Name/Title
Graphophone Language Phone "Q Type"Entry/Object ID
265Description
International College of Languages, New York & London (ca. 1900)
This rare language teaching device combines early sound recording technology with modern language education. It was developed by Dr. Richard S. Rosenthal, who, under the name "Language Phone", introduced one of the world's first commercial uses of the phonograph in the field of education.
The apparatus is based on a modified Columbia Graphophone Type Q, enhanced with a special decal and matching instructional materials. The accompanying wax cylinders contained spoken language lessons in English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German.
The device was accompanied by printed manuals, such as the "Speaking and Pronouncing Manual – The Spanish Language" shown here, as well as illustrated brochures promoting the system as a revolutionary method for self-directed learning.
Although marketed primarily as a language learning machine, the Language Phone could also play standard entertainment cylinders — making it an early example of a multifunctional media device.
