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Garrett A. Morgan. Justin Toth 2/25/2010. Early Years. Born March 4, 1877 in Paris Kentucky Was the son of former slaves Was the 7 th of 11 children His formal education ended in elementary school. Young Adult Years. Moved to Cincinnati in 1895
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Garrett A. Morgan Justin Toth 2/25/2010
Early Years • Born March 4, 1877 in Paris Kentucky • Was the son of former slaves • Was the 7th of 11 children • His formal education ended in elementary school
Young Adult Years • Moved to Cincinnati in 1895 • His ability to repair machinery lead to many job offers • Started his own sewing machine and repair shop in 1901 • By 1907 his business employed 32 people
Middle Years • Started his own newspaper in Cleveland, Ohio called the “Cleveland Call” • The success from his newspaper business allowed him to buy a car • Was determined to make street intersections safer
Garrett A. Morgan’s Traffic Signal • Traffic signal patented – November 20, 1923 (1st ever) • Traffic signal description • T-shaped pole with arms • Had no lights • Had three signs (red “stop,” green “go,” & red “stop” in all directions • Allowed pedestrian to cross the street • Controlled by an electric clock mechanism • Traffic signal was used all around U.S.A. • Morgan sold device to G.E. for $40,000
Later Years • Developed zig-zag sewing machine equipment • Developed hair dying lotions • Developed de-curling hair combs • Patent No. 2,763,281 in 1956 • Died August 27, 1963