You got it.
It was how they/we used to answer if asked from the operator.
What number you calling from? Davis 2409.
I never knew why really..
But the first three numbers was, and still are-324. That is actually our first telephone number. AND at that time, there was just three on the line-a party line. Auntie ***** get off the line, this is between me and so and so.
Yes. It was TUlip 2 (then the last four numbers) in one neighborhood of my youth. Those names were easy to remember.