The Spirit of Service 1984 Telephone Pioneers Collector Plate – Blizzard of 1888
A carefully chosen piece from the cupboard.
Ships with care from Pittsburgh ✨
Each item inside Mrs. Bones Curio Cupboard is selected with intention—never ordinary, never without a story.
Some are handcrafted. Some are discovered. All are chosen to bring a little intrigue, beauty, or curiosity into your world.
Honor the courage and dedication of early telephone workers with “The Spirit of Service,” a 1984 commemorative collector plate from the Telephone Pioneers of America series, issued by Surrey Group.
The artwork commemorates Annie MacDonald, remembered for guarding a section of the New York–Boston–Maine telephone line during the historic Blizzard of 1888. The back of the plate recounts this episode of telecommunications history and bears the Telephone Pioneers of America emblem.
Second in a 12-plate series, this plate belongs to an edition stated to be limited to 20,000. The reverse carries an individually handwritten plate number and an original Made in Japan sticker.
- Title: The Spirit of Service
- Year: 1984
- Series: Telephone Pioneers of America — second of 12 plates
- Issuer: Surrey Group
- Subject: Annie MacDonald and the Blizzard of 1888
- Origin: Japan, as marked on the original sticker
- Edition: Individually numbered; stated limit of 20,000 plates
- Condition: Pre-owned decorative collector plate; examine the photographs for the plate's actual condition.
A distinctive display piece for collectors of telephone history, historical Americana, commemorative porcelain, and antique communications memorabilia. Decorative display only; food safety has not been established. Original box and certificate of authenticity are not shown or included.
Perfect for gifting, collecting, or keeping something a little unexpected for yourself.
Availability:
Some pieces are one-of-a-kind or limited in quantity. Once they’re gone, they may not return.
✔ Available online
✔ Carefully packed and shipped
✔ From our Pittsburgh-based curio space
Every piece you find here has a story behind it.
Not everything here is meant for everyone.
Curated, Not Mass Made
Each item is chosen for its story, character, and charm—not to fill a shelf. Every piece arrives with intention, never by accident.
Always Changing
The cupboard evolves constantly. What’s here today may be gone tomorrow, so every visit is a little adventure—discover something unexpected each time.
Packed With Care
Every order is thoughtfully prepared and shipped from our Pittsburgh-based curio space, ensuring your treasures arrive safely and ready to delight.