Always Has Been: Chapter 1: Alice H. Parker and Her Pioneering Furnace Design

In 1909, Alice H. Parker, an African American inventor, revolutionized home heating with her innovative furnace design. Departing from the then-standard wood and coal systems, Parker utilized natural gas, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency in homes. Her concept marked a significant step toward the central heating systems we rely on today, offering a safer, more efficient alternative. Parker's work not only improved living conditions but also laid the foundation for modern residential heating solutions.