Hubbry Logo
Discover Hubs
Create Hub
search buttonadd
Sign in
Miriam Benjamin
Miriam Benjamin
Comunity Hub
IntroIntro
starTalks
arrow-down
MediaMedia
arrow-down
SavesSaves
ChronicleChronicle
arrow-down
TimelinesTimelines
arrow-down
ArticlesArticles
starMore
arrow-down
addSign in
add
Sign in
Talks
generalgeneral
Pages talks
arrow-right

Media Collections

Inventor, Educator, Patent Attorney

From Wikipedia

Collect and organize photos and videos into themed media collections.

Main milestones

Miriam Elizabeth Benjamin was an African-American inventor and teacher who secured a place in history through her innovative invention, the Gong and Signal Chair for Hotels. Her invention not only improved communication systems but also represents a significant achievement for women and African-Americans in a time of considerable social and racial barriers.
Birth in Charleston, South Carolina
September 16, 1861
Miriam Elizabeth Benjamin was born in Charleston, South Carolina, just before the start of the American Civil War. Her early life was undoubtedly shaped by the tumultuous events of the era and the challenges faced by African Americans in the post-Civil War South.
Education in Massachusetts
Early Education
Miriam's family moved North to Massachusetts to ensure their children receive better educational opportunities. Miriam was able to get an education that would eventually lead her to teaching and later on invent.
Teaching in Washington D.C.
1880s
Miriam Benjamin moved to Washington D.C. and began her career as a schoolteacher within the segregated school system. This experience provided her with insight into the needs and challenges within public service environments.
Patent Granted for Gong and Signal Chair
July 17, 1888
This marks a pivotal moment in Miriam Benjamin's life. She received U.S. Patent No. 386,288 for her "Gong and Signal Chair for Hotels." This innovative chair featured an integrated signaling system allowing occupants to discreetly summon a hotel waiter or attendant. This patent made her one of the first African-American women to receive a patent.
Use in the House of Representatives
Post-Patent
Benjamin's invention was notably adopted by the United States House of Representatives. The incorporation of her Gong and Signal Chair within such a prominent institution underscored the practical value and impact of her design.
Civil Service Career
Later Life
Later in life, Miriam Benjamin pursued a career in civil service, further contributing to public service and demonstrating her commitment to community.
Death
1947
Miriam Elizabeth Benjamin passed away in 1947. Her legacy lives on through her innovative invention and her contribution to breaking down barriers for women and African Americans in STEM fields. Her Gong and Signal Chair remains a testament to her ingenuity and resourcefulness.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Education TimelineEarly Life and Education TimelineGeographic Timeline: Locations and MovementsGeographic Timeline: Locations and MovementsInvention and Patent Timeline: The Gong and Signal ChairInvention and Patent Timeline: The Gong and Signal ChairPersonal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and RelationshipsProfessional Life and CareerProfessional Life and CareerTimeline of Challenges and Obstacles FacedTimeline of Challenges and Obstacles FacedTimeline of Recognition and LegacyTimeline of Recognition and Legacy