You’ll Never Believe What This Indigenous Woman From Minnesota Invented!
🎉 Born in North Dakota and raised in Minnesota, Olivia Poole was a talented inventor who broke barriers for Indigenous women! 🌟 #NorthDakotaProud #IndigenousInnovators #WomenInventors
White Earth Reservation, Minnesota – Have you ever heard of the Jolly Jumper? This beloved baby jumper has been a staple in homes for decades, but did you know that it was invented by an Indigenous woman from North Dakota named Olivia Poole? Her story is one of creativity, perseverance, and breaking barriers.
A North Dakota Native
Olivia Poole was born on April 18, 1889, in Devils Lake, North Dakota. She grew up on the White Earth Reservation in Minnesota, where she was exposed to traditional Native American practices that would later inspire her groundbreaking invention.
From the White Earth Reservation to Inventor
As a young girl on the reservation, Olivia watched how women would strap their babies to cradle boards and hang them from tree branches. The gentle bouncing motion would soothe the babies while the mothers worked in the fields.
Years later, after getting married and having her own children, Olivia drew upon this traditional practice to create her own baby jumper. Using a broom handle and a cloth diaper, she made her first prototype of what would eventually become the Jolly Jumper.
Olivia Poole’s patent for the Jolly Jumper.
Bringing the Jolly Jumper to Life
Olivia’s family recognized the potential of her invention and encouraged her to patent it. In 1957, with the help of her son Joseph, Olivia patented her baby jumper under the name “Jolly Jumper.”
The Jolly Jumper quickly gained popularity among parents who appreciated its ability to safely entertain their babies. Olivia even started her own company, Poole Manufacturing Co., Ltd, to produce and sell her invention.
A Trailblazer for Indigenous Women
As one of the first Indigenous women to patent and profit from an invention, Olivia Poole broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of Indigenous inventors.
Olivia’s Legacy Lives On
Although Olivia passed away in 1975, her legacy continues to inspire. The Jolly Jumper remains a beloved product, with over 200 items now sold under the brand name.
From her humble beginnings in North Dakota to her status as a trailblazing inventor, Olivia Poole’s story reminds us of the power of innovation and the importance of celebrating the contributions of Indigenous women.
🗣 Are you familiar with Olivia Poole? Have a Midwestern hero from history we should profile? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
