We think that it’s safe to say that just about everyone is familiar with earmuffs, but just in case, we’ll just say that they are warm pads that are worn over the ears to keep them warm. Now that we all know what earmuffs are, it’s time to take some time to celebrate National Earmuff Day. This holiday falls on March 13th every year and encourages everyone to put on their favorite pair of earmuffs-not just to keep their ears warm but to also show off their individual style.

The History Of Earmuffs

Earmuffs were first invented in 1873 by Chester Greenwood of Farmington, Maine. Mr. Greenwood was only 15-years old at the time and allegedly came up with the idea of protecting his ears with a thermal earmuff while he was ice skating. He then had his grandmother sew on fur to loops of wire. Four years later, at the age of 19, he would apply for and receive a United States Patent for these early earmuffs. Nine years later, his Greenwood & Company factory was making and shipping Champion Ear Protectors all over the world. In 1936, the company had one of its biggest years of all time and had produced 400,000 pairs of earmuffs.

Warm & Woolly Facts About Chester Greenwood

We know that you want to know about the man who invented earmuffs, so we decided to do a little bit of diffing and find out what facts we could dig up. Although it was an arduous task digging up the following facts, we’re quite glad that we took the time to do it. Now everyone will have the knowledge they need to celebrate this holiday in style.

Chester Greenwood’s Invention Was Remarkable

We can express just how remarkable Greenwood’s invention of earmuffs really was. He used pieces of beaver wool over wire loops that his grandmother had sewed on to create a beneficial and stylish product. Technically, it was an “Improvement In Ear-Mufflers” as stated by the documents for patent #188,292.

Greenwood Is A Local Hero

In Farmington, Maine, Greenwood is somewhat of a local hero. He was not only featured on the state’s website for the most remarkable entrepreneurs of Maine, but he even has his own holiday. Since 1997, Farmington has celebrated him on December 21st with Chester Greenwood Day. This day is coupled with a parade that’s usually observed on the first Saturday in December.

Earmuffs Weren’t Greenwood’s Only Invention

Greenwood didn’t just invent earmuffs, however. He also had 100 other patents. Some of these patents included a mousetrap that used artificial cheese, a folding bed, a washing machine, and even a shock absorber.

Observing National Earmuff Day

Break out your favorite pair of earmuffs and put them on because we’re all going to celebrate National Earmuff Day. Before you do so, however, make sure you snap a picture of them and post them on social media using the hashtag #NationalEarmuffDay. Let everyone know the pride that you have in your earmuffs.