🗓️ June 28, 1846 & 1864: From Sax’s Saxophone to an Inventor Denied His Patent

“One June 28 introduced a voice to music—another muffled a voice of invention.”

🎷 June 28, 1846: Adolphe Sax Patents the Saxophone

On this day in 1846, Belgian-born instrument-maker Adolphe Sax patented his revolutionary saxophone via a series of 14 patents filed in Paris. Sax’s design married the finger-friendly setup of woodwinds with the sound projection of brass, creating a powerful, versatile instrument spanning sopranino to contrabass sizes.

The saxophone went on to become deeply embedded in classical orchestras, military bands, and eventually—jazz and pop. From Charlemagne’s court to Coltrane’s sax solos, Sax’s eternally sultry invention changed the soundtrack of the modern world.

🎶 What Made It Unique?

Hybrid design: Single-reed mouthpiece with conical brass body.
Expanded range: Available in seven sizes from sopranino to contrabass.
Musical legacy: Became a staple in classical and jazz repertoires.

🛠 June 28, 1864: B. T. Montgomery’s Denied Patent

Also on June 28—but 18 years later—the Patent Office rejected an application from B. T. Montgomery, a Black inventor who sought a patent for a novel propeller design.

The refusal wasn't based on invention quality, but on prejudice: the Patent Office doubted his claim — despite Congress later finally allowing patent filings by formerly enslaved people.

💔 Why It Matters

Systemic bias: Montgomery’s experience reflects the racial discrimination in 19th-century patent law.
Long shadow: Patent rejections like his delayed economic progress for Black inventors.
Legacy of inequity: Jewish inventor Jefferson Davis later passed laws allowing patents for former slaves.

⚖️ A Day of Contrasts

June 28 marks both celebration and sorrow: Sax’s musical brilliance began to echo across nations, while Montgomery’s inventive spark was silenced by injustice. It’s a reminder that innovation thrives best in fairness—so we can fully hear its song.

😄 Witty Interlude

Imagine a world without saxophone solos—and with every “Eureka!” obstructed. We’d have zero jazz and zero justice. Yikes!

🧾 TL;DR Summary

June 28, 1846: Adolphe Sax patents the saxophone—bridging brass and woodwinds.
June 28, 1864: B. T. Montgomery, a Black inventor, is denied a patent for a propeller design due to prejudice.
Takeaway: A day celebrating musical innovation—and reflecting on the barriers inventors faced.

📣 Join the Conversation

Which story resonates more with you—the musical triumph or the silenced inventor? Have you been moved by a sax solo or inspired to champion invention equity? Drop your thoughts below.

📚 Sources & Inspiration

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