March 19, 1895 Clatonia Joaquin Dorticus of Newton, New Jersey received patent number 535,820 for a device for applying coloring liquids to sides of soles or heels of shoes.

His invention was a brush that produced a brighter finish. Dorticus also received patent number 537,442 on April 16, 1895 for a method of mounting and embossing photographs, patent number 537,968 on April 23, 1895 for a photographic print or negative washer, and patent number 629,315 on July 18, 1899 for a hose lead stop. Other than the fact that he was born in Cuba, little else is known of Dorticus’ life.