APHS Receives Teletype Machine from Asbury Park Press

Historic Teletype Machine Finds New Home

In July, a relic of journalistic history was gifted to the Asbury Park Historical Society (APHS) by the Asbury Park Press (APP): a Teletype machine, now displayed at APHS’s headquarters, the Stephen Crane House. The donation coincides with the APP’s significant move from its longtime Route 66 location in Neptune to the Bell Works complex in Holmdel, marking the end of an era and a new chapter for the publication.

What's a Teletype Machine?

The Teletype machine was a workhorse of 20th-century newsrooms. Before the era of digital communications, it served as a critical link between journalists and wire services, delivering breaking news stories from around the world. The device worked by transmitting typed messages across networks, using electric pulses to encode text over long distances. Some have even likened it to the Twitter of its time, given its ability to instantly share updates and brief reports from far-flung sources.

The Teletype, now a rare find, represents both a technological milestone and a piece of cultural heritage, making it a fitting addition to APHS’s collection. Visitors can now view it at the Stephen Crane House, where it joins other exhibits that preserve the rich history of Asbury Park and its role in New Jersey’s cultural and media landscape.

Thanks, Asbury Park Press!

The APP’s move to Bell Works is notable as well. While the relocation embraces modern office amenities, it underscores the shift in journalism from a print-dominated field to a digital-first model. Bell Works, a tech and innovation hub, provides a dynamic new environment for APP staff, aligning with the industry’s evolution.

This donation preserves a piece of the APP’s legacy and gives locals and visitors a glimpse into the historic tools that once powered the world of news. The Teletype machine, now carefully housed by APHS, serves as a reminder of the press’s longstanding commitment to journalism in Asbury Park and beyond.

Visit the Stephen Crane House today to see the Teletype machine up close!