James Spangler

Early Life and Family

James Murray Spangler, born on November 20, 1848, in Plain Township, Pennsylvania, was an American inventor best known for creating the first commercially successful portable electric vacuum cleaner. His invention transformed household cleaning and laid the foundation for modern vacuum technology. James Spangler  was born to William and Elizabeth Lind Spangler, one of ten children. The family later moved to Stark County, Ohio. On May 21, 1874, he married Elista Amanda Holtz, with whom he had three children: Clarence, Francis, and Jennie.

Education and Early Career

He worked various jobs throughout his life. In 1880, the family moved to Akron, Ohio, where Spangler initially worked as a salesman, first for his brother and later for the Aultman Company. Spangler’s inventive nature was evident early on. His first patent, granted in 1887, was for improvements to a grain harvester. In 1893, he patented a combined hay rake and tedder, which aimed to reduce costs by combining two tools into one. He also patented a velocipede wagon in 1897, though its success was limited due to the rising popularity of bicycles

The Invention of the Portable Electric Vacuum Cleaner

Spangler’s most significant contribution came while working as a janitor at Zollinger’s Dry Goods Store in Canton, Ohio. As an asthmatic, he found that the dust stirred up by his carpet sweeper aggravated his condition. This personal challenge inspired him to create a solution.

In 1907, Spangler developed his first prototype. He mounted an electric fan motor on a carpet sweeper, added a box and a broom handle, and used a pillowcase as a dust collector. After refining his design, Spangler received a patent for his “suction sweeper” on June 2, 1908.

Impact and Legacy

Spangler’s invention revolutionized home cleaning. His vacuum cleaner was the first to be practical for home use, featuring both a cloth filter bag and cleaning attachments. Initially, Spangler attempted to manufacture and sell his invention himself, forming the Electric Suction Sweeper Company. However, financial constraints led him to sell his patent to William H. Hoover in 1908.

Later Years and Death

After selling his patent, Spangler continued to work for the Hoover Company as a superintendent. His wife and daughter made bags for the sweepers until 1914, and his son worked for the company for a year. James Murray Spangler passed away on January 22, 1915, at the age of 66, just before he was set to take his first vacation in Florida.

Spangler’s invention of the portable electric vacuum cleaner not only improved the lives of millions by making home cleaning easier and more efficient but also laid the groundwork for an entire industry. While his name may not be as widely recognized as Hoover’s, James Murray Spangler’s innovative spirit and problem-solving approach left an indelible mark on household technology.