Joseph J. Schermack

Place: Freeport

Born: 1871

Death: 1935

Biography:

Joseph Schermack was an American inventor and entrepreneur, born in Freeport, Illinois in 1871. He is best known for producing the first practical stamp vending machine in 1910, which revolutionized the way postage stamps were sold outside business hours and in a variety of public places. Schermack's invention was a significant departure from previous methods of selling stamps, and it quickly became a popular and convenient way for people to purchase stamps. Schermack's company, the Schermack Stamp Vending Machine Company, became a major player in the industry and produced a wide range of vending machines for use in post offices, train stations, and other public places. Schermack was also a prolific writer and inventor, holding numerous patents for his inventions. He died in 1935 at the age of 64.