William Henry Cling facts for kids

William Henry Cling (October 1866 – February 25, 1937) was an American inventor who lived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He was known for creating and improving many different things. These included items related to apparel and clever mechanical devices.

William Henry Cling was born in Charleston, South Carolina. This was right after the U.S. Civil War. His parents, Edward Moulton Cling and Elizabeth Ann Richardson, were formerly enslaved people. Even though he worked as a barber, his inventions were not about cutting hair!

In 1885, he married Sarah Elizabeth Lee, who was also called "Lulu." They had six children together: Julia, Ethel, Lela, Edward, Laura, and Matilda. Sadly, Lulu passed away in 1902. William Henry Cling worked his whole life. He passed away in 1937 when he was 72 years old.

Amazing Inventions by William Cling

William Henry Cling was a very creative person. He received patents for several interesting inventions. Here are some of his most notable creations:

Counting People (1896)

In 1896, William Cling invented a "passenger register." This was a mechanical device that helped count how many people were at places like theaters or big fairs. It made it easier to keep track of visitors!

Train Safety Device (1905)

Cling also invented a special device for trains in 1905. Its purpose was to prevent trains from crashing into each other. If two trains were on the same track, this device could help apply the emergency brake. This was a very important invention for railway safety!

Better Coat-Stays (1906)

He also made an "improvement in coat-stays" in 1906. Coat-stays are parts of clothing that help keep coats or other garments in shape. Cling found a way to make them even better.

Improved Shoelaces (1906)

Have you ever wished your shoelaces were easier to tie? In 1906, William Cling designed a new kind of shoelace. His shoelaces had wires inside them. You could twist these wires together to tie your shoes!

Folding Beds (1907)

Cling also thought about people who were sick or injured and had to stay in bed. In 1907, he invented beds that could fold into an upright position. This made it more comfortable for people who needed to sit up while still in bed.