Site of the First Transcontinental Call – Cambridge, Massachusetts - Atlas Obscura

AO Edited

Site of the First Transcontinental Call

This plaque commemorates the call between Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas A. Watson.  

82
193

This unassuming, but attractive brick building happens to be the birthplace of several devices and technologies that changed the world. In 1869, the first monkey wrench was crafted inside this building.

This was also the same location that Thomas A. Watson answered the first phone call made over a line. Edwin Land and Polaroid laboratories also called the building home. Two plaques located on the side of the building commemorate its history. 

It’s appropriate that this building is now home to LabCentral, which calls itself, “a launchpad for high-potential life sciences and biotech start-ups.” If you happen to be in the area, be sure to walk around the perimeter of the building to view the facade and plaques. 

Community Contributors

January 22, 2021

Make an Edit Add Photos
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web