Gem City Jewel: Balsley 1st to patent step ladder

Although the step ladder had been around for several years prior to 1862, John H. Balsley would be the first man to patent the idea. The name “step ladder” arose from the fact that the ladder had flat steps for the user to stand on, in place of large, round rungs. In addition, Balsley’s ladder had a hinge at the top of the back brace so that it had the ability to be folded. The patent office must have believed that Balsley’s idea was a step in the right direction, for he was granted patent #34,100 for his innovative invention on January 7, 1862.