Celebrating Black Disability History

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:16:28 -0500

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner was a groundbreaking Black American inventor who dedicated her life to creating tools that made everyday tasks easier and more dignified. She was born in 1912 in Monroe, North Carolina, into a family of inventors, and began designing solutions to problems at a very young age.

After moving to Washington, D.C. at age 12, Mary regularly visited the U.S. Patent Office to check whether her ideas already existed. Most of them did not. Her creativity and determination led her to file five patents, more than any other African American woman in U.S. history.

In 1956, Mary patented an elastic sanitary belt that securely held menstrual pads in place. At a time when most products were uncomfortable and unreliable, her design improved comfort, mobility, and protection. She later improved the design with a moisture proof pocket to prevent leaks.

Although companies showed interest in her invention, they withdrew support after learning she was Black. Because of racism, her patent expired, and manufacturers profited from her idea while she received no financial benefit.

Mary continued inventing despite these barriers. Inspired by her sister who had multiple sclerosis, she designed a walker attachment with a tray and storage. She also created accessible bathroom tools, including a wall-mounted back scrubber and a toilet paper holder designed to help people with arthritis and vision loss.

Throughout her life, Mary focused on solving real problems for real people. She never became wealthy from her work, but her inventions helped shape modern menstrual products and accessibility tools used today.

Sources

Honoring Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner, the Brilliant Mind Behind Menstrual Pads Belts | Saba

The Forgotten Black Woman Inventor Who Revolutionized Menstrual Pads

Mary Beatrice Kenner: The Inventor Who Changed Women's Lives | History Hit

Happy Birthday, Mary Kenner - Science Museum Group Blog