Go back

Edison "73" Birthday Luncheon – The Edison Pioneers, February 11, 1920

Photograph
A black-and-white photograph showing a formal gathering of individuals at Thomas Edison’s 73rd Birthday Luncheon in Orange, New Jersey, on February 11, 1920. The group consists of men and women, many dressed in overcoats and hats, posing in front of a brick industrial building. The image is labeled as “Compliments of The New York Edison Company” and documents a historic meeting of The Edison Pioneers, a group of early electrical engineers and associates of Thomas Edison.
Edison
DSC_7393 DSC_7395

The Edison Pioneers was an exclusive organization founded in 1918, consisting of individuals who had worked with Thomas Edison before 1885. This photograph captures their third annual meeting in 1920. Among the notable attendees was Lewis Howard Latimer, a contributor to Edison's electric lighting systems. Latimer, an African American inventor and engineer, played a role in developing carbon filament technology, which improved the durability of electric light bulbs. This photograph offers insight into the recognition of early electrical pioneers and their continued association with Edison’s legacy.

Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

“In 1918 28 men who had been associated with Thomas Alva Edison prior to 1885 formed the Edison Pioneers. They are shown here at the third annual meeting. Lewis Latimer is second from left, front row. Mr and Mrs Thomas A. Edison appear in the front row, center."