The United States patent system was one of the most democratic government systems when it was first established. This is clearly demonstrated in Hagley’s unique collection of 19th-century patent models. Unlike other parts of American life, the early patent process was not closed off to individuals because of their race, ethnicity, or gender.
In the past, not disclosing race, ethnicity, or gender meant that patent applications were often judged solely on the merits of inventions. But in the present, this lack of information makes it incredibly challenging for museums, archives, and other organizations to learn more about the identities of historic inventors. Sometimes researchers get lucky and uncover the important stories behind the objects in their collections. And that’s just what Hagley’s curators have done!
Join Hagley Museum curators Caroline Western-Osienski and Christopher Cascio for an engaging, online presentation highlighting the experiences of Black inventors in the 19th century, as well as the amazing life stories of two Black inventors represented in Hagley’s patent model collection.
This is a FREE, Zoom-based presentation that takes place Thursday, February 22nd, from 7 pm to 8 pm.
Once you have registered for the event, the Zoom link will be sent in a confirmation email.