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U.S. Patent for Electric Lamp – Joseph V. Nichols & Lewis H. Latimer (1881)

Publication
This document is an official U.S. Patent Office record for Patent No. 247,097, granted to Joseph V. Nichols and Lewis H. Latimer on September 13, 1881 for improvements in incandescent electric lamps. The patent application was filed on April 18, 1881, detailing advancements in the design and construction of the incandescent light bulb, specifically regarding the method of mounting carbon filaments and connecting them with electrical wires. The patent includes: A detailed technical description of the improved electric lamp. An explanation of the carbon filament's structure, including how it is secured, carbonized, and mounted within a sealed vacuum bulb. An innovation in perforated carbon strips that allows for better electrical contact and longevity of the lamp. A method to enhance durability by reducing heat damage to electrical connections. The document is partially torn at the bottom and along the left edge, but remains largely legible and intact.
U.S. Patent for Electric Lamp – Joseph V. Nichols & Lewis H. Latimer (1881) picture number 1
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Lewis H. Latimer was a pioneering Black inventor and engineer who played a crucial role in refining and improving the incandescent light bulb. He worked with Alexander Graham Bell, Hiram Maxim, and Thomas Edison, and his contributions were instrumental in making electric lighting practical and accessible. This patent represents one of Latimer’s major contributions to electric lighting technology. His improvements in filament mounting and electrical conductivity significantly extended the lifespan of light bulbs, helping to bring electricity into homes and businesses on a large scale. This patent was filed before Latimer joined Thomas Edison’s team at the Edison Electric Light Company, further proving his independent influence in electrical innovation.

The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup]Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]