National Emma M. Nutt Day 📞

Overview

National Emma M. Nutt Day, observed annually on September 1st, commemorates Emma M. Nutt, who made history as the first female telephone operator in the United States. Hired by the Edwin Holmes Telephone Dispatch Company in Boston on this date in 1878, her employment marked a significant shift in the telecommunications industry, paving the way for countless women to join the workforce as operators, a role they soon dominated due to their perceived politeness and patience compared to their male predecessors.

Observed each year on September 1, National Emma M. Nutt Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Origin and story

Emma M. Nutt was hired on September 1, 1878, by the Edwin Holmes Telephone Dispatch Company in Boston.

Before women like Nutt were hired, teenage boys typically served as telephone operators but were often criticized for rudeness.

Quick facts

• DateSeptember 1
• TypeCultural / community observance
• Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

• Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.
• Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by National Emma M. Nutt, or play music that matches the mood.
• Share one fast fact about National Emma M. Nutt Day: Emma M. Nutt was hired on September 1, 1878, by the Edwin Holmes Telephone Dispatch Company in Boston.
• Add National Emma M. Nutt Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
• Bring National Emma M. Nutt Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.

Fun facts

• Emma M. Nutt was hired on September 1, 1878, by the Edwin Holmes Telephone Dispatch Company in Boston.
• Before women like Nutt were hired, teenage boys typically served as telephone operators but were often criticized for rudeness.
• Nutt reportedly worked as a telephone operator for an impressive 33 years, remaining in the role until at least 1911.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is National Emma M. Nutt Day?

It is observed on September 1 each year.

What is National Emma M. Nutt Day?

National Emma M. Nutt Day, observed annually on September 1st, commemorates Emma M. Nutt, who made history as the first female telephone operator in the United States. Hired by the Edwin Holmes Telephone Dispatch Company in Boston on this date in 1878, her employment marked a significant shift in the telecommunications industry, paving the way for countless women to join the workforce as operators, a role they soon dominated due to their perceived politeness and patience compared to their male predecessors.

How do people celebrate National Emma M. Nutt Day?

Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.

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