Hangers - History of Hangers

Wrinkled clothes plague concerned parents everywhere, as their ambitions to ensure their children are wearing nice, neat clothes are constantly foiled. However, a 19^th century invention really improved their ability to keep clothes from becoming wrinkled. The clothes hanger was first developed in 1860, and since has been a close friend of frustrated parents across the country.

O.A. North invented the first metal clothes hanger in 1860 as a way to save space within his wardrobe. This first module looked a bit different that the triangular wire hanger of today, and instead was had by an oval shaped bottom. However, the function was still essentially the same.

In 1932 Schuyler C. Hulett devised an extra addition to the hanger. Covering the upper and lower metal wires with a small cardboard tube, this design helped to prevent creases and wrinkles formed from the hanger itself. In 1935, an additional tube was added to the lower bar as well.

Although the current design remains similar to the original 1800s design, the variety, size, and substance of hanger has continue to expand. Built from wood, plastic, rubber, and wire the diversity of the clothes hanger has even been expanded through the addition of padding with materials like satin and lace. Each of these hangers is also extremely environmentally friendly, as they can be reused throughout a lifetime for multiple clothing styles and fabrics.

In households around the country the original design of the hanger remains as strong as it did when it was first invented in the 1800s. As its structure really needs no grand improvements, it will be unlikely to undergo future alterations to improve its function. However, due to its versatile nature, it is likely that the hanger will continue to remain a staple household item found throughout the country's closets.