First Telephone Exchange in Portland (History Sign)

The sign says:

“On this site, August 2, 1878, at No. 3 First Avenue, Portland’s FIRST Telephone Exchange began operations in a back room of the Western Union building. The American Telephone and District Telegraph Company’s pioneer switchboard served 32 customers. Five operators handled all calls. There is also a plaque on the Packer-Scott building across the street (see Gallery).”

Another source says it only had 31 customers.

The sign is located in Ankeny Square, near Skidmore Fountain