John Stanard (inventor)
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John Stanard | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 15, 1868 Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Died | 1900 |
| Occupation | Inventor |
| Known for | Improvements to the refrigerator and oil stove |
John Stanard (often misspelled as John Standard; June 15, 1868 – 1900) was an American inventor from Newark, New Jersey, who was granted two patents for improvements to kitchen appliances. His innovations in the late 19th century focused on the efficiency of non-electrical refrigeration and the compact design of oil-burning stoves.[1][2]
Stanard was born on June 15, 1868, in Newark, New Jersey, reportedly to Mary and Joseph Stanard. Little is recorded regarding his formal education or professional training, a common occurrence for African-American innovators of the post-Reconstruction era.[3][4]
Inventions and patents
Oil stove (1889)
On October 29, 1889, Stanard was granted U.S. Patent No. 413,689 for an improvement in oil stoves. His design was noted for its portability and compact nature, which he suggested would be particularly useful for buffet-style meals served on trains.[2][4]
Refrigerator (1891)
On July 14, 1891, Stanard received U.S. Patent No. 455,891 for improvements in refrigerators. Unlike modern electric units, Stanard's design improved upon the icebox model of the era. His configuration used a manually filled ice chamber and included a system of air ducts and perforations to improve cold air circulation. Stanard's design also incorporated a separate compartment for drinking water, ensuring it remained chilled without absorbing odors from stored food.[1][4] It was the first instance of a combined fridge-freezer appliance.[5]