Once Upon A Time In Black History

Joseph Winters: Climbing the Ladder of Innovation

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we explore the remarkable story of Joseph Richard Winters, the inventor whose fire escape innovations saved countless lives. From his early days in Virginia to his groundbreaking patents in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Winters' legacy extends beyond firefighting—his work with the Underground Railroad and his ventures in politics paint a picture of a true trailblazer. Tune in as we uncover the man behind the ladder and the lasting impact of his contributions to safety and history.

Defying Expectations: The Trailblazing Journey of Jane Matilda Bolin

Discover the inspiring story of Jane Matilda Bolin, the first Black woman judge in the U.S. Born in 1908, Jane overcame racial discrimination and societal barriers to graduate from Yale Law School and serve 40 years as a family court judge. A fierce advocate for children’s rights and racial justice, her legacy reshaped the legal system and paved the way for future generations. Join us as we celebrate her trailblazing life and enduring impact

Mother Hale: The Angel of Harlem

A selfless pioneer in childcare and community support, Clara opened her Harlem home to infants born into the most challenging circumstances—children of mothers battling addiction and, later, those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Discover how her love for children and unwavering dedication gave rise to Hale House, a haven that changed the lives of thousands. Clara’s story is a testament to the untapped potential of individuals transforming their communities through compassion and resilience.

Jan Ernst Matzeliger

Jan Ernst Matzeliger was a biracial Surinamese-American inventor whose automated lasting machine brought significant change to the manufacturing of shoes.

George Franklin Grant

In this episode, discover the fascinating journey of Dr. George Franklin Grant, a trailblazing dentist, Harvard faculty member, and inventor of the first wooden golf tee. Learn how his passion for innovation and golf left a lasting mark on the sport. 

George Crum, the man who invented the potato chip...

On today's episode of Once upon A Time In Black History we learn about George Crum, the man who invented the potato chip!

Marie Van Brittan Brown

Marie Van Brittan Brown was an American nurse and innovator. In 1966, she invented a video home security system along with her husband Albert Brown, an electronics technician.

Elijah, The Real McCoy

Elijah McCoy (May 2, 1844–October 10, 1929) was a Black American inventor who received more than 50 patents for his inventions during his lifetime. His most famous invention was a cup that feeds lubricating oil to machine bearings through a small tube. Machinists and engineers who wanted genuine McCoy lubricators might have used the expression "the real McCoy"—a term meaning "the real deal" or "the genuine article."

Strings of Legacy: The Trailblazing Journey of Joseph Douglass

Join host Tamara Shiloh as she takes you on an inspiring journey into the life and legacy of Joseph Henry Douglass, a groundbreaking African-American concert violinist and grandson of Frederick Douglass.
This episode explores Douglass's rise to prominence, from his early training at the New England Conservatory to his performances at major events like the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Learn about his historic contributions to American music, his trailblazing career as the first Black violinist to tour nationally and internationally, and his dedication to education as a professor at Howard University.
Discover the broader context of Black instrumentalists' influence on American culture and hear about other virtuoso violinists of African descent, including George Augustus Polgreen Bridgetower and contemporary artist Tai Murray.
Dive into the untold stories of Black excellence in music. Tune in to celebrate this rich legacy and find resources to continue your learning journey at multiculturalbookstore.com.

Carter G. Woodson: The Father of Black History

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we delve into the remarkable life and legacy of Carter G. Woodson, the man celebrated as the "Father of Black History." Born to formerly enslaved parents in 1875, Carter overcame incredible odds to become a Harvard-educated historian and a relentless advocate for African-American history and culture. Learn how his dedication gave rise to Negro History Week, which evolved into today's Black History Month, and discover how his work reshaped America's understanding of its past.
Join us as we explore Carter's inspiring journey of perseverance, education, and justice—a story that continues to inspire and empower generations.