Herman Stern Makes History with Fargo’s First Trans-Atlantic Call

On December 13, 1938, Valley City resident Herman Stern made local history by receiving Fargo’s first trans-Atlantic telephone call. This momentous event connected him with relatives in Paris, France, marking a significant milestone in communication for the city.

Stern described the experience as remarkable, stating that he encountered no difficulties in conversing with his family across the ocean. The call took place at 11 p.m. Paris time, which translated to 4 p.m. in Valley City. This successful connection highlights the advancements in communication technology during the late 1930s.

The historic call not only showcases an important technological achievement but also reflects the personal connections that such innovations facilitate. For Stern, speaking with family members thousands of kilometers away was an extraordinary experience, bringing a sense of closeness despite the geographical distance.

As telecommunication technology continued to evolve rapidly, this event was an early indication of the global connectivity that would soon become commonplace. The ability to communicate instantly across borders laid the groundwork for the interconnected world we live in today.

Valley City now commemorates this landmark moment in its history, celebrating a day when distance became less of a barrier for families and friends.