Lewis H. Latimer Patent – Process of Manufacturing Carbons (No. 252,386), January 17, 1882

Lewis H. Latimer was an African American inventor and engineer whose contributions to electric lighting were instrumental in the development of practical incandescent light bulbs. This patent specifically relates to his improvements in producing carbon filaments, which significantly increased the efficiency and longevity of electric lamps. His work helped commercialize Edison's light bulb and contributed to the broader adoption of electric lighting.
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
Header: "(No Model.) L. H. LATIMER. PROCESS OF MANUFACTURING CARBONS. No. 252,386. Patented Jan. 17, 1882." Technical Drawings Labels: "Fig. 1" (Depicts a component of the carbon manufacturing process) "Fig. 2" (Detailed sectional view of the process) "Fig. 3" (Cross-section with additional details) Signatures: "Inventor, Lewis H. Latimer" "By Parker & Page, Attys" "Witnesses: A.R. Ransom"