Re: Telegraphers bug

In 2001 Jay Wimer presented a telegraphone that was represented as having been removed from a booth along the line. Perhaps the phrase "broker" was incorrect. I believe Jay was simply trying to liaison for the current owner on a gratuitous basis. Although the asking price was in excess of $1000, there was some suggestion that circumstances might provide for donation of the device.
At the time, I offered to underwrite the acquisition price of the telegraphone contingent on verification of authenticity and provision for creation of a suitable and secure display location. This offer was communicated to the highest level of the Friends, but received no response. Regretfully my relationship with the Friends subsequently ended in an accrimonious fashion
thus my willingness to purchase the device ended.
From recollection, the device was remarkably simplistic, and looked similar to a phone created in a "boy scout" project. It was weathered, consistent with having survived an outside environment. It probably lacked a manufacturers or model plate.
From reading Mr. Trump's description of the communication technologies, I suspect that it is more likely than not that the device was a telegraphone, rather than a telephone.
My recommendation would be that someone in Chama recontact the seller and obtain detailed digital photographs. Perhaps Mr. Trump could opine as to whether or not the devices are authentic.
When that is accomplished, perhaps minds can get together to revisit possible acquisition and display.
John