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Amazing Facts About Foundational Black Americans
1821 — New York City, New York
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Did you know the first known Black American to receive a U.S. patent did it in 1821—for a process that helped lead to modern dry cleaning?
Thomas L. Jennings was a free Black American inventor, entrepreneur, and clothing professional in New York City.
In 1821, Jennings received a United States patent for a method he called "dry scouring," making him the first known Black American to receive a U.S. patent.
Surviving contemporary reporting described his method as removing dirt and grease from clothing while helping garments retain their original shape and renewed appearance.
Jennings's invention became an important predecessor to modern dry cleaning. The original patent was destroyed in the 1836 Patent Office fire and has never been recovered. Because the patent itself is lost, the exact formula and complete technical process cannot be reconstructed from the surviving record.
Jennings also used proceeds from his invention and business success to support abolitionist activity and Black institutions.
Thomas L. Jennings was born free in New York City around 1791. He became an inventor, entrepreneur, and clothing professional. In 1821 he received a U.S. patent for "dry scouring." His original patent was subsequently lost in the 1836 Patent Office fire. Jennings became active in abolitionist and Black institutional life. He was the father of civil-rights pioneer Elizabeth Jennings Graham.
Wait — There's More
Thomas L. Jennings was the father of Elizabeth Jennings Graham. In 1854, Elizabeth Jennings challenged racial segregation after being forced from a New York streetcar. Her resulting legal case became an important victory against segregated public transportation in New York.
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