Left: “Thomas A. Edison talking: from New York to Buffalo, Buffalo to Chicago, etc. Made in 1888.” [Theo Wangemann’s handwriting.] Center: “Soprano sung by Effie Stewart taken January 1889 by A. Theo E.Wangemann.” [Theo Wangemann’s handwriting.] Right: "Fifth Regiment March played by Issler Orch March 1889 taken by W.H. Miller.” [Walter H. Miller’s handwriting.]

Click the highlighted links to hear the selection.

"Around the World on the Phonograph"

This spoken-word recording made circa late October 1888 is believed to be the oldest surviving recording of Thomas Edison's voice. The informal message (click here to read a transcript) whimsically describes an imagined trip "around the world on the phonograph," by Cunard steamer from New York City to Liverpool, through Europe and Asia, giving specific ships, railroads, cities, and points of interest en route.

"The Pattison Waltz"

Miss Effie Stewart, a soprano soloist at St. Patrick's Cathedral of New York City, recorded this vocal selection in West Orange on February 25, 1889. Edison technician Theo Wangemann accompanies Stewart on the piano. Stewart's recordings for Edison are among the earliest efforts to record "serious" vocal music.

"Fifth Regiment March"

This lively medley of popular tunes captures the Golden Age of the brass band. Walter H. Miller, the longtime manager of Thomas Edison's Recording Department, identified this brass band recording as played by Issler's Orchestra in March 1889.

Each of the recordings was cut on a "yellow parafin" blank. Click here to explore "yellow paraffin" wax cylinders.

Newspaper clipping, New York Tribune, October 26, 1888. A phonograph demonstration given in Orange, New Jersey, on October 25, 1888, included: "Mr. Edison's account of his trip around the world," a soprano solo by Miss Effie Stewart, and a brass band selection.