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Today in History: Ella Stewart sends first telegraphed message from Arizona

12/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 15, 1871, sixteen-year-old Ella Stewart became the first telegraph operator in Arizona Territory, sending the region's inaugural telegraphed message. Recruited by Brigham Young, she worked at the Deseret Telegraph Company in Pipe Spring, marking a significant milestone in Arizona's communication history. This event underscored the growing importance of telegraphy in the American West.

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Story summary

On December 15, 1871, sixteen-year-old Ella Stewart became the first telegraph operator in Arizona Territory, sending the region's inaugural telegraphed message. Recruited by Brigham Young, she worked at the Deseret Telegraph Company in Pipe Spring, marking a significant milestone in Arizona's communication history. This event underscored the growing importance of telegraphy in the American West.