Black inventors have made groundbreaking contributions across history, shaping fields like technology, science, and everyday life. Pioneers like Garrett Morgan, inventor of the traffic light, and Madam C.J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire, paved the way for modern innovators like Dr. Lonnie Johnson, creator of the Super Soaker, and Joy Buolamwini, a leader in ethical AI research. At the Black Inventors Museum, we honor these legacies with a comprehensive collection of inventor bios, timelines, and resources, including a free download of The Colored Inventor, the first book to document the achievements of Black inventors, compiled by Henry E. Baker.
The museum's exhibits showcase remarkable innovations that transformed American industry, from Jan Ernst Matzeliger's shoe-lasting machine that revolutionized footwear manufacturing to George Washington Carver's groundbreaking research in agricultural science. We highlight lesser-known inventors like Lewis Latimer, whose improvements to the light bulb were instrumental in making electric lighting practical and affordable, and Dr. Patricia Bath, whose Laserphaco Probe revolutionized cataract surgery.
Our interactive displays bring to life the perseverance of inventors like Granville Woods, known as the "Black Edison" for his numerous patents in electrical systems and railway technologies. We feature contemporary innovators like Dr. Mark Dean, who holds three of IBM's original nine PC patents, and Dr. Shirley Jackson, whose research laid the groundwork for fiber optic cables, portable fax machines, and caller ID.
This project was vital in preserving the rich history of Black innovation, and we proudly continue Baker's mission of celebrating and uplifting Black excellence. Download your free copy of The Colored Inventor today and join us in exploring this remarkable legacy!
Our dedication extends beyond preservation to inspiration, as we offer educational programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities connecting young inventors with industry leaders. Through virtual tours, traveling exhibits, and partnerships with schools nationwide, we ensure these stories of ingenuity and determination reach future generations of innovators.