attached to the box on front. The receiver was removed and the crank turned completely around for a long ring and a half turn for a short ring. Phone numbers were, for example, two long and three short rings. The rings were heard all along the line and, of course, everyone knew who was receiving a call.

The rural party line was more than just a feature of early tele- phone service. lt was an institution all by itself. It could be both a blessing and a curse, however, the party line helped bring scattered and otherwise isolated people together in times of crisis, celebration and grief. “Listening in” was both recreation and a diversion - the thing to do. Tuning in on other people’s private lives was a means of starting the day right - a day full of gossip which provided continual entertainment for many. It was as good as any soap opera of the modern age.

Telephone ()fi‘ice - right

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