Contribution: Invented the gas furnace
Age: 35 (1885 - 1920)
Mini Bio:
Alice H. Parker’s life is a mystery. We know she lived in Morristown, New Jersey, and attended classes at the Howard University Academy in Washington, D.C. Because of patent records, we also know that, in December 1919, Alice received a patent for a “new and improved heating furnace.” Alice’s design was the first system to use natural gas to heat a home. The most common heating method at the time was to cut wood and burn it in fireplaces or stoves. Alice’s invention led the way to the heating systems used in most homes today. Her invention was unique, because it drew air warmed by gas from a single box and delivered the air through ducts to various parts of the house.
- Alice earned honors and a certificate in 1910 from the Howard University Academy.
- The academy was a high school, connected to Howard University, that taught courses in English, Latin, physics, and other subjects.
- The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce named an award after Alice. It honors New Jerseyans who have made history through their work.
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