Sarah Mather was born in Brooklyn, New York. Details about her family and early life are scarce, but her later accomplishments suggest an inquisitive mind and a strong inclination towards innovation. The burgeoning industrial landscape of New York City at the time likely influenced her interest in technology and invention.

While specific details are unknown, it's clear that Sarah Mather developed a keen interest in maritime technology during this period. Living in a major port city like Brooklyn, she would have been exposed to the challenges and opportunities related to shipping, navigation, and underwater activities, likely sparking her inventive spirit.

Sarah Mather received a patent for her 'Submarine Telescope and Lamp.' This groundbreaking invention allowed for the examination of the seabed, providing valuable assistance to sailors navigating in murky waters or locating sunken objects. The device improved visibility below the water's surface, utilizing a lamp to penetrate the darkness and a viewing apparatus to bring images to the observer. This invention had significant implications for maritime navigation and salvage operations.

Although concrete evidence of widespread use is limited, it is reasonable to assume Mather attempted to market and refine her invention during this period. The underwater telescope would have been valuable for commercial shipping, naval operations, and salvage efforts, and it's plausible she sought to improve its design and promote its adoption by relevant industries. The rise of maritime commerce during this era underscored the need for tools that could improve underwater visibility, making Mather's invention particularly relevant.

Sarah Mather secured a second patent for an 'Improvement in Submarine Telescopes'. This patent suggests she continued working on her invention, seeking to enhance its functionality or address limitations in the original design. Details of the specific improvements are scarce in readily available records, but this patent underscores her commitment to innovation and her dedication to improving maritime technology.

Sarah Mather passed away on June 21, 1868. Her legacy rests primarily on her two patents for the underwater telescope. While details of her life remain limited, her invention stands as a testament to her ingenuity and her contribution to the advancement of maritime technology during a period of rapid industrial growth.