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In an earlier thread JohnM had asked for any documents related to the Shell-O-Phone that he has in his collection (http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... f=2&t=2155). We found and posted earlier the patent that was awarded to Robert L. Poe for the "Shellophone" in 1920. (http://www.shell-o-phone.com/images/136 ... ophone.pdf)

I was just able to uncover today a patent awarded to Mr. Poe in 1917 for a "Talking Machine Cabinet Design", which we see strongly resembles the few Shell-O-Phones we know of today. It is available at http://www.shell-o-phone.com/images/515 ... t-1917.pdf.

Clearly Mr. Poe spent a few years formulating his vision. It is a shame it apparently ended so quickly. I realize I might be the only person in the world interested in this, so I apologize for any intrusion. Just thought it was cool info.

Well, that's one of the wonderful things about this hobby. You may be the only one interested - - REALLY interested - - but you can enjoy pursuing it as far as possible, then later when collectors have a question regarding Robert L. Poe or Shell-o-phone, they'll all come to YOU! Most anyone can become an authority on something in this hobby.

If I had a Shell-o-phone, I'd be digging just like you are. If you go to Googlepatents.com and search under "Robert L. Poe", you should find all his patents. Good luck and have fun!

George P.

Thank you! I had no idea about Google patents. First glance there I found a 1919 patent for the wooden horn design used in the Shell-o-Phone. Interestingly I found a few from the same period from him relating to improvements to cooking ranges. No wonder Shell-O-Phone folded so quickly. The man needed to focus!

Of course we really do not know anything about who actually funded or managed the company. Very few online records from that era. I will be in Chicago next month, and intend to do some research while there.

Thanks again for the tip. Much appreciated.