Mary Dixon Kies
Mary Dixon Kies
Comunity Hub
arrow-down
arrow-down
arrow-down

Timeline of Recognition and Neglect

This timeline chronicles the recognition and subsequent neglect of Mary Dixon Kies's contributions, from her initial acknowledgment during her lifetime to the later rediscovery and appreciation of her pioneering work.
First Lady Dolley Madison's Acknowledgment
1809
First Lady Dolley Madison, a prominent figure in early American society, recognized Mary Dixon Kies's invention and praised her ingenuity. This endorsement provided a boost to Kies's reputation and potentially helped promote her invention. Dolley Madison symbolized patriotic virtue and highlighted the importance of domestic manufacturing during a time of international tension.
Limited Documentation and Fading Recognition
Early 19th Century
Despite the initial recognition, documentation about the widespread adoption of Mary Dixon Kies's specific technique and its long-term impact remains limited. Her contribution gradually faded from popular memory and historical records.
Rediscovery and Reassessment
20th Century Onward
In the 20th and 21st centuries, there has been a growing effort to rediscover and reassess the contributions of women inventors and innovators. Mary Dixon Kies has been highlighted as one of the earliest women to receive a patent in the United States, leading to renewed interest in her life and work.