We think it’s safe to say that just about everyone is familiar with earmuffs, but just in case, we’ll say that they are warm pads worn over the ears to keep them warm. Now that we all know what earmuffs are, it’s time to celebrate National Earmuff Day. This holiday falls on March 13th every year and encourages everyone to wear their favorite pair of earmuffs—not just to keep their ears warm but also to 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 thermal earmuffs while he was ice skating. He then had his grandmother sew fur onto loops of wire. Four years later, at the age of 19, he applied for and received 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, producing 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 digging and find out what facts we could dig up. Although it was an arduous task, 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’t express just how remarkable Greenwood’s invention of earmuffs really was. He used pieces of beaver wool over wire loops that his grandmother had sewn 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 as one of the most remarkable entrepreneurs of Maine, but he even has his own holiday. Since 1977, 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; 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 it on social media using the hashtag #NationalEarmuffDay. Let everyone know the pride you have in your earmuffs.