George Peake (inventor) facts for kids

George Peake (born 1722 – died 1827) was an amazing African American inventor. He created a special hand mill used for grinding grain.

Life Story of George Peake

George Peake was born in Maryland in 1722. He lived in Pennsylvania for some time. Later, in 1809, he moved to an area that is now Cleveland, Ohio. Peake bought a farm on the edge of this new settlement. He might have been the very first African American person to live in Cleveland. Reports say he even fought in the French and Indian War.

Peake married a woman from Maryland. They had four sons. Two of his sons came with him to Cleveland. The other two joined them later. One of his sons, Joseph Peake, became a well-known farmer in Cleveland.

Peake's Clever Inventions

George Peake is famous for inventing a hand mill. This machine was used to grind grain and corn. Before his invention, people often used a tool called a mortar and pestle. Peake's hand mill was much easier to use than the old method. It made grinding grain simpler and faster for everyone.