Day 2. Garrett Morgan The Traffic Light Pioneer.

Today we honor Garrett Morgan (March 4, 1877 – July 27, 1963), an inventor whose work continues to save lives every day. Known for his groundbreaking creations like the traffic light and the gas mask, Morgan’s ingenuity brought safety and innovation to everyday life.

The Life of Garrett Morgan
Born in Claysville, Kentucky, to formerly enslaved parents, Garrett Morgan grew up with limited access to formal education. Despite this, his natural curiosity and mechanical aptitude propelled him forward. Morgan began his career as a handyman and sewing machine repairman, but his innovative spirit soon led him to explore larger problems and devise groundbreaking solutions.

Morgan’s legacy is defined by his unyielding drive to improve public safety and his commitment to ensuring his inventions served the greater good.

Key Inventions and Contributions

• The Traffic Light
  • In 1923, Morgan patented the three-position traffic light. Unlike earlier two-light systems, his design introduced the “warning” position—the precursor to the modern yellow light. This innovation significantly reduced accidents by giving drivers time to prepare to stop or proceed with caution. His invention was later purchased by General Electric and implemented across the U.S., revolutionizing road safety.
• The Gas Mask
  • In 1914, Morgan invented the “Safety Hood,” a device designed to protect firefighters and rescue workers from smoke and toxic fumes. The gas mask gained national attention during the Cleveland Tunnel Disaster of 1916, when Morgan personally used it to save lives during a tragic gas explosion.

Though widely praised, Morgan faced racial discrimination that often overshadowed his achievements. Many white customers refused to buy his products once they learned he was Black, leading him to sell through intermediaries. Despite these challenges, Morgan’s inventions became staples in public safety.

Stories of Innovation and Bravery
The Cleveland Tunnel Disaster stands out as a testament to Garrett Morgan’s courage. When a natural gas explosion trapped workers in a waterworks tunnel, Morgan and his brother donned his gas masks and descended into the toxic fumes to rescue survivors. Their bravery saved many lives, earning Morgan a medal from the city of Cleveland.

Still, the racism of the time was glaring: media coverage often downplayed Morgan’s involvement, and recognition came slowly. Morgan persisted, driven by his belief in the power of innovation to save lives.

In His Own Words
One of Garrett Morgan’s most famous quotes reflects his philosophy of invention: “If you can be the best, then why not try to be the best?”

Morgan lived by this ethos, striving to solve real-world problems and refusing to let prejudice stifle his contributions to society.

Learn More and Celebrate Garrett Morgan
To explore Garrett Morgan’s life and legacy further, check out these resources:

• Book: “Garrett Morgan: Inventor of the Traffic Light and Gas Mask,” by Megan Reid
• Documentary: PBS’s “The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross” includes segments on Garrett Morgan
• Web Resources: National Inventors Hall of Fame: Garrett Morgan Profile

Reflection and Call to Action
Garrett Morgan’s life exemplifies the power of perseverance and the impact of ingenuity. His story invites us to reflect:

• How can we support the next generation of inventors, particularly those from underrepresented communities?
• What everyday challenges can we address with creativity and commitment, following Morgan’s example?

As you navigate intersections today, pause to appreciate the legacy of Garrett Morgan, whose traffic light brought order and safety to the chaos of early roads. May his courage, determination, and brilliance inspire us all to find innovative ways to care for one another.

Tomorrow, we’ll celebrate an innovator in ophthalmology who revolutionized the treatments for cataract patients.

Learn more: The Federal Highway Administration shares Garret Morgan’s legacy as an inventor in their profile, including trade office graphics and pictures of his gas mask and traffic light.

Join us this month as we honor 28 luminaries and celebrate the enduring legacy of Black excellence. Together, we can build a more just and compassionate world. By embracing the richness of Black history and culture, we can strengthen our community and create a more vibrant and equitable future for all.

---

#UU #UUA #CelebrateDiversity #28DaysofBlackExcellence #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackLivesMatter #GeneralElectric #FireFighter #ClevelandTunnel