overall: 3 in x 2 1/2 in x 7 1/2 in; 7.62 cm x 6.35 cm x 19.05 cm
Object Name:
semi-automatic key
sending key
telegraph key
Other Terms:
telegraph key; Telegraphy
Description (Brief):
Telegraph keys are electrical on-off switches used to send messages in Morse code. A semi-automatic telegraph key like this one allows an operator to send land-line and wireless telegraph messages at a much faster rate than with an ordinary key. The key automatically produces rapid morse code dots by using a weighted pendulum to quickly make and break contact in the electrical circuit. The operator still makes the dashes manually. This key was used by Postal Telegraph operator Bryant W. Fields in the early 1910s.
