Talk of the Town: The Evolution of Erie’s Telephone Service
Originally installed as a three-month exhibit, “Talk of the Town” has entertained and educated History Center visitors for more than a year. The exhibit is a selection of artifacts and photographs that were transferred to the Society by the GTE Museum, which closed their doors in 2005.
Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876. In 1877 the Bell Company installed the first four telephones in Erie. In 1897 Mutual Telephone Company was formed to compete with Bell. Competition between the two companies ended in 1926 when Mutual purchased Bell. Mutual’s first office was on the fourth floor of the Downing Building at East 10th and French Streets.
As you move through the exhibit you will learn about the changes in technology, the types of companies involved in the telephone industry, when the telephone service was first established in Erie, by who and how the Mutual Telephone Company started and evolved over time. You will also learn how the “telephone industry” is addressing current issues of competition for customers.
“Talk of the Town” is located at the Erie County History Center, 419 State Street, Erie and is open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
