This Black History Month, we celebrate the legacy of Black inventors by exploring their groundbreaking innovations that have transformed the world. Through branded merchandise inspired by their visionary ideas, we honour their contributions and share their remarkable stories.
Alfred L. Cralle Ice Cream Scoop
Alfred L. Cralle (1866–1920) was the creative mind behind the ice cream scoop, a revolutionary invention that changed how we serve ice cream. Before Cralle’s design, people relied on ladles and spoons, which were far from ideal. While working at a Pittsburgh hotel, he developed a purpose-built tool that quickly became a kitchen essential. Despite its widespread adoption, Cralle never profited from his creation.
His invention, however, lives on — not just in kitchens but in the world of promotional marketing. Ice cream scoops have become a popular branded giveaway, offering businesses a fun and practical way to keep their name in customers’ homes. Whether imprinted with a company logo or used in experiential marketing campaigns, this simple tool continues to connect brands with consumers, proving that even everyday objects can have a lasting promotional impact.
Thomas Elkins
Refrigeration
Thomas Elkin (1818–1900) made a lasting impact on the food preservation industry with his innovative work in the late 1800s. Before his invention, perishable goods were kept fresh using large ice blocks, which were often unreliable. Elkin introduced metal cooling coils, a more efficient and cost-effective solution. His design became the foundation for modern refrigeration, changing how we store and preserve food. In 1879, Elkin’s important contribution was acknowledged when he received a U.S. patent for his invention.
Elkin’s innovation not only transformed food storage but also influenced promo in the food and beverage industry. Branded coolers, insulated bags, and refrigeration-based giveaways have become staple promotional items, allowing businesses to align themselves with convenience and freshness. From custom mini-fridges to imprinted ice packs, companies leverage refrigeration-related products to keep their brand top-of-mind while ensuring customers enjoy the benefits of modern cooling technology.
George Franklin Grant
Golf Tee
George Franklin Grant (1846–1910), Harvard’s first African American faculty member, was a trailblazer in dentistry and an avid golfer. While he did not invent dental devices, his passion for golf led him to create an early version of the golf tee using wood and latex resin. Before his invention, golfers relied on unstable sand mounds to position the ball. Grant’s tee provided a consistent and stable solution, transforming the game and leaving a lasting legacy in modern golf.
Branded golf tees are now a popular giveaway item at tournaments, corporate events, and company-sponsored outings. Businesses use customized golf accessories — tees, balls, and divot tools — to engage with their audience and reinforce their brand in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Grant’s simple yet game-changing invention continues to influence both the sport and the promotional industry, proving that even small tools can create lasting brand visibility.
John Lee Love
Portable Pencil Sharpener
John Lee Love (1889–1931) invented the portable pencil sharpener, a simple yet transformative tool that made sharpening pencils easier and more convenient. Prior to his invention, people typically relied on knives, which were less practical and portable. Love’s design provided an affordable and efficient solution, revolutionizing a small but essential part of everyday life. His creation remains a testament to the power of practical innovation.
Branded pencil sharpeners, along with custom pens and notebooks, have become popular promotional items for offices and creative industries. Brand's use these items to keep their name in front of customers reinforcing brand awareness through daily use.
John Thomas White
Lemon Squeezer
John Thomas White (1857–1937) received a U.S. Patent in 1896 for an improved lemon squeezer. His design featured a metal-hinged mechanism with a removable receptacle to efficiently extract and collect lemon juice, separating it from seeds and pulp. White's innovation made it easier to squeeze all of the juice out of a lemon.
His invention not only improved kitchen efficiency but also found a place in promotional marketing. Branded kitchen gadgets, including custom lemon squeezers, measuring spoons, and cutting boards, have become popular giveaways for restaurants, beverage brands, and culinary events.
William B. Purvis
Fountain Pen
William B. Purvis (1838–1914), known for refining the fountain pen, revolutionized writing by improving ink flow and eliminating the need for constant dipping into an inkwell. By incorporating an internal ink reservoir, he created a smoother, more reliable writing experience. His contributions played a crucial role in shaping the development of modern fountain pens, making them more practical and convenient for everyday use.
Branded pens are among the most popular promotional products, offering businesses a cost-effective way to keep their name in customers’ hands. From luxury fountain pens to budget-friendly ballpoints, customized writing instruments remain a staple at trade shows and corporate events.
Lyda Newman
Synthetic Bristle Hairbrush
Lyda D. Newman (1892–1925) was a trailblazing innovator who transformed hair care with her improvements to the hairbrush. Her 1898 design introduced synthetic bristles, making the brush more durable, easier to clean, and better at distributing natural oils for healthier hair.
Newman’s invention not only revolutionized personal grooming but also left a lasting impact on promotional marketing in the beauty industry. Customized hairbrushes, combs, and styling tools are now widely used as promotional items by beauty brands and haircare companies. These branded accessories help businesses connect with consumers by offering practical, everyday tools.
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