Haubner sent the first American ship-to-shore wireless distress signal -- SOS. These headphones were part of his wireless equipment. Haubner was aboard the SS Arapahoe off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, when it became disabled.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Headphones
Date Made
1908-1909
Subject Date
11 August 1909
Creators
Place of Creation
Location
at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America
Object ID
39.559.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Theodore D. Haubner.
Material
Nickel (Metal)
Aluminum
Plate (Material)
Dimensions
Height: 6.25 in
Width: 7.25 in
Inscriptions
Stamped on exterior of each headphone: THE SCHMIDT-WILCKES ELECTRIC CO. / NEW YORK, U.S.A.
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Related Artifacts
ArtifactCommemorative Medal Issued to Theodore D. Haubner, 1939
In 1909, telegraph operator Theodore Haubner sent the first American ship-to-shore wireless distress signal--SOS. Haubner was aboard the SS Arapahoe off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, when it became disabled. The Veteran Wireless Operators Association honored Haubner by awarding him this commemorative medal on the 30th anniversary of his achievement.
ArtifactTelegraph Key Used by Theodore Haubner to Send One of the First "SOS" Distress Signal on August 11, 1909
In 1909, telegraph operator Theodore Haubner sent the first American ship-to-shore wireless distress signal -- SOS -- using this telegraph key. Haubner was aboard the SS Arapahoe off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, when it became disabled.
ArtifactRadio Operator Theodore D. Haubner on the Deck of the SS Arapahoe, After Sending One of the First S.O.S. Distress Signals, 1909
In 1909, telegraph operator Theodore Haubner sent the first American ship-to-shore wireless distress signal -- SOS. Haubner was aboard the SS Arapahoe off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, when it became disabled. This photograph, taken some time after the event, shows Haubner on the deck of the Arapahoe.
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articleSending out an SOS
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