Ironically, due to racial discrimination, this fundamental innovation could not be adopted for thirty years.
Her parents played such a pivotal role in motivating her towards creativity and innovation.
Profile
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An artist’s skillful impression of Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner in her heydays. Photo: Molly MakesSource: Instagram
Biography
Born in North Carolina, Mary Keener descended from a lineage of inventors.
Her grandfather set the pace by inventing a light signal for trains.
First, he, in 1914, invented a portable clothing press that could fit in a suitcase.
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Although this discovery earned him little investment return, it was a significant milestone in his innovation quest.
Beyond the press, Sidney Nathaniel Davidson also invented a wheeled stretcher for ambulances and a trains window washer.
Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner education
She completed high school in 1931 and then joined Howard University.
The modern face Howard University. Photo: Howard1867Source: Instagram
Unfortunately, she dropped out due to a lack of fees.
She had four successful flower shops strategically located around Washington DC.
She operated theseshopsfor about 23 years.
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Marriage
Her husband wasfamousheavyweight boxerJames “Jabbo” Kenner, whom she married in 1957.
James died in 1983.
Where did Mary Kenner die?
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Aged 93, Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner cause of death must have been old age complications.
What did Mary Beatrice Kenner invent?
The invention bug bit her at age six when she endeavored to design a self-oiling door hinge.
A modern tissue holder. Photo: Serene_souvenirsnstuffSource: Instagram
However, it wasn’t until she was in her Forties when she succeeded in patenting several inventions.
How did Mary Kenner change the world?
Until Mary’s invention, tampons, though available, were regarded indecent.
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Mostwomengenerally used cloth or rags during menstruation, with quite a number staying indoors.
Therefore, Kenner’s invention presented women with more freedom until maxi pads became accessible in the ’60s.
She has thehighestnumber of patents a Black woman has in the United States to date.
Pictures of Mary Keener and some of her inventions. Photo: ToloniasuttonSource: Instagram
Although she never disclosed her networth, her lifestyle pointed to a woman of fair means.
Apparently, Maya is just as audacious and outgoing as her politician sister.
Hit this link to read the whole story and see her gorgeous Instagram pics.
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She has a Bachelor of Commerce & IT from the University of Nairobi and joined Briefly.co.za in November 2019.
The writer completed a Google News Initiate Course.
you’re free to email her at perisrodah254@gmail.com.
