First Phone Exchange in Wilkinsburg

The first phone exchange in Wilkinsburg was built in 1899 and located in a one room structure. The building was equipped with six switchboards, four enuncitators and two lockout boards as well as the terminal rack, public pay station booth and one forncer partitioned off cloak cupboard. The batteries were located in the cellar. The number of subscribers at this time was approximately 400.

Telephone users at the time were advised to "turn the crank with a brisk, steady motion; central and branch offies will answer by voice. When conversation ends, hang the receiving telephone on the hook turn the 'crank call' to notify central that you are through"

As demand for telephones rapidly grew, the telephone exchange moved to a larger facility on South Ave. (point 66).