French Cable Hut, Historic telegraph building near Nauset Beach Light in Eastham, Massachusetts
The French Cable Hut is a small single-story wooden structure with a gable roof, roughly 10 by 15 feet in size and white trim details. It originally served as a communication center linking transatlantic telegraph cables from France to the main station in Orleans.
The building was constructed in 1891 and operated until 1932 when international telegraphy gave way to newer communication technologies. This period marked an important phase in wired communication between two continents.
This structure represents early international communication and shows how coastal Massachusetts connected Europe and North America. Visitors can see how important this small location was for linking people across continents.
The building is maintained by the National Park Service within Cape Cod National Seashore and is visible near Nauset Beach Light. Visitors can explore the exterior and it is easily accessible on foot from the lighthouse area.
During restoration between 1998 and 2000, the building was moved about 60 meters from its original location due to coastal erosion threats. This relocation saved the structure from collapsing into the ocean.
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