The American Story: Your First Look at America’s Spirit of Invention
We are gearing up for the opening of The American Story at the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. this fall.
We’re offering a "virtual" first look in the lead up to this exciting new exhibition. Each week, we will take you through the various galleries, showcasing original records that will be featured. This week, we’re diving into America’s Spirit of Invention. We are grateful to P&G for making this gallery possible.
Patent and trademark records at the National Archives reveal America’s technological advancements over time.
The National Archives holds millions of records from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. A person who creates a new product or process, or who improves on something already in existence, can apply for a utility, design, or plant patent. Their invention becomes public record, and U.S. law protects it from being used by others without the patent-holder’s permission for a period of time.
Rendering of America's Spirit of Invention
The U.S. Patent Office is one of the nation’s oldest federal agencies—and that’s why its historic records are preserved by the National Archives. Formally established in 1790, the first Patent Act was signed by President George Washington.
Many inventions represent the work of more than one person. Whether performed by an individual or by a team, the effort of inventing reflects the spirit of making things work better for the greater good. Many patents on display like the Edison light bulb, Wright flyer, and microchip, represent “groundbreaking” achievements that have shaped our world today.
The next section of the gallery looks at “patently amazing” examples, from a Yoda figurine to the Zamboni, named after its inventor. Whimsy, practicality, vision, and skill all have a place in the world of innovation. Some inventors and their patents are famous for their success, while other inventions are curiosities that make us wonder. These patent drawings serve as markers in time, illuminating what inventors found compelling enough to pursue.
Patent drawings show us the thought behind an inventor’s process and design. Think about the things you use in your home. Who asked a question that resulted in the design of a stapler, bicycle, or screwdriver? How have these items changed in form and function? Explore some of these patents for items we use in everyday life in this next section entitled Everyday Things.
Fundamental discoveries in science, technology, and industry have led to thousands of new patents, which are the focus of the next section. Whether building on someone else’s invention or discovering something new, innovation and discovery are at the heart of the American spirit. From the fields that grow our food to the technology that improves our lives, these patents illustrate a wide range of scientific inquiry and creativity.
Finally, toys, games, and sports can take us to other worlds—providing comfort, creativity, exercise, education, and amusement for children and adults alike. Thousands of toys and games have been invented for play, so Patents at Play showcases some of these iconic inventions.
