In the late 19th century, Sarah E. Goode, an African American entrepreneur, introduced the Folding Cabinet Bed, a revolutionary piece of furniture that transformed from a cabinet into a bed, solving space constraints in urban living.
She received a patent in 1885 for this innovation. Goode's invention paved the way for modern fold-out beds and inspired the furniture industry. Despite claims of being the first African American woman to receive a U.S. patent, historical records suggest Judy W. Reed may hold that distinction. The Sarah E. Goode STEM Academy in Chicago was established in her honor in 2012.
