Historical information

This is a Morse Code key. Morse Code is a method of transmitting text information using short and long signals (‘dots and dashes’). It is named after Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph and was developed in the 1860s. It was used extensively in the 1890s for early radio communication before it was possible to transmit voice and continued to be used in the 20th century along with voice transmission , especially by amateur radio persons. It was also used in military and naval communication but not so much today. It is believed that this Morse Code key belonged to Ted Salamy, a jeweller and the first person in Warrnambool to hold an amateur radio licence (1924 Call Sign A3AJ, the 35th licence issued in Victoria).

Significance

This Morse Code key is of interest as an object more used in the past, especially by amateur radio persons. It is believed to have been the property of Ted Salamy, the first person in Warrnambool to hold an amateur radio licence.

Physical description

This is a metal Morse Code key with an oval metal base. It has three screws inserted in the base and two more screws attached to the sides of the base. There is a key lever on top of the base and this is adjustable. The hinge on which the key lever sits is missing. The lever has a round black knob at one end.

Inscriptions & markings

‘Made in U.S.A. H15.682’
Wm.M. Nye Co Inc. Bellevue W.A.’