Lewis Latimer

Early Life

Lewis H. Latimer was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts on September 9, 1848. He lived in Flushing Queens, New York. In 1864, he joined the U.S Navy. When he joined the U.S Navy, he was 16 years old.

Family Life

His siblings are William, George, and Margaret Latimer. Lewis' parents were Rebecca and George Latimer. In 1873, he married Mary Wilson.  

Lewis Latimer had no education. He was an expert draftsman and an inventor. He created the railroad car bathroom, the telephone, and the light bulb.

The impact he had on the field has really helped us throughout history. Imagine a life without light bulbs, sitting in darkness all the time. Despite the racial and economic challenges he faced, he still was a pioneer in technology. He made important contributions to our everyday lives back then and now.

• Lewis H. Latimer was a self-taught draftsman.

• He also was an inventor who created the light bulb and the telephone. 

• He won some awards but they were after his death; he is a part of the National Inventor Hall of Fame.

• He was one of the people who escaped slavery in his family.

• He also made $20.00 a week.

• He also worked closely with Thomas Edison.

• Open-minded: He was open-minded which means he was willing to accept suggestions and options.

• Brave: He was also brave because he was treated badly because of his skin color and when he did something spectacular the white people did not like that and were angry at him but he still kept trying. He also chose to go to the Navy.

• Genial: He was genial which means he was very friendly.

• Versatile: He also had versatility which means he had many different skills and talents.