Kies, Mary Dixon (1752-1837)
Item
Title
Kies, Mary Dixon (1752-1837)
Contributor
Raisch, Elly
birthday
1752-03-21
Birthplace
Killingly, CT
Death Date
1837
Occupation
Inventor
Biographical Text
Mary Dixon Kies was an inventor known for being the first woman in the United States to hold a patent. Born to John and Janet Dixon, Kies grew up in a farming family. As an adult she witnessed the embargo on European imports caused by the Napoleonic Wars, including woven bonnets and hats which were necessary for fieldworkers to protect themselves from the sun. Kies invented a method of weaving straw and silk which allowed for hats to be produced domestically. In 1809 she obtained a patent approved by President James Madison for her weaving technique.
Kies initially married Issac Pike I, and the two had a son, Issac II. After Issac I's passing, she married John Kies, with whom she had a son named Daniel. She passed away in the home of her second son at age 85.
Kies initially married Issac Pike I, and the two had a son, Issac II. After Issac I's passing, she married John Kies, with whom she had a son named Daniel. She passed away in the home of her second son at age 85.