Natural Tote Bag (Anna M. Mangin)

Anna M. Mangin (October 1844 – March 1, 1931) was an American inventor, educator, and caterer. She is best known for inventing a kitchen tool she called the pastry fork in 1891. This pastry fork was different from the eating utensil also known as a pastry fork. Her invention made significant contributions to everyday domestic needs in the 19th century. Beyond her inventive work, Anna M. Mangin was also a women’s rights campaigner. 🌟

Early Life:

Anna M. Mangin was born as Anna Matilda Barker in October 1844 in the state of Louisiana.
Her parents were Jacob Barker and Polly Shelton. Jacob Barker was a prosperous planter, merchant, and politician.
Annie was adopted by a childless couple, Elizabeth S. Ray and Abraham M. Nahar, who raised her on Nantucket Island. She received an integrated education alongside white and non-white children1

Career:

During the American Civil War, Annie Nahar taught school in New Orleans under the auspices of the Freedmen’s Bureau.
She later became the principal of the Coliseum School in New Orleans.
In 1891, she invented the pastry fork, a kitchen tool that served a different purpose from the traditional eating utensil.
Her contributions extended beyond invention; she was an advocate for women’s rights123
Anna M. Mangin’s legacy as an inventor and educator continues to inspire.