The story of J. E. Hanger is a remarkable one with important ties to West Virginia, and it’s a story you’ve probably never even heard of before. Born in Churchville, Virginia, in 1843, Hanger’s life took an unexpected turn on June 3, 1861 when he became the first amputee of the Civil War. Hanger was just 18 years old and had been a soldier for less than a week when he was injured during the Battle of Philippi in what is now West Virginia. At a field hospital in a church in downtown Philippi, his leg was amputated just below the hip. This life-altering tragedy on a West Virginia battlefield propelled him on a path that would lead to the invention of the prosthetic, revolutionizing the lives of countless amputees worldwide.
In 1861, Hanger joined the Confederate Army and fought ferociously in the Battle of Philippi, West Virginia. During the intense combat, a cannonball struck his leg, forcing doctors to perform the first amputation of the war.
Hanger refused to let this setback define him. Determined to regain his independence and mobility, he began working on creating a prosthetic leg as soon as he returned home from his time as a soldier (and prisoner of war).
Hanger's tenacity paid off when he successfully designed and built his own prosthetic limb using willow wood and barrel hoops. This remarkable achievement (complete with an articulating knee joint) not only enabled him to walk again but also ignited a spark within him to help other amputees facing similar challenges.
Driven by his newfound passion, Hanger established the J. E. Hanger Company, which is now one of the oldest prosthetics manufacturers in the world. Recognizing the need for continual innovation, he dedicated his life to improving the existing technology and crafting prosthetic limbs that resembled natural movement as closely as possible.
Hanger's dedication and expertise paved the way for many groundbreaking developments in the field of prosthetics. He introduced adjustable prosthetic joints, suction sockets, and other groundbreaking advancements that significantly improved the comfort and functionality of prosthetic limbs.
Hanger's company, which later became known as Hanger, Inc., grew exponentially over the years. Today, it is one of the most respected and influential companies in the prosthetics industry, serving amputees worldwide. J. E. Hanger's unwavering determination, compassionate spirit, and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for others have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on history.
Although J. E. Hanger's own story began amidst the chaos of war and personal tragedy, he transformed his experience into an opportunity for growth and innovation. His legacy as a pioneer of prosthetics continues to inspire countless individuals with limb loss to pursue their dreams and lead fulfilling lives.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions (learn more about Hanger, Inc. at its website), including the invention of the prosthetic, J. E. Hanger was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2015. His story (which is memorialized on a plaque outside of the Barbour County Courthouse on Main Street in Philippi, West Virginia) testifies to the strength of the human spirit and the power of ingenuity to change lives for the better… and it all started right here in Philippi, West Virginia.
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