Walter Christopher Till The Story of an African American Inventor
Walter Christopher Till was an African American inventor born in Missouri in 1869. Born into an era of racism and segregation, Till became an innovator to improve the lives of those around him. As a young man, Till worked on his family’s farm and developed an early interest in mechanics and engineering. After leaving the farm and attending a technical school in St. Louis, Missouri, Till set forth to pursue a career in inventing and engineering.
Upon graduating from technical school, Till received a certificate from the National Institute of Science. From this point he began to develop new products and systems for industrial use. Many of the products that Till developed would influence modern society in many ways. Till’s first invention was an innovative engine for the use of industry. He argued that the engine that he designed would make it more efficient for companies to produce goods in bulk.
The engine was called the “Till Engine” and it was an integral part of the modern industry at the time. The engine also reduced the waste and energy consumption that was used in production. After his success with the “Till Engine”, Till worked on many other inventions and patent applications. He created a chemical evaporator used in the laundering industry, a system of underground pipes for chemical distribution, and propelled cars.
Till’s inventions were also highly beneficial to the health and welfare of people. He patented an improved water heating system as well as a water filtration system that helped improve sanitation. Till also created a type of air filtering system to help improve indoor air quality. Till’s inventions were also beneficial to the environment, as he developed an improved locomotive engine that reduced the amount of smoke and emissions that it produced.
Till and his inventions were so successful that the federal government of the United States honored him with their prestigious John Barry Gold Medal, given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. Despite all his success and honors, Till had to battle many social and economic injustices of the time, including lack of resources and support for African American entrepreneurs like himself. This did not stop him from continuing his work, however. He kept working on his patents and inventions until his death in 1930.
The tale of Walter Christopher Till is a powerful reminder of the accomplishments of African Americans during a time when they were largely thought of as another race who was undeserving of the same rights and opportunities of those around them. Till’s legacy is still remembered today and he serves as an example of the power of inventiveness and dedication. He truly changed the world and gave hope to many of his fellow African Americans that still serve as an inspiration to this day.
