CAREER
Getting to the bottom of the issue
Margaret E. Knight’s journey as an inventor was marked by her pioneering work in the development of paper bag manufacturing technology, particularly her invention of the flat-bottomed paper bag machine.
In 1867, Knight relocated to Springfield, Massachusetts, where she joined the Columbia Paper Bag Company. It was during her time there that she identified shortcomings in the envelope-shaped paper bags being produced—weakness, narrowness, and inability to stand upright—which made them ill-suited for carrying bulkier items like groceries and hardware goods.
Despite flat-bottomed paper bags already being in use in Britain and semi-mechanized techniques existing for their production, Knight sought to fully automate the process. In 1868, she conceived a machine capable of cutting, folding, and gluing paper to create flat-bottomed paper bags, significantly increasing production efficiency.
Knight’s journey to patent her invention faced significant obstacles. Charles Annan, a machinist, attempted to patent her design first after allegedly stealing it from the machine shop where Knight’s iron model was being built. Annan argued that Knight, as a woman, couldn’t possibly comprehend the complexities of the machine or create a working model.
Condecorated by
the Queen
Knight fought back against these claims, presenting extensive evidence including meticulous blueprints, journals, models, and witness testimonies to prove her authorship and the functionality of her invention. After a grueling legal battle, Knight emerged victorious, receiving her patent in 1871.
In recognition of her groundbreaking invention, Knight was decorated by Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom in 1871. With a business partner in Massachusetts, she established the Eastern Paper Bag Company in Hartford, Connecticut. Despite her disinterest in managing the business directly, Knight received royalties from the company, allowing her to focus on her inventing career.
Throughout her life, Knight continued to innovate and acquire patents, securing further recognition for her contributions to technology and industry.
Her legacy as a pioneering inventor and advocate for women in STEM endures, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions and overcome barriers in the pursuit of innovation.
