Latimer's first major contribution to science took place when he drew the patent plans for the telephone, making the production of Bell's invention possible. Next, he revolutionized incandescent lighting-by discovering a way to make the filaments in Edison's light bulb more durable-and supervised the installation of electric street lighting in New York City, Philadelphia, Montreal, and London. His keen understanding of the electric light and power industries eventually earned him an important position on Edison's staff. Because achievements by African-Americans were seldom publicized in his day, Latimer never saw his name earn its proper place in history. Yet he refused to let "unnumbered wrongs" break his spirit. Ever determined to make something of his life, Latimer was, as he himself said, "unconquered and unconquerable." Dr. Lewis Latimer died on December 11, 1928. Since his death his home in Flushing, New York, has been moved to a new location in Queens to serve as a museum.
Latimer's first major contribution to science took place when he drew the patent plans for the telephone, making the production of Bell's invention possible. Next, he revolutionized incandescent lighting-by discovering a way to make the filaments in Edison's light bulb more durable-and supervised the installation of electric street lighting in New York City, Philadelphia, Montreal, and London. His keen understanding of the electric light and power industries eventually earned him an important position on Edison's staff. Because achievements by African-Americans were seldom publicized in his day, Latimer never saw his name earn its proper place in history. Yet he refused to let "unnumbered wrongs" break his spirit. Ever determined to make something of his life, Latimer was, as he himself said, "unconquered and unconquerable." Dr. Lewis Latimer died on December 11, 1928. Since his death his home in Flushing, New York, has been moved to a new location in Queens to serve as a museum.
Bio by: Curtis Jackson
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