Bessie Virginia Blount Griffin

Inventor

Birthday November 24, 1914

Birth Sign Sagittarius

Birthplace Virginia

DEATH DATE Dec 30, 2009 (95)

#195,527 Most Popular

About

Writer, inventor and forensic scientist who is best known for her inventions to make life easier for those with disabilities. Notable inventions of hers include an electric self-feeding apparatus for amputees, the emesis basin, and a neck frame for an injured or ill patient that holds a bowl or cup close to their face as a "portable receptacle support."

Before Fame

She graduated from Montclair State University and Panzer College of Physical Education and Hygiene. She was a nurse and physical therapist. 

Trivia

In 1953, she was the first African-American woman to appear on the WCAU Philadelphia television show The Big Idea.

Family Life

Her parents are Mary Blount and William Blount. In 1951, she married Thomas Griffin. They had one son named Philip.

Associated With

As a nurse and physical therapist, she cared for Theodore Miller Edison after World War II.

Bessie Virginia Blount Griffin Is A Member Of