38: The Dough of Destiny: The Life and Legacy of Judy W. Reed

Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons

Date: October 15, 2025

Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons

Title and Show Info

Episode #38. “The Dough of Destiny: The Life and Legacy of Judy W. Reed”

Featuring: Toni Davis (Host & Storyteller).

Summary

In this compelling episode of The Dough of Destiny, we travel back to the 19th century to meet the extraordinary Judy W. Reed, a woman who kneaded more than just dough—she kneaded her way into history. Born in 1826, Judy broke barriers and defied odds to become the first African American woman ever to receive a Unites States patent.

Her invention? A revolutionary Dough Kneader and Roller, patented in September 1884, that changed the way bread was made across America. But who was Judy beyond her invention? We follow her courageous journey to her move from Virginia to Washington, D.C.

Despite the challenges of her time, Judy’s story is one of resilience and quiet brilliance. Yet, like many innovators, her legacy almost faded into obscurity after her passing in 1905.

Join us as we uncover the story of this unsung hero who became a pioneer in a world that often refused to acknowledge her worth. Judy W. Reed’s story is more than just history—it’s a testament to the power of persistence and innovation. Don’t miss this compelling episode that will leave you hungry for more!

Highlights:

01:00= EPILOGUE

01:26= INTRO

01:33= JUDY’S BIRTH.

05:12= END OF THE CIVIL WAR.

05:53= WASHINGTON, D.C.

07:17= BEGINS TO BAKE.

10:23= DOUGH KNEADER AND ROLLER INVENTION.

12:13= DOUGH KNEADER AND ROLLER INVENTION PATENT REQUEST.

13:03= PATENT APPROVED.

13:13= 1ST AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN TO RECEIVE A US PATENT.

13:21= US PATENT#.

16:44= JUDY’S DEATH.

18:30= CONCLUSION.

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Links To Additional Resources:

Judy W. Reed (ca. 1826-?) • (blackpast.org)

Judy Reed - Kids | Britannica Kids | Homework Help

Judy W. Reed, Inventor born - African American Registry (aaregistry.org)

Judy Reed the first black woman to receive a US patent | Viva (vocal.media)

Judy W. Reed - Wikipedia

Thomas Jennings & Judy Reed - Black Innovators (housefulofnicholes.com)

Judy W. Reed – First African American woman to receive patent – African American History Month 2015 #BlackHistoryMonth « Adafruit Industries – Makers, hackers, artists, designers and engineers!