Year: 1896

Who: John Thomas White

Where: New York City, New York

In 1896, inventor John Thomas White of New York City patented an improved lemon squeezer. His design featured a metal-hinged squeezer with a removable strainer, enhancing the efficiency of extracting juice from lemons. This innovation streamlined the juicing process, making it more convenient for users.

White's contribution was part of a broader trend in the late 19th century, during which over 200 lemon squeezer patents were filed in the United States. These innovations aimed to improve the design and functionality of citrus juicers, reflecting the growing demand for efficient kitchen tools.

Today, lemon squeezers remain essential tools in kitchens worldwide, embodying the ingenuity of inventors like John Thomas White. Their evolution over time highlights the continuous pursuit of convenience and efficiency in everyday tasks.

Sources:

Websites:

• Bellis, M. (n.d.). John Thomas White—Lemon Squeezer. The Inventors. https://theinventors.org/library/inventors/bllemonsqueezer.htm

• Illinois Courts. (2024, February 21). Celebrating Black History Month with Justice Neville. Illinois Courts. https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/News/1328/Celebrating-Black-History-Month-with-Justice-Neville/news-detail/