One thing that we can always be certain of is that things change over time. And that includes technology. Take a moment to look back at your own life and reflect on how much has changed, especially when it comes to advancements in technology. It can be quite eye-opening to see just how much has evolved.
In today’s world, we have smart gadgets that make our lives easier. But have you ever wondered what technology looked like decades ago? For example, take a look at this “thing” in the image above. We bet you won’t know what it is unless you were around in the ’30s. It may look odd, but can you guess what this contraption could possibly be?
You would be completely forgiven for not knowing what this contraption is. In fact, it is a 1930’s vacuum cleaner called the Hercules. Yes, you heard that right! Back then, this retro vacuum cleaner was considered stylish and sophisticated. It was even covered in crocodile skin, making it quite an expensive purchase. Imagine having a vacuum cleaner that looks like a flask or some sort of carrier!
Life back then was certainly different. The Hercules vacuum cleaner was an exciting and innovative machine for its time. Can you imagine the impact it had on people’s lives? But today, we often take for granted just how easy our lives have become thanks to technology and progression.
If you knew what this item was, try showing it to your kids and see if they can guess! We bet they definitely won’t know what it is.
Did you know that the humble broom wasn’t perfected until 1797? A farmer from Massachusetts created a better broom after watching his wife struggle to sweep. It soon became a household name. But people wanted something even easier. So, in the 1860s, Daniel Hess invented the first real vacuum cleaner. This vacuum cleaner worked by drawing fine dust and dirt through the machine with the help of a draft of air.
But it wasn’t until James Murray Spangler came along that the vacuum cleaner was truly revolutionized. James, a humble janitor, dedicated himself to perfecting his design. His vacuum cleaner was not only upright but also portable, making it far more convenient to use. He patented it in 1907, opening the Electric Suction Sweeper Company.
The Hoover vacuum cleaner was born when James ran into financial trouble and sold his company to his cousin, Susan Hoover. This iconic vacuum cleaner had a motor-driven brush that made it incredibly efficient at cleaning carpets.
So the next time you use your modern vacuum cleaner, take a moment to appreciate the journey it has taken from the Hercules to the Hoover. Technology has come a long way, and we are fortunate to have gadgets that make our lives easier.
