World War I Influences Telecommunication Tech

In 1920, telephones became more prominent and affordable. The telegraph was declining in popularity for the general public in the United States, although the telegraph was very important during World War I and continued to be used during World War II. Telegrams were the quietest and easiest way for communication between war correspondents in Europe and officials back in the United States. In addition to communicating new information and developments, notices of a soldier’s death or wounding were communicated to family members, such as the telegram below regarding Roman Raupp from Buffalo Grove. Soldiers could also send notes to their families to keep them up to date after a major battle.

Telephones Expand

In addition to telegrams, telephones were also used during World War I, but primarily on the front. Telegrams were used for the long distance communication. Telephones consisted of just a wire in the ground between two points nearby on the battlefield.

Back home, telephone operators continued to direct calls from one line to another, making calls much farther than those on the battlefield. As telephones expanded to other businesses and homes in Buffalo Grove, so did the furniture to fit it. Telephone tables and chair combinations, became a popular addition to homes and business. Some designs even had a bench and table combinations, called “gossip benches”.

Typewriters Take Over

In addition to handwriting letters, typewriters took on more prominence and were more affordable than they were in the 19th century. There were a couple different options too, depending on your budget.