Author: Morris Butler
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The Telephone Historical Centre Collections presents a history of communications technology from Alexander Graham Bell’s invention through to today’s mobile telephony systems, celebrating generations of workers who erect poles, install cables and design technological solutions.

From party line phones and Scobie store phones that graced suburban kitchen walls to novelty Princess phones, the museum houses an impressive assortment of telecom artifacts and exhibits including functioning switching equipment as well as an impressive library containing unique telephone publications.

Alexander Graham Bell Collection

This collection contains correspondence, diaries, notebooks and other writings by Alexander Graham Bell that cover his interest in various areas such as telephone technology, deaf education and experiments with aeronautics. Furthermore, family papers and material related to his life in Washington D.C. and Nova Scotia where he established a summer home and conducted many of his experiments can also be found here.

Bell was instrumental in helping the Smithsonian accept and showcase a collection donated by wealthy industrialist and collector Charles Lang Freer, creating the Freer Gallery of Asian Art as one of its premier exhibits devoted exclusively to Asian art.

Bell made another significant contribution with his invention of the telephone, which made long distance communications much simpler by transmitting sounds instead of written letters as was done through Morse code. This enabled families to remain in touch across long distances while opening the way for international business communications and personal connections.

Bell-Northern Research and Development Laboratories Collection

At the close of the nineteenth century, AT&T’s engineering department had grown so large that management decided a separate subsidiary should be created to handle research activities: Bell Telephone Laboratories. Both AT&T and Western Electric would jointly own this new company.

Bell Labs engineers contributed significant innovations, such as the panel switch, electronic amplifiers, synchronized sound motion pictures and transoceanic radio telephony to AT&T. One of their greatest accomplishments was solving AT&T’s greatest technical challenge – how to transmit telephone signals across continents.

After AT&T lost its monopoly status in 1984, its laboratories were distributed among Holmdel, Crawford Hill, Deal, Freehold, Neptune Township Murray Hill Piscataway Red Bank and Whippany. Subsequent to that federal court ruling, however, its laboratory divisions were disassembled; those continuing as AT&T Labs eventually split into seven regional “Baby Bells.” Gradually contracted out research was then transferred elsewhere with Murray Hill becoming Nokia Bell Labs while others such as Whippany Piscataway Red Bank being sold off to Lucent Technologies Alcatel-Lucent or Bayer Health Care among others.

Gridley Museum of Independent Telephony Collection

This museum honors generations of men and women who erected poles, buried cables, designed and managed an essential network of phone lines – whether through poles being raised to honoring them all the way down through poles being installed to candlestick wall phones to Kellogg universal switchboards! Through interactive exhibits such as candlestick wall phones or Kellogg universal switchboards this collection offers an educational journey into telecom history!

The Gridley Museum of Independent Telephony is one of 27 telecom museums nationwide, boasting an outstanding collection of vintage telephone memorabilia collected over time in Gridley – a small town situated in rural Illinois.

At first, a group of local residents examined the feasibility of creating a museum. When this investigation concluded, community donations helped fund this endeavor. Rogers Kaufman had all kinds of records, equipment and artifacts stored away in his company’s basement; realizing this as an ideal opportunity to open one himself.

Edmonton Telecommunications Museum Collection

The Edmonton Telecommunications Museum strives to educate the public on communications technology. Visitors can interact with old crank wall phones, decorator telephones and working switchboards at this museum. There are also working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switch equipment; antique phones; outside plant displays featuring poles, wire and splicing tools as well as an extensive cataloged reference library for researchers. Furthermore, this museum also provides educational programs for students, teachers and the general public.

The Museum of Telecommunications in Edmonton chronicles the development of telecommunications in Edmonton area and is a great way for families to explore how communication technology has progressed from wooden box phones lining walls to flip phones in our pockets. There’s even an impressive collection of antique line insulators and an archive library housing phone directories, scrapbooks, and technical manuals!

This museum, founded by retired employees from ED TEL and accredited with Museums Alberta in 1987, provides guided tours for school field trips as well as sightseeing excursions in Old Strathcona.

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The concertina is a captivating and versatile musical instrument, celebrated for its distinctive sound, portability, and expressive range. Known for its reedy tones and rhythmic charm, the concertina has been a staple in traditional folk music, especially in Ireland, England, and Scotland, while also appearing in classical, sea shanty, and contemporary music. Its compact size, combined with its musical versatility, makes it a popular choice for beginners, hobbyists, and professional musicians alike.

