Ostrich feather dusters

One of the most useful contributions of the Ostrich feather to industry is its use in the feather duster. Although feather dusters have been in production since the 1800s the Ostrich Feather Duster was not invented until the beginning of the 1900s.

The basic feather duster is actually a patented invention. The original South African Ostrich Feather Dusters were invented in Johannesburg, South Africa by missionary, broom factory manager, Harry S. Beckner in 1903.

The Ostrich feather is unique in its durability, softness and flexibility which accounts for the success of the Ostrich feather duster over the last 100 years. Because the feather does not zipper together like most birds it can develop a static charge when rubbed against a surface.

This actually attracts and holds dust which can then be shaken out or washed off. Because of its similar makeup to human hair, care of the ostrich feather requires only an occasional shampoo and towel or air dry.

Trivia

• The feather duster was considered a status symbol in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
• Susan Hibbard is credited with the first Feather Duster Patent in 1876.
• Harry S. Beckner invented the first Ostrich feather duster in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1903.
• Ostrich Feather Dusters have been known to last for over 20 years.

 

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