Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner

Life-Changing Inventor

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner working on her most important invention: the sanitary belt.

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner was an extraordinary inventor who devised several products that enhanced the quality of life for many people. Despite facing racial discrimination throughout her life, she persevered and obtained five patents for her inventions. Her patented creations included 

• a sanitary belt with a moisture-resistant pocket that improved women’s hygiene, 

• an attachment for a walker or wheelchair that provided a convenient tray and a pocket for personal items, 

• a toilet paper holder that ensured the loose end was always accessible, and 

• a mounted back washer and massager that offered comfort and relaxation.

A Family of Creative Thinkers

Mary Kenner inherited a legacy of creative thinking from her family. She was born on May 7, 1912 in Monroe, North Carolina. Her father, Sidney Nathaniel Davidson, patented a clothing presser in 1914 that was compact enough to fit inside a suitcase. Her maternal grandfather, Robert Phromeberger, patented two inventions: a tricolor light signal for trains and a wheeled stretcher for ambulances. 

Kenner’s sister, Mildred Davidson Austin Smith, also patented a board game in 1980.

Mary Kenner was a clever and inventive girl who hated to hear the door squeak when her mother left for work early in the morning. She decided to create a device that would oil the hinge and make it silent.

Mary Kenner’s Inventive Childhood

Kenner demonstrated her inventive talent and problem-solving skills from a young age. When she was six years old, she tried to invent a self-oiling door hinge to stop the squeaking noise a door made each morning her mother went to work. She also invented a sponge attachment for umbrellas to absorb the rainwater and prevent it from dripping on the floor. She even invented a portable ashtray that could attach to a cigarette pack. 

Kenner had a passion for innovation and creativity. She enjoyed visiting the United States Patent and Trademark Office in Washington, DC, where her family moved in 1924 when she was 12. She often checked if her inventions were already patented by someone else. To her delight, she usually found out that her ideas were original and unique. Kenner graduated from Dunbar High School in 1931. 

She enrolled at Howard University but had to drop out due to financial difficulties. She worked at various jobs to support herself and became a federal worker during World War II. After the war, she worked as a florist and continued to invent in her spare time. In 1951, she married James “Jabbo” Kenner, and adopted one of their five foster children, Woodrow.

Mary Kenner’s First Patent: The Adjustable Sanitary Belt

Kenner obtained her first patent in 1957 for the adjustable sanitary belt, a device that secured sanitary napkins in place. This was before the advent of sticky maxi pads and tampons. In the early 1900s, menstruation was a taboo subject. Women often resorted to homemade sanitary products from cloth or other materials. Commercial products, such as Kotex pads, were only used occasionally for school or work. 

Women were dissatisfied with the size, thickness, and stiffness of Kotex pads. Kenner’s belt was a solution to those issues. It was one of her most remarkable inventions. She designed it to prevent menstrual blood from staining clothing. It was effective at keeping the sanitary napkins in place and was easy to use. 

Kenner conceived the idea in the 1920s, but could not afford to patent it until about three decades later. The Sonn-Nap-Pack Company initially expressed interest in her invention, but they rejected it after discovering she was African American. Kenner encountered racial discrimination throughout her career, but she did not let it deter her from pursuing her dreams.

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner: A Legacy of Innovation and Persistence

Mary Kenner persevered in inventing despite the obstacles. In 1976, after her sister was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Kenner patented a walker with a tray and pocket to carry things. In the 1980s, Kenner invented a toilet paper dispenser with paper that was always easy to reach. She also devised a back washer that could attach to a shower wall. 

Kenner passed away on January 13, 2006, in Washington, D.C., at the age of 93. She did not receive any awards, fame, or wealth during her lifetime. But Kenner’s inventions had a lasting impact on everyday life. 

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner was an inspiring woman who used her creativity and intelligence to solve problems and improve life for many. She is one of the most prolific African American women inventors in history. She deserves our recognition and appreciation for her worthy achievements.

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