The Legend of Louisville - How a Teenager's Invention Changed the Game of Baseball

Pete "The Old Gladiator" Browning stalked to the plate, eyes squinted, bat resting on his shoulder, ready to swing at his pitch. A warm spring breeze graced the field in Louisville and the late spring sun already promised the warmth of summer. It made Browning feel good, but didn't ease the doubts already creeping into his head.

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Internet Resources for Kid Inventors

Surrounded by hundreds of inventions each day, it is no surprise that children have a natural inclination to brainstorm and create. Childrens' minds work overtime, wondering where their favorite toys come from, what they're made out of, and how they work. Numerous resources exist on the Web to help parents and educators facilitate these conversations, as well as provide opportunities for young inventors to showcase their ideas.

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What popular invention was sold to pay off a debt?

Answer: In 1949, Walter Hunt, an auto mechanic from New York, New York, invented the safety pin by twisting a length of wire. Hunt received a patent for his invention on April 10, 1849 and eventually sold the rights to his patent for $400 so he could pay a debt in the amount of $15. Hunt is also credited with inventing an early sewing machine, a new type of fountain pen and a new knife sharpener.

Read more invention trivia from InventHelp®