Henrietta Caroline Bentley received a patent for a “bed for invalids, which may be made and the linen changed without inconveniencing the patient” (Stanley, 1995). The patent was registered on August 7, 1794 (Subject matter…, 1857).
In a list of pensions granted by King George, alongside the Herschell’s, Miss Bentley was granted 300 pounds per annum (Accounts…, 1820). She was later noted as receiving an annual pension of 150 pounds (Journal…, 1830).
While little else is known about the inventor, and there would continue to be new improvements to hospital or invalid beds into the future, Miss Bentley is an example of the robust world of women inventors, scientists, and contributors that with all the disadvantages of their sex were still able to make significant contributions to the British empire.
Accounts and Papers of the House of Commons. (1820). United Kingdom: Ordered to be printed.
Journals of the House of Commons. (1830). United Kingdom: H.M. Stationery Office.
Stanley, A. (1995). Mothers and Daughters of Invention: Notes for a Revised History of Technology. United States: Rutgers University Press.
Subject-matter Index of Specifications of Patents. (1857). United Kingdom: H.M. Stationery Office.
