Margaret E. Knight

Margaret E. Knight was an American inventor best known for designing the flat-bottom paper bag machine, a device that transformed the packaging industry. Often called "the female Thomas Edison," she held over 25 patents and made significant contributions to manufacturing.

Early Life and Background

Margaret Eloise Knight was born on February 14, 1838, in York, Maine, USA. She showed a natural talent for mechanical engineering from a young age. As a child, she built kites, sleds, and other mechanical devices that impressed those around her.

After her father passed away, Knight had to start working in textile mills at just 12 years old. This experience exposed her to factory machinery, sparking her interest in inventing.

The Paper Bag Machine Invention

In the 1860s, most paper bags had a flat, envelope-style design, which was weak and impractical for carrying goods.

Knight invented a machine that could:

• Cut, fold, and glue paper into flat-bottom bags.
• Mass-produce these bags efficiently.
• Replace expensive cloth sacks used in stores.

This invention revolutionized the packaging industry, making shopping and carrying goods much easier.

Patent Battle and Victory

When Knight applied for a patent in 1871, a man named Charles Annan tried to steal her idea, claiming that a woman couldn’t invent such a machine.

Knight took him to court, proved her design was original, and won the patent—an extraordinary achievement for a woman in the 19th century.

Other Inventions and Achievements

Knight continued inventing throughout her life and patented devices including:

• A rotary engine
• A shoe-cutting machine
• Improvements to automobile engines

She was one of the first women in history to make a career as an inventor.

Legacy and Recognition

Margaret Knight’s paper bag machine is still the foundation of modern paper bag production. Her contributions to industrial manufacturing paved the way for future female inventors.

Today, she is honored in:

• The National Inventors Hall of Fame.
• Museums showcasing her paper bag machine.
• History books celebrating women in STEM.

Conclusion

Margaret E. Knight’s brilliance and determination changed the world. Her flat-bottom paper bag is something we still use today, proving that one great idea can have a lasting impact on everyday life.