Emma M. Nutt Day

Emma M. Nutt Day celebrates the first woman telephone operator in America. Emma became an employee of a telephone exchange company on September 1, 1878, and worked in this position for over 33 years. Until 1878, only men worked as operators, but Emma changed that. Her soft, soothing manner of speaking was very popular, and since then, telephone companies began to hire more women. Emma’s sister, Stella, also became an operator.

History

Initially, the Boston telephone company hired young men as operators. However, their manner of speaking and behavior were often deemed unsuitable for the role. They were laconic, engaging in pranks, and even rudeness. Finding this unacceptable, the company’s management decided to hire women instead. Emma M. Nutt was the first, starting her job on September 1, 1878, with a salary of $10 for a 54-hour work week.

Interesting Facts

• Emma Nutt will forever remain a symbol that bots will not replace human communication.
• World War II began on Emma Nutt’s 61st birthday.
• Lily Tomlin, the famous American actress who played a telephone operator in the TV series “Laugh-In,” was also born on September 1st.
• Callers adored Emma for her special soothing voice.
• Emma was highly skilled at hitting the right keys and connecting the cables correctly.
• Before becoming a telephone operator, Emma passed tests for measurements of height, body weight, and arm length, required due to the specific setup of the operator rooms.
• Emma worked as an operator at a telephone exchange for 33 years.

How to take part

Learn more about this amazing woman, whose biography represents a significant historical era. Emma changed history and opened up a new profession for women. Write about her on social networks and let Emma’s story inspire others to strive for success.

When is Emma M. Nutt Day in 2024?

Emma M. Nutt Day is observed on September 1 each year.

Observations