Speaking tube, c. 1870

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Speaking tube, c. 1870

Gentleman in his study using a speaking tube to communicate with another room. Date: C.1870

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 23272628

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Communicate Communicating Communication Desk Gentleman Sep19 Speaking Study Tube Tubes Communicates

EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken around 1870, depicts a gentleman in deep concentration as he communicates with another room using an innovative speaking tube. The gentleman is seated at a well-appointed desk, surrounded by the trappings of a sophisticated study: books, documents, and various writing implements. The speaking tube, a marvel of 1870s technology, is positioned prominently on the desk, its long, curved tube reaching towards an adjacent room. Speaking tubes, also known as pneumatic tubes or vacuum pipes, were a popular means of communication in the late 19th century. They allowed for the rapid transmission of messages between different parts of large buildings, such as offices, hospitals, and even private homes. The tubes worked by creating a vacuum or pressure inside the tube, which propelled messages, often in the form of sealed capsules, through the system. The gentleman in the photograph appears to be in the midst of a serious conversation, his expression intense as he listens intently through the tube. The use of this technology not only allowed for quicker communication but also added an element of privacy and discretion, as messages could be transmitted without the need for verbal exchange between rooms. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and innovation of the 1870s. It also highlights the importance of effective communication, even in the most private of settings. The speaking tube, a precursor to modern communication technologies, remains a testament to the human desire to connect and communicate, no matter the distance or circumstances.

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