Invention of Paper Clip

WHO INVENTED PAPER CLIP

When  Johann  Vaaler  patented  his in  1901,  there already  were  similar  designs on  the books.  William Middlebrook  of Waterbury, Connecticut patented his design in 1899. Cornelius  Brosnan  of  Springfield, Massachusetts patented his Konaclip in 1900.

So, who was first to invent the paper clip?

Well,  it  is  thought  to  be  Johann  Vaaler.  Drawings  of  his design  date  to  early  1899, but  since Norway  had  no patent  law  at  the  time  he  had  to  seek  patent  rights  in Germany and the US in the following years.

Johann  Vaaler  was  born  on  15  March  1866  in  Aurskog, Norway.  Known  as  an innovator  in  his youth,  he graduated in electronics, science  and mathematics. He was employed by the owner of an invention office when he invented the paper clip in 1899.

Several designs followed the original. Only a few remain, such  as  the  Ideal,  Non-Skid,  Owl and  Gem. The  first double-oval  clip,  the  Gem, w as  launched  in  early-1900 by  Gem Manufacturing  Ltd  of England.  The  paper  clip remains as one of the most-used items of all time.

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