18 Facts About Sarah Guppy

Sarah Guppy, nee Beach was an English inventor and the first woman to patent a bridge, in 1811.

Sarah Guppy developed a range of other domestic and marine products.

Sarah Guppy patented her ideas for a chain bridge in 1811 but this design was never realised.

Sarah Guppy was very selfless in her invention process, and cared more for the greater good of the public than for her own personal gain or credit.

For example, while she contributed significantly to the design of Thomas Telford's Menai Bridge, Sarah Guppy waived the fees for Telford's use of her ideas.

Sarah Guppy contributed the majority to this bridge design, however personal profit was not the priority.

Sarah Guppy grew up in a wealthy family, and was educated and surrounded by innovative thinkers.

When she married Samuel Sarah Guppy, who was a machinery builder, she was surrounded by the trade and learned how to negotiate and run a business, while simultaneously learning about the engineering industry.

Since Samuel had interest in numerous fields, Sarah Guppy wanted to get involved and Samuel supported his wife in taking charge of negotiations for his manufacturing business deals.

When Sarah Guppy granted Telford permission to use her design and ideas for free, there is little evidence that he or other engineers ever acknowledged her invention and gave her due credit.

Sarah Guppy has been overlooked for her work in bridge engineering advances, because her contributions as a woman were taken over by prominent male engineers.

Something less publicized on Sarah Guppy was her active role in the social sphere, and philanthropic contributions to education and female education.

Sarah Guppy published pamphlets on public health issues, agriculture, education, and animal welfare.

Sarah Guppy advocated for vulnerable groups, using her platform and voice to encourage progress and positive change towards a more equitable society.

Sarah Guppy bought the land opposite the house for the benefit of Clifton residents and it still remains green space.

Sarah Guppy left Richard Coote and lived solo before passing away.

Sarah Guppy used her resources to the maximum, and combined with her motivation, drive, and curiosity.

Sarah Guppy was eccentric and did not let gender roles take away from her opportunities to take action on her ideas and make an impact on society.