Connections Museum in Seattle: A Tourist Guide

If you’re curious about how communication evolved and which technologies were used across different eras, make sure to explore one of Seattle’s most fascinating museums. It’s a true discovery for those interested in the history of technology and eager to see how the world of communication has transformed. The museum captivates visitors not only with its historical exhibits but also with interactive areas that appeal to both adults and children alike.

Museum's Highlights

The Museum of Communications, formerly the Herbert Warrick Jr. Museum of Communications, is located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle. He exhibits communication equipment of all kinds and has at his disposal rare apparatus, from telegraphs and teletypes to telephone booths.

The Museum of Communications in Seattle can claim to be a complete coverage of the history of communications, although it would be more accurate to call it a museum of the telephone. However, this narrow area does not make the collection of vintage telephone equipment any less attractive.

Here is a large selection of beautiful devices: from a replica of the same telephone, on which Alexander Graham Bell spoke the immortal words: “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you” to the relatively modern telephone booths that were once everywhere. In addition to the larger relics of telecommunications, there are also a large number of telephones from the 19th and 20th century.

Particular attention is paid to the products of AT&T, once a communications monopoly company. The collection also has a small section on the UNIX operating system, created by Bell Labs in 1969.

In the museum you will see equipment for PBX "Step-by-step" and "Crossbar", antique telephones, switches and other equipment related to communications and communications. It also has a cataloged telecommunications reference library useful for researchers.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of the museum is the fact that a large number of telephones and equipment on display are still in working order.

Story

The museum was co-founded by the non-profit community organization Pioneers and the volunteer network Pacific Northwest Bell, founded by Don Aostran and Herb Warrick.

It was originally supposed to be one of three telephone museums in the northwestern United States, but it ended up being the only one that was destined to come true.

Work on it began in 1985, and it was opened to the public only in the fall of 1989. In 2016, the museum rose to fame with a video on Tom Scott's popular YouTube channel as part of the "Things You Don't Know About" series.

Exhibits

The museum features rare and unique exhibits that provide insight into how communication technologies have evolved over time.

• Telegraphs

This area of the museum contains the telegraph and teletype machines that were responsible for international calls, leased lines, and secure communications.

The telegraph was invented by Samuel Morse in the 1840s. This is a device for communication between two remote locations. Operators at both ends of the line sent and received messages using a series of electrical pulses and dashes. Each combination of dots and dashes represents a letter. The operator sent the message by letter, and the recipient wrote it down.

• Teletypes

Teletype machines were useful because they reproduced a written paper copy of the transmitted message. The museum exhibits many different types of teletypes dating back to 1918. In total, you will find more than 30 types here, including a German teletype created by Lorentz. This company during World War II created the Enigma, a device that turns text into encrypted messages.

Teletypes were later used by the FBI, commercial airlines, stock exchanges, and newspaper and radio news distribution services such as the Associated Press.

• Phones

Telephone sets are devices that subscribers did not originally own, but rented from the telephone company. The museum has many models, from a replica of Alexander Bell's first telephone to videophones.

The museum has a large collection of early wall telephones. They were popular in the early days of the technology because they were so large and heavy that they could not be physically moved. Many of the devices are fully functional.

The Connections Museum archive collection includes over 80,000 photographs and slides, numerous books, memorabilia and publications related to telecommunications technology, business, culture and people.

A Museum Kids Will Love

For families with children, this museum is an excellent destination for educational and entertaining outings. It features numerous interactive exhibits where kids can not only observe but actively participate. They can try using vintage telephones, send messages via telegraph or radio, and explore how communication technologies evolved over time.

Special emphasis is placed on educational games and exhibits that allow children to understand how communication works through hands-on experiences. For example, they can create simple messages using old devices or experiment with transmitting signals via radio waves. These activities not only engage young visitors but also help develop their attention and logical thinking skills.

The museum also offers comfortable rest areas where families can take a break and discuss what they’ve seen. All exhibits are designed to ensure that children can interact with them safely and easily.

A visit to this museum is not only educational but also fun for the entire family. It provides a unique opportunity to learn something new in an engaging and enjoyable way.

Practical Information for Visitors

If you’re planning a visit to the museum, here are some key details to help you organize your trip:

• The museum is open Monday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On public holidays, hours may vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance for any exceptions.
• Ticket prices depend on the visitor’s age. Admission is often free or heavily discounted for children and students. Adult tickets cost around $15 and can be purchased online or at the museum entrance.
• The museum is located in the heart of Seattle, making it convenient for tourists. It is easily accessible by public transportation, and there’s parking available nearby. Bike rentals and pedestrian routes are also an option if you prefer exploring the city on foot.
• For those who want a deeper understanding of the museum, group and private guided tours are available. Guides will share insights about the most fascinating exhibits and the museum’s history. Tour prices vary depending on the group size and duration.
• The museum also features a café where visitors can relax and grab a bite to eat. Rest areas, free Wi-Fi, and souvenir shops are available, offering a chance to take home something memorable from your visit.

These details ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the museum.

If you’d like to explore Seattle’s rich history and its main attractions in more depth, American Butler can help. Their personalized tours will introduce you to the city from a fresh perspective and ensure you get the most out of your visit.