July 3: The Once-Rejected Zipper

Today you can find one on pants and dresses, even boots and backpacks.  But when Gideon Sundback introduced his zipper in 1914, people didn’t get it—or want any part of it. After all, they had buttons, hooks and clasps.

Earlier versions proved to be part of the problem; they jammed and pulled apart too easily.  That’s why Sundback gets credit as the inventor of the zipper, because his device was practical and reliable.

The U.S. Army used Sundback’s zipper for gear and clothing in World War I. It became a mainstay in civilian clothing in 1923 when B.F. Goodrich Company updated the standard boot, calling it the “zipper boot.” The name stuck—and so did the idea of zippers for fashion.

Not every idea is perfect at the start. But collaboration in thought and deed can help sew up success in the long run.

Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the

desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4)

Give me strength, Lord, to pursue my dreams.