Types of Concertinas

Understanding the different types of concertinas is essential when selecting the right instrument:

  1. English Concertina – The English concertina features a chromatic button layout, producing the same note whether the bellows are pushed or pulled. This enables smooth, fast melodic playing, making it suitable for classical music and English folk tunes.
  2. Anglo Concertina – The Anglo concertina is diatonic, producing different notes on the push and pull of the bellows. This gives it a lively, rhythmic sound ideal for Irish and Scottish traditional music, including reels, jigs, and polkas.
  3. Duet Concertina – Designed for melody and accompaniment simultaneously, the duet concertina allows musicians to perform complex pieces solo. Each hand typically plays a different range of notes, making it ideal for harmonic and polyphonic music.
  4. Chemnitzer Concertina – Popular in Central and Eastern European folk music, the Chemnitzer has a square body and produces a robust, resonant tone. It is commonly used for polkas, waltzes, and ensemble performances.


Features to Consider

When choosing a concertina, several factors can affect playability and tone quality:

  • Number of Buttons – Concertinas can range from small 20-button instruments to larger 60-button models. More buttons allow a wider musical range but require increased finger dexterity.
  • Bellows Quality – High-quality, airtight bellows are crucial for maintaining consistent airflow, tone, and expression. Reinforced corners and folds improve durability.
  • Reeds and Tuning – Most concertinas use brass or steel reeds. Quality reeds provide a clear, responsive tone and ensure stable tuning.
  • Size and Comfort – Smaller instruments are easier for beginners or players with smaller hands, while larger models provide a fuller range and richer sound.

Musical Applications

The concertina’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Anglo concertinas are particularly popular in Irish and Scottish folk music, providing rhythmic drive and melodic embellishments. English concertinas excel in classical arrangements due to their chromatic layout. Duet concertinas allow soloists to play both melody and accompaniment simultaneously. Meanwhile, the Chemnitzer concertina is perfect for European folk and dance music, including polkas and waltzes.

Learning and Playing

Concertinas are accessible for beginners while offering depth for advanced musicians. Small, diatonic models allow new players to focus on mastering bellows control, basic melodies, and ornamentation. As players advance, they can explore more complex techniques such as rolls, tremolos, and chordal harmonies. Instructional resources—including books, online tutorials, and workshops—support players at all skill levels.

Buying a Concertina

Concertinas can be purchased from various sources:

  • Music Stores – Local shops provide hands-on testing, expert advice, and opportunities to compare multiple instruments.
  • Online Retailers – Online stores offer a wide selection, detailed descriptions, and convenient delivery options. Ensure sellers have good reputations and return policies.
  • Second-Hand Market – Pre-owned concertinas can be affordable, but inspect them carefully for reed quality, bellows integrity, and button responsiveness.

Conclusion

The concertina is a charming, expressive, and versatile instrument that can enrich any musical experience. Whether performing traditional folk tunes, classical pieces, or contemporary compositions, the right concertina inspires creativity and enjoyment for musicians of all levels. By understanding the different types, features, and purchasing options, players can confidently select an instrument that matches their style, skill level, and musical aspirations.

A well-chosen concertina opens the door to endless melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic possibilities, making it a cherished companion for musicians of every age and experience.

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The concertina is a unique and captivating musical instrument, cherished for its rich, reedy sound and portability. Often associated with folk and traditional music, particularly in Ireland, England, and Scotland, the concertina also appears in classical music, sea shanties, and contemporary compositions. Compact yet expressive, the instrument has captured the hearts of beginners, hobbyists, and professional musicians alike, offering a distinctive voice in ensembles or as a solo instrument.

Types of Concertinas

Concertinas come in several types, each with its own features and playing style:

Chemnitzer Concertina – Often used in Central and Eastern European folk music, the Chemnitzer has a square body and a deep, resonant tone, perfect for dance tunes and ensemble performances.

English Concertina – The English concertina features a chromatic button layout, producing the same note on both the push and pull of the bellows. This allows for fluid, fast melodic playing and makes it popular in classical music and traditional English folk tunes.

Anglo Concertina – Diatonic in design, the Anglo concertina produces different notes on the push and pull, creating a lively, rhythmic sound. It is ideal for Irish and Scottish traditional music, including jigs, reels, and polkas.

Duet Concertina – The duet concertina allows for both melody and accompaniment to be played simultaneously. Its separate note arrangements for each hand make it suitable for solo performers and complex musical arrangements.

Features to Consider

When selecting a concertina, several key features should guide your choice:

  • Number of Buttons – Concertinas range from small 20-button instruments to larger 60-button models. More buttons provide a wider musical range but require greater dexterity.
  • Bellows Quality – Strong, airtight bellows are essential for maintaining tone, volume, and expressive control. Reinforced corners and quality folds improve longevity.
  • Reed Materials and Tuning – Brass and steel reeds are commonly used. High-quality reeds provide clear, responsive sound and consistent tuning.
  • Size and Comfort – Smaller concertinas are easier for beginners or players with small hands, while larger instruments offer a richer tone and wider range.

