[DiogenesLamp]

In the ‘50s, my grandparents’ phone numbers were 927J2 and 903R1. (How do I even remember that?!) You picked up the receiver and told the lady, “927J2 please.” and she’d connect you.

That is really old school! I've seen it on television, but i've never used an operator to place a call.

[MayflowerMadam]

The area is very rural western NY state. Until just a few years ago you couldn’t direct dial long distance. You could dial the 10 digits (new-fangled for there), but STILL an operator broke in and asked, “What number are you calling from?” Maybe that happens now; I don’t know.