Thomas L. Jennings

First African-American patent holder who revolutionized fabric care while funding abolitionist movements

Thomas L. Jennings (1791-1859) [3] made history in 1821 when he received U.S. patent #3306x for 'Dry Scouring' - the foundation of modern dry cleaning. This achievement was unprecedented for several reasons:

• First recorded African-American patent holder
• Developed chemical process preceding synthetic detergents
• Used earnings to fund Underground Railroad activities

Jennings' innovation emerged from his dual career as tailor and activist. His environmentally-conscious cleaning method preserved delicate fabrics while avoiding water damage, creating new standards in garment maintenance.

The entrepreneur allocated significant profits to:

• Purchase family members' freedom from slavery
• Fund New York's first African-American newspaper (Freedom's Journal)
• Support legal challenges against segregation laws