March 30, 1858 marked the introduction of erasers on the top of pencils. These eraser-topped pencils continue to be widely used worldwide. The invention of erasers on pencils eliminated the concern of making mistakes on paper. Pencils have played a significant role in numerous inventions. They aid in learning, teaching, and innovation. Originally credited to Hyman Lipman, the creation of the pencil with an eraser top faced skepticism regarding its true inventor.
Pencils and erasers have existed for a considerable amount of time, but the idea of combining these two items had not crossed anyone’s mind until Lipman came along. Lipman, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was the innovator behind the creation of the eraser topped pencil. Initially, pencils were filled with lead, but nowadays graphite is used instead due to its non-toxic nature. Moreover, the preferred wood for making pencils is incense-cedar, typically found in California—a discovery made in the 1900s.
The eraser on pencils contains nonnatural rubber, as natural rubber rots similarly to food decay. Charles Goodyear invented a long-lasting rubber, ensuring durability. Manufacturing facilities for erasers are referred to as “plugs.” Presently, erasers are typically made from synthetic rubber and mixed with pumice. Sir Joseph Priestly, during a trade journey from South America, was the creator of erasers. It is interesting to note that the common yellow color accounts for 75% of pencils, as yellow symbolizes respect and royalty in China.
China is renowned globally for its graphite and the concept of “pencils” originated from an ancient English term meaning “brush.” Pencils have evolved with contributions from various regions worldwide and are now widely utilized. Throughout generations, pencils have been a vital instrument that encourages creativity and learning, particularly among younger generations. Despite being overlooked in today’s society, pencils remain in daily use and have played a pivotal role in our societal progress. Imagining our current state without pencils would be difficult.
