Samuel R. Scottron’s 1886 patent (#349,525) for a “Pole Tip” was an ingenious, yet simple, invention designed for the curtain rods and window shades of the time. The patent focused on a new way to attach the decorative tips to the ends of the rods, making it easier for people to install and change them.
Details of the Patent
Scottron’s invention addressed a common frustration with household hardware. Earlier pole tips were often difficult to secure, frequently fell off, or were permanently attached.
- The Invention: The invention was a small, threaded socket or tip that could be screwed directly into the end of a curtain pole.
- Key Features: The unique aspect was the method of attachment. It was designed with a pointed or tapered screw on its base, which could be twisted into the wood of the pole. This provided a much more secure and stable connection than previous methods, like using glue or simple friction.
- Problem Solved: This design allowed for the quick and easy attachment and removal of decorative pole tips, giving homeowners more flexibility in their interior design without the risk of the tips falling off.
Significance of the Invention and Inventor
Samuel R. Scottron was a prolific African-American inventor, businessman, and community leader from Brooklyn, New York. His life and work are a testament to his versatility and perseverance in the face of significant racial barriers.
- Practical Innovation: The “Pole Tip” is a great example of an inventor identifying a small, everyday problem and creating a simple, effective solution. His invention contributed to the growing market for household goods and decorative hardware in the late 19th century.
- Broader Legacy: Scottron’s legacy goes far beyond this single patent. He was a successful businessman who owned and operated his own barber shop and later a business that produced and sold his patented inventions. He also invented and patented a mirror support for barbershops (#337,489), an adjustable curtain rod (#364,098), and a curtain rod support (#393,313).
- A Champion for Civil Rights: Beyond his inventions, Scottron was a well-respected figure in the African-American community. He was a member of the American Negro Academy, an organization dedicated to promoting Black intellectual life, and was a strong advocate for civil rights. His life’s work, from his practical inventions to his community leadership, demonstrates the remarkable talent and resilience of African-American innovators.
