Seeing how it is Black History Month, I thought I’d highlight to contributions that Blacks have made to society by way of technology.

Garrett Morgan

Garrett Morgan

The first honoree is Garrett Augustus Morgan.  Born March 4, 1877 in Paris Kentucky.  His natural mechanical aptitude led him to numerous repair jobs and eventually opening his own sewing machine repair shop (using equipment he invented and mad himself ) and his own newspaper.

modern gas mask 2

modern gas mask 2

In 1914 he patented the Morgan safety hood and smoke protector intended for miners. This same hood was used 2 years later to rescue 32 men trapped in a tunnel beneath Lake Erie.  With all of the notoriety, his safety hood sold to firehouses all over the U.S.

modern gas hood

modern gas hood

Morgan’s tinkering didn’t stop there, he also patented a traffic signal, a sewing machine accessory and numerous hair products.  Google him and see what you find

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