Musical Applications

The concertina’s versatility makes it suitable for various musical styles. In traditional Irish and Scottish music, the Anglo concertina provides rhythmic drive and melodic embellishments. English concertinas excel in classical and folk melodies due to their chromatic layout. Duet concertinas allow musicians to combine melody and harmony, while the Chemnitzer is perfect for polkas, waltzes, and Central European folk music.

Learning to Play

Concertinas are approachable for beginners while still offering depth for advanced musicians. Beginners benefit from smaller instruments with simpler layouts, allowing them to focus on bellows control, note accuracy, and basic ornamentation. As skills develop, players can explore more advanced techniques, such as rolls, tremolos, and complex chords. Instructional resources—including books, online tutorials, and workshops—support learning at every level.

Buying a Concertina

Concertinas can be purchased through multiple sources:

  • Music Stores – Local stores allow you to try instruments in person, compare sounds, and get guidance from experienced staff.
  • Online Retailers – Online stores provide convenience, a wide selection, detailed descriptions, and reviews. Ensure the seller has a reputable return policy.

Second-Hand Market – Pre-owned concertinas offer affordability but require careful inspection of bellows, reeds, buttons, and overall condition.

Conclusion

The concertina is a charming, expressive, and versatile instrument that can enhance any musical experience. From traditional folk tunes to classical arrangements and contemporary compositions, the right concertina inspires creativity and enjoyment for players of all skill levels. By understanding the different types, key features, and purchasing options, musicians can confidently choose an instrument that suits their style, experience, and aspirations.

A well-selected concertina opens the door to a world of melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic possibilities, making it a cherished companion for anyone passionate about music.

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The Telephone Historical Centre preserves Edmonton’s telecom history and heritage through museums, archives, and educational programs. The museum features historic images from early phone technology in Edmonton. Furthermore, an unparalleled collection of telephone directories and technical manuals complete the picture.

It also boasts working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switch equipment; operator switchboards; antique phones; outside plant displays that feature poles, cables and splicing tools; cataloged reference materials as well as educational programs designed for students and teachers.

Museum

Telephones have become such a part of life that it can be easy to forget how revolutionary Alexander Graham Bell’s invention was. But its implementation wasn’t a seamless journey – it took many trials and courage for it to go public.

This museum, established by former ED TEL employees, presents the history of telecom through an impressive collection of antique telephone equipment and archives. Offering ADA compliant facilities, this museum makes for ideal school field trips or sightseeing tours; featuring working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switches; operator switchboards; antique wooden crank wall phones and classic rotary dial telephones as well as outside plant displays including poles cables splicing tools and equipment as well as one of North America’s largest cataloged telecom reference libraries.

This Museum boasts many rare original books from 1877 such as “The Speaking Telephone: Its Mechanism and Theory”, making this visit essential for anyone interested in telecommunications history.

Archives

The Edmonton Archives offer an extraordinary resource of historical material relating to the development and evolution of telephone technology, as well as one of the largest telephone reference libraries in North America. They serve as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and anyone wanting to delve deeper into Edmonton’s telephone history.

This collection features early telephone directories with information such as profession and homeowner status of its citizens. Also included is an extensive archive of photographs from early telephone pioneers in Chicago as well as antique phones ranging from wooden box phones to candlestick wall phones.

Sheldon Hochheiser, the center’s corporate historian, highlights some of the more interesting items in their archives. These include an 1877 book entitled The Telephone: An Account of Electricity, Magnetism and Sound that contains detailed diagrams and instructions on how to construct a speaking telephone; also included is Thomas Watson’s notebook from 1870s and early ’80s documenting his efforts at transmitting intelligible speech transmission.

Education Programs

The Edmonton Telephone Historical Centre was one of North America’s most comprehensive telecommunications history museums and archives, housing an extensive working collection of Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switch equipment; candlestick wall phones; antique phones; outside plant displays (such as poles, cables, splicing tools and antique line insulators); two position Kellogg universal switchboards and an extensive cataloged research library.

Its extensive collection of telephones dating back to 1878 allows students, researchers, and the curious to trace how technology evolved – from Alexander Graham Bell’s Gallows Frame to touch-tone dialing on your modern cell phone – making the Museum and Archives an invaluable resource to bridge past and evolving technologies and cultures.

This museum opened for business on Dec 3, 1987 in Old Strathcona neighbourhood and relocated to Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre in central Edmonton four years later in 2004. Unfortunately, due to relevancy and financial concerns related to running such an institution, its foundation decided in April to close it down for good.

Events

THG boasts one of the largest collections of telephone history in North America and offers events and programs to connect its past to evolving technologies and cultures. From Alexander Graham Bell’s solid wood wall-mounted phones to multifunctional mobile devices today, this museum sheds light on how telecom has developed over time as generations built the system, buried cables underground, installed poles overhead, managed this vital technology – showcasing it all along the way!

