Fifty years ago, the city of Huntington became the first city in the United States to be able to make and receive 9-1-1 calls.
Then-Congressman J. Edward Roush, who was a key backer of the new service…placed the first call for 9-1-1 in Huntington. That was in March of 1968.
Before 9-1-1, you had to dial “0” for the operator when you needed help and face possible busy signals. Or you’d have to find the number to the nearest fire or police station, which could be frustrating in an emergency.
