Alexander Graham BELL

Alfred NIAUDET 

The invention of the telephone and its first demonstration in France in 1877.

“You will have seen by the small printed matter of the Soc. of Physics that I had the pleasure of showing there on November 2, the first two telephones that were introduced in France. »

One of the most prodigious inventions in human history told by two of its essential actors: Alfred Niaudet and Alexander Graham Bell.

Extraordinary collection of two signed autograph letters relating to the revolutionary work of Alexander Graham Bell and the first use of the telephone in France, in Paris, in November 1877.

Alfred NIAUDET (1835- 1883)

Autograph letter signed. 

3 pages 8vo.

[Paris] November 8, 1877.

"Sir, could you send me a dozen brochures (industrial lighting by electric light - Heilmann and Schneider) or rather could you have them sent to me by the printer Vve Bader et Cie to whom I would be pleased to send the price. This brochure is sometimes requested of me and I would like to be able to have it read to people who want it.

You will have seen by the small prints of the Soc. of Physics that I had the pleasure of showing there on November 2, the first two telephones that were introduced in France.

It is a very extraordinary invention, in its present state; it will certainly improve, but from now on, one cannot help feeling a certain emotion when one hears the voice of a friend through a telegraph wire.

Last night, we tried between Paris and St Germain and despite terrible weather, we heard many words, recognized the voice of our correspondent, heard Au Clair de la Lune sing. I was gripped as if I had never heard the telephone. Believe, Sir, in my devoted sentiments. Alfa. Niaudet.” 

Alexander GRAHAM BELL (1847- 1922)

Autograph letter signed to Alfred Niaudet. 

2 pages 12vo – University of Glasgow letterhead paper.

[Glasgow] November 9, 1877.

“My dear Sir, many thanks for your interesting letter, and for the papers forwarded. I shall be in Paris in the course of six or eight days and hope to meet you there. I send newspaper containing accounts of my lecture here. Sir William Thomson’s remarks were so excellent that they should certainly be translated into French– and will carry great weight. In haste. Yours truly. Alexander Graham Bell.”