Elizabeth Blackwell
Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to receive a medical doctor’s degree in the United States in 1849. Children could learn more about Blackwell at: Elizabeth Blackwell. They could read Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell, written by Tanya Lee Stone and illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. They could also interview an expert to find out how someone becomes a doctor.
Safety Pins
Speaking of patents…the safety pin was patented by Walter Hunt in 1849. He received Patent Number 6,281. Children can examine his patent at: Safety Pin Patent.
Lincoln’s Patent
Abraham Lincoln in 1849 received patent #6469 for “A Device for Buoying Vessels Over Shoals.” After working with boats that were stuck on sand bars, he invented the device that would inflate and move ships to water. However, the device was heavy enough that it caused problems. The model, whittled by Lincoln, is on display at the Smithsonian. Children can see the model and read more at: Lincoln Model. They can view the actual patent at: Lincoln Patent. Lincoln is the only president to hold a patent.