35 Facts About Garrett Morgan

Early Life and Education

Garrett Morgan was a remarkable inventor and businessman. His contributions have had a lasting impact on various fields. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his life and achievements.

1. Born on March 4, 1877, in Claysville, Kentucky, Garrett Augustus Morgan was the seventh of eleven children.
2. His parents, Sydney and Elizabeth Morgan, were former slaves. This background influenced his determination and work ethic.
3. Morgan only completed elementary school. Despite this, he continued to educate himself, particularly in mechanical engineering.
4. At the age of 14, he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, to find work. This move marked the beginning of his journey toward becoming an inventor.

Career Beginnings

Morgan's career began with humble jobs, but his curiosity and ingenuity soon led him to greater things.

5. He started as a handyman for a wealthy landowner. This job allowed him to learn about machinery and tools.
6. In 1895, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he worked as a sewing machine repairman. His skills quickly gained him a reputation.
7. Morgan opened his own sewing machine repair shop in 1907. This business was his first step into entrepreneurship.
8. He later expanded his business to include a tailoring shop. Here, he invented a belt fastener for sewing machines, which improved efficiency.

Inventions and Innovations

Garrett Morgan's inventive mind led to several groundbreaking inventions that have saved countless lives.

9. In 1912, he invented a safety hood and smoke protector. This device was an early version of the gas mask.
10. The safety hood gained national attention in 1916 when Morgan used it to rescue workers trapped in a tunnel explosion under Lake Erie.
11. Morgan patented the safety hood in 1914. It was widely used by fire departments across the country.
12. He received a gold medal from the International Association of Fire Chiefs for his invention.
13. In 1923, Morgan invented the three-position traffic signal. This device included a "warning" position, which greatly improved road safety.
14. He sold the rights to his traffic signal to General Electric for $40,000, a significant sum at the time.

Business Ventures

Morgan's entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond his inventions. He was also a successful businessman.

15. He founded the Cleveland Call newspaper in 1920. This publication served the African American community in Cleveland.
16. Morgan also started a cosmetics company. One of his products was a hair straightening cream, which became quite popular.
17. His businesses provided employment opportunities for many African Americans during a time of widespread racial discrimination.
18. Morgan was known for his philanthropy. He donated to various causes, including schools and churches.

Personal Life and Legacy

Garrett Morgan's personal life and legacy are as inspiring as his professional achievements.

19. He married Mary Hasek in 1908. They had three children together.
20. Morgan was active in the civil rights movement. He was a member of the NAACP and supported efforts to improve the lives of African Americans.
21. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his life, including honorary degrees from several universities.
22. Morgan's inventions have had a lasting impact on public safety and technology.
23. He passed away on July 27, 1963, at the age of 86. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of inventors and entrepreneurs.

Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known facts about Garrett Morgan that highlight his diverse interests and talents.

24. Morgan was an avid reader. He believed in the power of education and self-improvement.
25. He enjoyed playing the violin. Music was one of his many passions.
26. Morgan was also a skilled chess player. He often played to relax and unwind.
27. He held over 20 patents for his various inventions and innovations.
28. Morgan's safety hood was used by the U.S. Army during World War I.
29. He was the first African American in Cleveland to own an automobile.
30. Morgan's traffic signal was the precursor to the modern traffic light system used worldwide.
31. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2005.
32. Morgan's life and work have been featured in numerous books and documentaries.
33. His contributions to public safety are commemorated in various museums and institutions.
34. Morgan's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.
35. He remains an inspirational figure, demonstrating that determination and creativity can overcome any obstacle.

Garrett Morgan's Lasting Legacy

Garrett Morgan's contributions have left a lasting impact on society. His inventions like the gas mask and traffic signal have saved countless lives. Beyond his technical achievements, Morgan's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to improving public safety highlight his importance in history. He broke barriers as an African American inventor during a time of significant racial challenges. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of innovation and perseverance. Morgan's story continues to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams and make a difference. His life and work remain a testament to the enduring impact one person can have on the world.