Patent Certificate for Louis H. Latimer’s "Apparatus for Cooling and Disinfecting"
Louis H. Latimer (1848–1928) was an African American inventor and draftsman, best known for his work on electric lighting and his contributions to the development of the carbon filament for incandescent bulbs. He was a key figure in the patenting of electric light innovations and worked closely with Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. This patent showcases his expertise in engineering and his contributions beyond lighting technology. The document represents a significant achievement in Black history, illustrating Latimer’s role as a pioneering inventor during an era when African Americans faced systemic barriers to recognition and opportunity.
The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup]Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
United States of America To all to whom these presents shall come: Whereas Lewis H. Latimer, of New York, New York has presented to the Commissioner of Patents a petition praying for the grant of Letters Patent for an alleged new and useful improvement in Apparatus for Cooling and Disinfecting, a description of which invention is contained in the Specification of which a copy is hereunto annexed and made a part hereof, and has complied with the various requirements of Law in such cases made and provided: Whereas upon due examination made the said claimant—adjudged to be justly entitled to a Patent under the Law: Now therefore these Letters Patent are to grant unto the said Lewis H. Latimer, his heirs or assigns for the term of seventeen years from the ____ day of ____ in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty- the exclusive right to make, use and vend the said invention throughout the United States and the Territories thereof. The lower portion of the document includes a large red embossed seal and signatures, affirming the patent's issue by the Commissioner of Patents.
Aisha Abdul Rahman