In the 1950s, a peculiar invention emerged, its purpose shrouded in mystery. Unearthed online, this oddity baffled many until recently. “About 1 in 10,000 people” recall its original use, revealing a surprising history.
This enigmatic machine, owned by Marjorie Joyner, a Chicago salon owner, holds a patent. Initially perplexing, it was a widely-used device in businesses and homes. Featuring a circular top with attached cords and small items, it turns out to be a wave machine.
Joyner designed it to simplify and hasten the permanent wave process. However, despite its popularity, the machine had flaws. It often tangled and even burnt hair if left too long, dampening its reception. Though largely forgotten, this invention once played a notable role in transforming hairstyles during the ’50s.
