Newman, Lyda D., 1885?-

Lyda D. Newman was a patented African American inventor and involved activist for women's suffrage. She is known for the invention of a durable hair brush.[1]

Early Life and General Background
Newman was born approximately between 1865 and 1885 in Ohio,[1] but there is no information regarding her exact dates of birth or death.[2]

She spent the majority of her life living and working in Manhattan, New York City, specifically in the neighborhood San Juan Hill.[2] Records indicate that she may have been of mixed race as she was cited interchangeably recording her race as mulatto and black on various papers.[2] Throughout her life, Newman’s primary occupation was hair care as she listed “hair specialist” or “hairdresser” in various New York City Directories and US Government Federal and New York City censuses.[2][3][4][5]

In addition to her work in New York City, Newman appears to have worked with hair in Newport, Rhode Island, during the Summer season.

Patent and Invention
In the late 1800s, Newman invented a hairbrush that could be taken apart easily for cleaning because it contained a compartment at the bottom that could be removed from the back and be cleaned.[7][8][9] The U.S. Patent 614,335[10] was filed on July 11, 1898 and granted on November 15, 1898. The hairbrush she invented is described in her patent as "simple and durable in construction" and being "very effective when in use". [10] See gallery for diagram of the hairbrush.
Activism
As well as creating her patented invention, Newman was an active community member and organizer for women's suffrage throughout the late 19th century and early 20th century. As a suffragist, she spent her time canvasing neighborhoods in New York City and even hosted street meetings to educate passing people. [3] To help the New York Woman Suffrage Party, Newman started the Negro Suffrage Headquarters in Manhattan. [3] [2]

In 1924, seven years after women's suffrage was achieved in the year 1917, Lyda Newman can be found on the 51st election district for New York City voter list as a registered voter. [2]