Mary Dixon Kies, American inventor (d. 1837)

Mary Dixon Kies, born on March 21, 1752, and living until 1837, stands as a notable figure in early American innovation. While historical records offer limited insight into her early life, her enduring legacy stems from a remarkable achievement in a nascent United States. She was an **American inventor** who carved out a unique place in history, embodying the spirit of ingenuity present in the young nation.

A Groundbreaking Invention and Presidential Seal

On a significant day, May 5, 1809, Kies’s ingenuity received official recognition when President James Madison himself signed her patent. Her innovation was a novel **technique of weaving straw with silk and thread to make hats**. This wasn't merely a craft; it was a practical and commercially valuable advancement in the textile and fashion industry of the time. Imagine the bustling markets and the demand for stylish, durable hats, and you can appreciate the impact of such an invention. This patent underscored her contribution to manufacturing and design, highlighting a resourceful approach to combining materials for a superior product.

The Enduring Debate: America's First Female Patent Holder?

Mary Dixon Kies is often celebrated in textbooks and historical accounts as the **first woman to receive a US Patent**. This claim, however, is part of a fascinating historical debate that offers a deeper look into the challenges and recognition of women inventors in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Some sources indeed credit Kies with this pioneering status due to the specific formal process and documentation of her patent. Yet, other historians point to earlier claims, such as Hannah Slater, who is often cited with a patent in 1793 for cotton thread manufacturing, or Hazel Irwin, recognized by some in 1808. This discussion doesn't diminish Kies's achievement but rather illuminates the complex record-keeping of the era and the societal context in which women pursued innovation. Regardless of whether she was definitively the "first," Kies undeniably stands as a crucial pioneer, demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit and technical skill at a time when such public recognition for women was rare. Her **US Patent** was a concrete testament to her inventiveness and an important milestone for women in **early American history** of innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mary Dixon Kies

Who was Mary Dixon Kies?
Mary Dixon Kies (1752–1837) was an **American inventor** renowned for her pioneering work in textile manufacturing. She is historically recognized for receiving one of the earliest, and possibly the very first, **US Patent** granted to a woman.
What did Mary Dixon Kies invent?
Kies developed and patented a specialized **straw weaving technique** that combined straw with **silk and thread** to create hats. This innovation offered a new method for producing more durable and aesthetically pleasing headwear.
When did she receive her patent?
Her patent was officially signed by **President James Madison** on May 5, 1809, marking a significant moment in the history of American intellectual property and women's contributions to it.
Was Mary Dixon Kies the first woman to receive a US Patent?
While Mary Dixon Kies is widely cited as the first woman to hold a **US Patent**, historical scholarship presents differing views. Other contenders for this title include Hannah Slater (1793) and Hazel Irwin (1808). Regardless of the definitive "first," Kies's patent remains a pivotal and well-documented achievement for women in **American history** of invention.