Bette Nesmith Graham

Overview

Bette Nesmith Graham was an American original, a woman who transformed a simple frustration into a multi-million dollar enterprise. From her humble beginnings in Texas to her legacy as an inventor and philanthropist, her story is a testament to ingenuity, perseverance, and the power of addressing everyday problems with creative solutions. This timeline highlights key moments in her life, tracing her journey from typist to the creator of Liquid Paper.

Main Milestones

Birth in Dallas, Texas

March 23, 1924

Bette Clair McMurray was born in Dallas, Texas, to Jesse McMurray and Christine Duval. Her early life was marked by the challenges of the Great Depression, instilling in her a strong work ethic and resourcefulness that would later define her entrepreneurial spirit.

Early Employment and Marriage

Late 1930s - Early 1940s

During her teenage years, Bette held various jobs to support her family. She married Warren Nesmith in 1941 shortly before he was sent to serve in World War II. This period highlighted her resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Divorce and Single Motherhood

1946

After the war, Bette and Warren divorced, leaving her a single mother to their son, Michael Nesmith (who would later become famous as a member of The Monkees). This pivotal moment spurred her to seek stable employment and greater financial independence.

Working as a Secretary at Texas Bank and Trust

1951

Bette secured a position as a secretary at Texas Bank and Trust, a job that required impeccable typing skills. It was here, struggling with the limitations of early typewriters and the lack of effective correction methods, that the seed of an idea was planted.

Invention of 'Mistake Out'

1956

Frustrated with the inability to easily correct typing errors, Bette drew upon her earlier experience as a commercial artist. Observing painters covering mistakes with a fresh coat of paint, she began experimenting with a white, water-based tempera paint to cover her typing errors. She initially called it 'Mistake Out' and began using it at work and sharing it with other secretaries.

Developing and Marketing Liquid Paper

Late 1950s - Early 1960s

Bette refined her formula and began producing 'Mistake Out' in her kitchen. She marketed her product locally, relying on word-of-mouth and direct sales to other secretaries and businesses. Gradually, demand grew, leading her to improve production methods and branding.

Renaming to 'Liquid Paper' and Expanding Operations

1967

As her business grew, Bette officially renamed her product 'Liquid Paper'. She established the Liquid Paper Corporation and continued to expand her manufacturing and distribution networks. The company moved from her home into a proper headquarters.

Sale to Gillette Corporation

1979

After years of building a successful business, Bette sold Liquid Paper to the Gillette Corporation for $47.5 million (equivalent to over $200 million today) plus royalties. This transaction marked the culmination of her entrepreneurial journey and solidified her legacy as a successful inventor and businesswoman.

Death in Richardson, Texas

May 12, 1980

Bette Nesmith Graham passed away in Richardson, Texas, at the age of 56. She left behind a significant fortune, much of which she had already allocated to charitable and philanthropic endeavors through foundations. Her life story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and inventors.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Education Timeline

Entrepreneurial Journey Timeline

Family and Personal Life Timeline

Liquid Paper as a Cultural Phenomenon Timeline

Philanthropy and Spirituality Timeline

Professional Career and Liquid Paper Timeline

Relationship with Michael Nesmith Timeline

Themed Timelines

Talks

Media Collections

Overview

Other Themed Timelines