Where Did That Come From?

In May we acknowledge the role of women as mothers when we celebrate Mother’s Day.  Through the centuries women from all countries and of many races have made significant contributions in all fields.  Some of them have been celebrated and acknowledged such as women in science and medicine.  Elizabeth Blackwell was the first woman doctor in the US.  She graduated from medical school in 1849.  Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross and cared for soldiers during the Civil War.  Rosalyn Sussman Yalow developed the technique making it possible to scan blood donations for infectious diseases.

However, there are women who are “Mothers of Invention” and whose ideas have made a major impact on our day-to-day life.  These women all belong to the group of great American tinkerers who have made our lives easier and more efficient.  Most people are unaware of their contributions.  

• Margaret Knight – the square bottom paper bag
• Mary Anderson – the windshield wiper
• Florence Lawrence – turn and brake signals
• Katherine Blodgett – nonreflecting glass
• Marion O’Brien Donoyan – disposable diapers
• Stephanie Kwolek – kevlar (synthetic fabric stronger than steel of the same weight)
• Josephine Cochrane – dishwasher

We should all consider these outstanding women and the many more worldwide who have affected our lives so significantly.