City: Cape Cod, MA

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (508) 240-1735

Description: Built in 1890, this is the U.S. terminal for the first transatlantic cable laid between the United States and France via Newfoundland. The cable was 3,000 miles long and was used to transmit news of such important events as Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight in 1927 and the invasion of France by the Germans in 1940. Many of the original French cable operators immigrated to this country and settled in the area. The cable station was guarded by Marines during World War II because it provided an important link with U.S. operations in Europe. The station was closed in 1959, but all the original cables, instruments, and other equipment are still in place. It is open during July and Aug, Mon through Sat from 1 to 4 p.m.; June and Sept, Fri through Sun 1 to 4 p.m.; and at other times by special request. No admission fee is charge, although donations are accepted.