Museum visitors can experience first-hand how iterative design processes led to today’s communications equipment by engaging with hands-on displays at the museum. Visitors can operate manual switchboards or manually dial their phones – both are manual systems – while there’s also an extensive reference library of telecom books and catalogs as well as an impressive collection of line insulators on display.

Roseville Museum was created by retired EDTEL employees as Canada’s only facility dedicated to this field. Roseville features two Kellogg universal switchboards; an automated branch exchange with step-by-step stepping change principles; antique wooden box phones and candlestick wall phones from various eras as well as rotary dial telephones in its collection.

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Established by retired employees of ED TEL, this specialty museum showcases the development of phone technology over time and boasts one of the world’s premier collections of antique phones and equipment.

From wall-mounted operator switches made of solid wood to modern cell phones, visitors can explore the history of telecom at this interactive museum. Booked tours are also available.

Opening Hours

Established by retired employees of ED TEL in 1987, this unique museum boasts one of the largest collections of phone equipment and artifacts ever assembled in Canada – and one that can only be found here! Group and individual sightseeing tours allow you to experience hands-on the history of communications technology! Exhibits include electric working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office step switches; antique telephones; operator switchboards; outside plant displays featuring poles cables splicing equipment tools; large cataloged reference library for telecom literature as well as knowledgeable docents (current or retired phone company employees who lead guided tours).

The Telephone Historical Centre provides an ideal place for people of all ages to learn about the development of telecommunications technology. Through interactive exhibits and multi-media presentations featuring Xeldon, Edmonton’s famous talking robot, as well as historical footage, this museum also boasts one of North America’s largest collections of antique telephones – having originated its location in Old Strathcona but later moving closer to central Edmonton via Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre for greater accessibility.

Admission

Established by retired ED TEL employees in 1987, this museum is one of a kind in Canada. With operating operator switchboards, outdoor plant displays that contain poles and cables as well as splicing equipment as well as an extensive catalogued reference library dedicated to telecom literature – groups or individual sightseeing tours are offered making this facility perfect for family outings or school field trips! Group or individual sightseeing tours are available making this facility perfect for family adventures or school field trips!

Visitors will see hundreds of artifacts that trace the development of telephone technology from Alexander Graham Bell’s attic workshop to today’s sleek mobile phones. Touching wooden box phones, candlestick wall phones or classic rotary dialers gives visitors an opportunity to learn more. Visitors may even explore a replica of a small town American independent telephone exchange which features stepping switch principles or operate a manual cord board!

Established in Old Strathcona neighbourhood of Edmonton and relocated to Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre for increased accessibility in 2004, this museum is run entirely by volunteers. Offering group and individual sightseeing tours alike, its collection features working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switches; antique telephones and switchboards; outside plant displays featuring poles cables and splicing equipment tools, catalogued telecommunications reference library plus knowledgeable docents (current or retired telco workers who volunteer their time) who guide tours throughout the museum.

Exhibits

The museum features one of North America’s largest collections of antique telecommunications equipment and items. It provides visitors with hands-on experiences related to communication technology including working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switches; operator switches; antique wooden box phones; candlestick wall phones; manual cord boards and step-by-step private automatic branch exchange displays demonstrating step switching principles; outdoor plant displays featuring poles cables splicing equipment tools as well as an impressive library with telecom books and catalogs.

Create an interactive telephone experience requires careful planning and execution in order to achieve an impactful visitor impact. This requires creating an informative narrative with relevant information, interviews with subject experts, engaging voice acting performances and quality audio productions, as well as staff familiar with the content guiding visitors through their interaction and troubleshooting when necessary.

One of the primary challenges involved with interactive telephone hardware installation and management is physical installation and ongoing management. Commercial-grade telephones and components must withstand constant public use; cleaning protocols should also be established to regularly sanitize handsets and buttons.

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The Telephone Historical Centre is one of North America’s premier hands-on museums showcasing how communications technology has developed since Alexander Graham Bell revolutionized communication back in 1876. At this museum you’ll find an eclectic array of telephone related artifacts, such as wooden wall phones and rotary dialers; replicas of small town America independent phone exchanges complete with glass insulators; working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central office switchboards, antique telephones, operator switches; outdoor plant displays featuring poles cables tools used for splicing equipment; an extensive telecom reference library as well as knowledgeable docents (current or former telecom employees donating their time) who offer guided tours throughout the museum.

The Museum was founded by retired employees of ED TEL and first opened for business in 1987 in Edmonton’s Old Strathcona neighbourhood, before later moving to Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre for greater accessibility. Now located at 108 Avenue E in Edmonton’s centre, this unique museum provides group and individual sightseeing tours for visitors alike.

All rights are reserved by Telephone Historic Center

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