Who received the first American patent on a metallic coffin?

The first American patent on a metallic coffin was granted to Dr. Thomas Holmes in 1856. He was a physician and undertaker who created a design for a coffin made of metal, which was intended to withstand the elements and provide better preservation of the deceased. This innovation marked a significant development in burial practices at the time and contributed to the evolution of coffin design.

James Grey, while noted as a figure in the coffin industry, did not receive the first patent, which belongs to Dr. Holmes. Other individuals listed, like Auguste Hoffman and Richard Harlan, also contributed to various advancements in the field but are not associated with the first patent on a metallic coffin. Dr. Holmes’ patent was instrumental in establishing the use of metal in casket manufacturing, paving the way for future innovations in burial practices.