I feel a need to honour the single reliable safety pin which has loyally served me for years by now. I use it to secure my pedometer to my slacks since the widget that came with it broke down within a year. I’ve never had to replace the safety pin. Think about that….
Well, I thunk on it and was moved to find
Walter Hunt, my unsung hero
out more about this humble servant. It was invented in 1849 by American Walter Hunt, (1796-1859) who, because he owed some guy $15, sold the rights to it for $400. (now worth about $13,000.) Others went on to earn a fortune for what seems like a simple pin.
This was a pattern with Hunt, who also invented a rifle that
Singer Sewing Machine
same year, (later used in the Civil War). It also made oodles of dough for someone else. He invented an improved oil lamp, a portable knife sharpener, the sewing machine, better bullets and goodness knows how many other inventions.
The man was a prolific, talented inventor, however without much education or perhaps an ability to garner support for his ideas, he continued selling them for a pittance.
He did, however, finally win an out-of-court settlement in 1858 with the Singer Sewing Machine Co. for $50,000 (well over a million today) for copying his original sewing machine design. Unfortunately, he died of pneumonia soon afterwards and before he was paid. (At least his family did profit this time.)
cloth diapers used when I had babies
Unlike many other inventions, the
Never stuck any of my little ones
safety pin maintains it original design to this day. I used to use them to secure the cloth diapers we had for our babies when I was a young mother. I don’t recall ever sticking one of my treasured little ones with one. Disposable diapers came later.
Think about that too…..
View from Over the Hill 
We often forget about the little things until they break down and affect our lives. Well thought out article. Thanks.
So glad you found it worth reading Ana:
Yes, I get caught up on thoughts like these now and then. Stay well, Muriel
Such a humble and clever invention that has made our lives easier. Thanks for pointing it out. During the Women’s March, I gave out safety pins that marchers could wear to show that they supported gay women and others who might need an ally. I ran out of safety pins before the March even started.
Judy
Wow! How nice that these humble pins were used for something so important Judy: It pleases me to know that. Keep involved always, Love, Muriel
There are so many unsung, amazing people who have contributed to our lives.
Certainly true Susan: But you certainly are one who has contributed much to my life! Love ya, Maughm
You have discovered a forgotten genius of sorts. Do any stores sell safety pins these days, or would you have to order them online?
Gosh, I have no idea Neil: I must have mine for about 50 years. Chuckle. Stay well….
“…maintains its original design…”. I guess you can’t improve on perfection.
I certainly agree with you there. All the best, Muriel
Interesting tidbit. They are also great for removing slivers in your fingers! Following you!
Agree. They’re great for many uses and last forever. Thanks for following me. I’ll follow you too because it is getting more difficult for me. Grateful for all the travelling I ever did! Enjoy.
First time I’ve read someone write on him. Interesting! Someone I know at church who has a lot of kids uses a washable/reusable diaper.
I was fascinated by this gifted but caring man who didn’t want to make sewing machines available at all because — he was concerned about all the seamstresses who would lose their jobs. Imagine…