On this day in 1868, Martha Jones of Amelia County, Virginia, became the first Black woman to receive a U.S. patent. Her invention, a cutting-edge improvement in the corn husker and sheller, showcased not only her ingenuity but also her courage in breaking through the racial and gender barriers of her time. Jones’ achievement is a testament to the often-overlooked contributions of Black women to science and technology, and her patent marks a significant milestone in American history, inspiring future generations of inventors and innovators.
