On May 10, 1887, Dennis W. Shorter, an African-American inventor from Baltimore, Maryland, was granted U.S. Patent No. 363,089 for a feed rack. This invention was designed to improve the way hay, corn fodder, and other feed were stored and dispensed to livestock.
Invention and Patent Details
Shorter’s feed rack was an innovative structure designed to prevent waste and make feeding animals more efficient. The patent describes a rack with a vertically adjustable frame that could be raised or lowered to control the amount of feed available to animals. This design was a significant improvement over traditional feed troughs, which often led to a lot of hay being trampled and spoiled on the ground.
The key features of the invention included:
- Adjustable Frame: The main body of the rack was made of a frame with slats or bars, which could be moved up or down. As animals ate the feed from the bottom, the frame could be lowered, ensuring they had consistent access to the feed without overstuffing the rack.
- Reduced Waste: By keeping the feed elevated and contained, the rack prevented animals from pulling out large quantities and dropping them on the ground. This not only saved money on feed but also kept the feeding area cleaner and more sanitary.
- Durability: The patent’s drawings show a sturdy, wood-based design that could withstand the rigors of farm use.
Societal Impact
Dennis W. Shorter’s feed rack is a great example of an invention that provided a simple, practical solution to an everyday problem in agriculture. For farmers and livestock owners, this invention meant increased efficiency and reduced costs. By preserving feed and keeping the barnyard cleaner, it contributed to a healthier and more productive farming operation. As an African-American inventor, Shorter’s patent is a part of the historical record of Black innovators who made valuable contributions to a wide range of fields, including agriculture, during a period of racial discrimination.
