One of the audio-video magazines stated that David Read was 79 when he passed on shortly after this past Easter. It also states that he got his first telegrapher job in 1949. That would make him 13 or 14. It also states that his telegraphy was with the SP. This seems improbable. Also, we know from past Trains and Classic Trains articles that he worked in the Sacramento Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding Shop as a machinist helper and then machinist, on steam locomotives, before he was an SP tower operator (including telegraphy). His first job of any kind was as a messenger boy for Western Union. So was he a telegrapher for Western Union as a teenager?
I recall Dave telling me once that we were of the same age, and I am 83. Working for the SP at 17 and 18 is more realistic that 13 - 14.
If any reader know the facts, please respond as soon as possible. Thanks.
Sorry Dave, I can’t find anything new except
http://ctr.trains.com/issues/2015/summer-2015
When Trains Ran Late — and Telegraphers Earned Their PayBy R. David Read
Sit in with a telegrapher on SP’s San Joaquin Division on a typically busy night in the 1950s
Have not received my copy yet. Hopefully his spirit will appreciate his article being published.
I did get the fact that he was born in Decedmber 1935, so was in fact 79 at death. His 1949 telegraphy experience must have been with Western Union in Canada, and not the SP, which came later.
THANKS
AND THE JULY ISSUE ARRIVED!!!
Posted on the website www.proaudioencyclopedia.com
R. David Read, a Biography – by David Lloyd Klepper
Jun 9, 2015 | Posted by Chris Foreman | History Of Professional Audio, People | 0 comments
R. David Read and his wife, Sharon – Photo Courtesy Sound & Communications Magazine
R. David Read passed on a few days after Easter of 2015, at the age of 79. Born in his Canada, his first job was as a Western Union messenger boy where he learned Morse code. After high-school and his family move to the USA, he applied
