I don't believe I ever got a telegram, but ran across one recently in a box of old papers, informing my father that the union was going on strike at the rubber factory, some time back in the late 1950's I believe.
My grandmother told me that during WWII, when the Western Union boy was seen coming down the street, the wives and mothers and sweethearts would stand on their porches praying he wouldn't stop at their house. When he passed, they'd gather on the sidewalk and follow him down the street, prepared to give the sympathy that only another woman worried about her son, husband, boyfriend (or daughter) could give to a woman who might be changing that Blue Star in her window to a Gold one. Sometimes, they'd be able to share in a joyous celebration....."HE'S COMING HOME!!!! " or "THEY FOUND HIS PLANE! HE'S ALIVE!!!!"
I've never received nor sent a telegram, personally or professionally. I don't believe I've ever seen one.