Intelligent, talented, and a great scientist, he had his own way of expressing love.
As a prominent scientist of the 20th century, Thomas Edison (1847-1931) is known for his practical inventions that serve humanity. Intelligent and skilled, he was also a devoted and passionate man.
At the age of 24, Thomas Edison was already the owner of a well-known business. Consequently, he was very busy. The way he proposed to his first wife just two months after meeting her reflects how occupied he was. One day, he approached his 16-year-old secretary, Mary, and whispered:
– Miss, I don’t want to waste time unnecessarily. I would like to ask you a very short and clear question: Would you be willing to be my wife?
Edison was met with silence as Mary was taken aback.
– What do you say? Will you accept my proposal? I ask you to think for five minutes. Edison reiterated.
– Five minutes? That’s too long! Yes, I accept – Mary immediately agreed.
Their wedding took place quickly following the prompt proposal. They later had three children together. Unfortunately, Mary passed away in 1884, leaving Edison heartbroken and longing for his late wife. He went to Boston and stayed with a friend named Gilliard to have someone to talk to in order to ease his sorrow.
One day, Gilliard’s home hosted a party, inviting Mina Miller, an 18-year-old pianist and lead singer for the event. Mina’s presence made Edison’s heart flutter once again.
They fell in love, but they chose not to use conventional language to communicate. Edison taught Mina how to use Morse code to keep their relationship more private.
One day, he sent a proposal message to his beloved: .– — ..- .-.. -.. -.– — ..- — .- .-. .-. -.– — . Mina did not hesitate to reply: -.– . …
Thomas Edison’s proposal message.
Their wedding was held on February 24, 1886, witnessed by many famous friends from both sides. Thomas Edison passed away at the age of 84, and his last words to his wife were: “It’s beautiful out there.” Their relationship remained strong throughout their lives. To this day, their graves are placed side by side in the memorial garden behind their home.
