The LP
The LP (long-playing record) was a major force in popular culture, shifting the way we consumed music from the song to the album and opening up fresh territory for creativity. LPs were also a major economic mover, responsible for 300 million units annually in the format’s heyday. CBS Laboratories (CBS Records logo is above) gets credit for the innovation, which took place at 485 Madison Avenue. Research scientist Peter Goldmark led the way, with the LP unveiled at a press conference at the Waldorf-Astoria on June 21, 1948.
The Safety Pin
It’s hard to believe that prior to 1849, this device didn’t exist. The safety pin is a New York City original, invented by Walter Hunt of New York City. He sold his patent for $400 to W. R. Grace and Company, which was headquartered in the city for many years before moving to Maryland.
The Stroller
Sure, there were baby buggies going way back, but the stroller design came directly from New York City. Charles Burton got the idea in 1848, with his innovation that you would push instead of pull—that’s a follow-up patent above. We all know what happened in the long run. (In the short run, New Yorkers found the device unwieldy, and Burton had to go to England, where the royal family’s interest in the “pram” led to eventual success.)
Source: “Made In NYC,” by Ethan Wolff, March 2024, City Guide New York
Contributed by Bobbie Roggemann