Geograph - photograph every grid square

The first transatlantic cable to achieve long term success was laid from Foilhommerum, Valentia Island to Heart's Content, Newfoundland on the 13th July 1866 by the largest ship of that time, 'The Great Eastern'. Queen Victoria and President Andrew Johnson exchanged congratulatory messages via the transatlantic cable on 29th July 29 1866, just two days after the Great Eastern arrived at Heart's Content.

The cable station in Knightstown opened on 20th September 1868 and was closed in 1966 by Western Union International. The cable station is now a factory and the cable houses are now private homes. The buildings are situated on the lower road from Knightstown to Chapeltown. The cable stations at Waterville and Ballinskelligs were also recognised as IEEE Electrical Engineering Milestones with plaques placed at each station.