From Sitka to Seattle: Alaska's First Telegraph to the Continental United States
This Day in Alaska History: Telegraph in Alaska
Alaska's First Telegraph Message to the Continental United States
by The Alaska Life
History is made because of many different moving parts and elements coming together and doing something for the first time. Historical events in Alaska have a lot of moving parts—parts that travel incredible distances. And when it comes to the elements, especially weather, Alaska’s climate requires a bit more planning and consideration than many other geographical locations. The USS General Burnside, along with a number of other vessels, completed the difficult task of laying telegraph cable in Alaskan waters. On this day in history, they saw the fruit of their labors, and are an amazing example of what making history in Alaska requires.




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2 comments
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From Sitka to Seattle: Alaska’s First Telegraph to the Continental United States
This is a nitpick, but a nit many Alaskans will pick (probably due to the various ways to exclude Alaska, such as shipping, etc)… there are plenty of websites and ‘authorities’ to support either side of the debate on ‘continental’ vs ‘contiguous’. However, I believe we have definitions for a reason… and that ‘continental’ refers to anything on the continent… and that ‘contiguous’ is the accurate term not inviting a definitional debate. On the other hand, people will argue that we have a ‘living language’ which changes… which is simply a justification for saying anything.
In the end, contiguous is specific, continental is vague and misused… to the extent of trying to justify a phrase (continental United States) having a colloquial definition separate from the meaning of the words. It seems to have become a standard business phrase, although some opt for accuracy with contiguous.
Saying that ‘continental’ means everything not separated by an ocean or another country is a bit ridiculous.
I’ve seen others object to the phrase ‘Lower 48’ as being lower than what(?) since Hawaii is south of Florida, on a latitude level with Cuba.
Oh well… just odd to see something Alaskan refer to the Continental United States. Aren’t we a big island off California (per many maps)? Or ‘overseas’!