Sarah Boone - Black Inventor

Sarah Boone was an African American inventor who lived during the 19th century. She is known for her invention of the ironing board, which is still used today by people all over the world. Despite facing discrimination and adversity in her life, Boone persevered and made significant contributions to society.

Early Life

Sarah Boone was born in 1832 in Craven County, North Carolina. She was one of eleven children and grew up on a plantation. Her parents were enslaved, and Sarah and her siblings were likely forced to work in the fields from a young age.

Education and Career

Despite the obstacles she faced, Boone was determined to get an education. She attended school whenever she could, and eventually moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where she worked as a dressmaker. It was during this time that she came up with the idea for the ironing board.

Invention of the Ironing Board

Boone was frustrated with the cumbersome and inefficient ironing process of the time, which involved laying clothes on a table or flat surface to be ironed. She came up with the idea of creating a board with a narrow, curved shape that would fit better with the contours of clothing. She also added collapsible legs, making it easier to store and transport.

The ironing board was patented in 1892, making Boone one of the few African American women to hold a patent at that time. Her invention revolutionized the way people ironed their clothes, making it faster and more efficient.

Legacy

Sarah Boone's invention had a significant impact on society, and it is still used today. She was a trailblazer for women and people of color in the field of inventing, and her legacy continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Conclusion

Sarah Boone was an extraordinary woman who overcame adversity to make a lasting contribution to society. Her invention of the ironing board revolutionized the way people ironed their clothes, and her legacy serves as an inspiration for generations to come. We can all learn from her perseverance, determination, and creativity, and strive to make our own mark on the world.