Things That Philadelphia Did First: A History of Innovation and Invention
Philadelphia, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is not only a city of firsts but also a hub of innovation and invention. From everyday items we take for granted to game-changing technologies, Philadelphia has been the birthplace of numerous groundbreaking creations. In this article, we will explore notable inventions that originated in the City of Brotherly Love.
Soda Pop: A Refreshing Twist
In 1807, Philadelphia druggist Townsend Speakman introduced a revolutionary concoction known as Nephite Julep. Seeking to make carbonated water more palatable, Speakman added fruit flavoring to create a libation with supposed health benefits. This early version of soda pop laid the foundation for the beverage industry’s future innovations.
The Ice-Cream Soda: A Sweet Serendipity
At the semicentennial celebration of the Franklin Institute in 1874, Robert M. Green, a local soda fountain proprietor, stumbled upon a delightful accident. When he ran out of cream, he improvised by substituting ice cream from a neighboring vendor, resulting in a delectable combination. This impromptu creation, the ice-cream soda, quickly gained popularity and became a staple of soda fountains across the nation.
The Revolving Door: A Solution to Drafts
In 1888, Philadelphia inventor Theophilus van Kannel patented the first revolving door, aiming to address the issue of drafts in buildings. While the exact motivation behind this invention remains unclear, it is undoubtedly a testament to Philadelphia’s commitment to practicality and efficiency. Today, revolving doors can be found in various public spaces, although many still prefer traditional doors due to claustrophobia or other reasons.
The Lightning Rod: Harnessing Nature’s Power
Benjamin Franklin, one of Philadelphia’s most renowned figures, had a fascination with fire and electricity. In the 1753 edition of Poor Richard’s Almanac, Franklin published instructions for building a lightning rod, a device designed to protect buildings from lightning strikes. This invention revolutionized the field of electrical safety and remains an essential component of modern structural engineering.
The Odometer: Measuring the Miles
During his involvement in establishing the Postal Service in 1763, Benjamin Franklin utilized an odometer to measure the distances between existing post offices. This innovative application of the device allowed for more accurate calculations of travel distances, contributing to the efficiency of mail delivery. Franklin’s contributions to various fields extended beyond the odometer, as he also invented swim fins, bifocals, and even streetlights.
The Toilet Paper Roll: A Sanitary Solution
In 1890, the Scott Paper Company, founded by brothers Irvin and Clarence Scott in Philadelphia, introduced a significant improvement in personal hygiene: the toilet paper roll. By feeding perforated tissue onto rolls, the Scott brothers revolutionized the way people approach bathroom hygiene. Initially hesitant to associate their family name with such a product, the Scott Tissue brand eventually became a global leader in the toilet tissue industry.
Bubble Gum: A Chewy Surprise
In 1928, Walter E. Diemer, an accountant at the Fleer Chewing Gum Company in Philadelphia, stumbled upon a stretchy gum formula while experimenting with different recipes. This accidental discovery led to the birth of “Dubble Bubble,” a brand that remains synonymous with bubble gum. Diemer’s decision to make the gum pink, due to the availability of pink dye, further enhanced the iconic image of bubble gum.
The Pencil With Attached Eraser: A Convenient Combination
While pencils have been in use for centuries, Hymen L. Lipman, a Philadelphia resident, registered the first patent for a pencil with an attached rubber eraser in 1858. This innovative design allowed for easy correction of mistakes, making writing and drawing more efficient. Interestingly, this concept gained popularity primarily in America, as overseas users were less inclined to erase their marks.
The Slinky: A Toy That Defies Gravity
In 1943, Richard Thompson James, a Penn State graduate working at the William Cramp & Sons shipyard in Philadelphia, accidentally knocked over a coil spring, leading to an intriguing observation. Fascinated by the way it “walked” across surfaces, he spent a year perfecting the tension and wire type to create the iconic toy known as the Slinky. Its mesmerizing movements captivated children and adults alike, making it a beloved classic.
Candy Corn: A Halloween Staple
George Renninger of the Wunderle Candy Company, based in Philadelphia during the 1880s, is credited as the first known professional maker of candy corn. Later, the Goelitz Confectionery Company (now the Jelly Belly Company) mass-produced this Halloween staple using sugar, fondant, corn syrup, vanilla flavor, and marshmallow cream. Today, candy corn continues to be a popular treat, available in various colors to suit different occasions.
Monopoly: The Game That Conquered the World
During the Great Depression, Charles Darrow, a heater salesman from Germantown, Philadelphia, created a board game inspired by the Landlord’s Game, patented by Lizzie Magie in 1924. Darrow’s iteration, known as Monopoly, incorporated the street names of Atlantic City, adding a unique twist to the game. After selling his version at Wanamaker’s department store, Darrow’s game caught the attention of Parker Brothers, leading to its widespread production. Today, Monopoly remains one of the most popular board games globally.
The Keely Motor: The Mysterious Hoax
In 1872, John Worrell Keely, a carpenter and mechanic from Philadelphia, claimed to have invented the Keely Motor, a device capable of harnessing “etheric energy.” Despite attracting investors and forming the Keely Motor Company, Keely’s invention was later exposed as a hoax. The motor never functioned without his presence, and his backers eventually withdrew their support. Keely’s story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of skepticism and critical thinking in evaluating scientific claims.
Philadelphia’s legacy of innovation and invention spans across diverse fields, from beverages and toys to personal hygiene and board games. The city’s pioneering spirit, coupled with the ingenuity of its residents, continues to shape the world we live in. As we appreciate the everyday items and technologies that originated in Philadelphia, let us remember the trailblazers who dared to dream and create, leaving an indelible mark on history.