People often ask me how I come up with the subjects for my column. Some of my ideas are culled from overheard conversations I hear whenever I go out. Other column concepts derive from observations of everyday life. This column you are reading came to me during my attempt to clear the clutter on my desk. I always keep pieces of scrap paper and a pen to jot down column ideas. I learned long ago that relying solely on memory often leads to a sleepless night as I try to remember that great column idea I had hours earlier.

I gathered up pieces of paper with scribbled notes and separated them into piles. Column ideas, notes on a play I am writing and bills to be paid each had their own pile. To keep each pile intact I grabbed a fist full of paper clips.

That’s when I began to wonder where the paper clip came from. I was not thinking about the stationery aisle at Walmart nor Kristt Kelly Office Systems. I turned on my computer and began researching the history of the paper clip.

Prior to the invention of the paper clip, people used sealing wax, ribbons and pins to keep paper documents together. However, they were not reusable and far from convenient.

In an attempt to manufacture a device to temporarily bind documents, in 1825 John Howe invented a machine that quickly turned out straight pins. People stopped using his product when they realized they punched holes in important documents.

Near the beginning of the 20th century, a few companies fiddled with adapting the metal straight pin to make a clip that would not damage documents. Samuel Fay in 1867 received a patent for a bent wire clip. It was intended to hold pieces of fabric together.

The clip that is used most often these days was invented in 1899 by William Middlebrook. His machine turned out a double-looped bent clip he named the “GEM.” Middlebrook might have been a great inventor, but he was a lousy businessman. He never got a patent for his double-looped paper clip. That failure allowed competitors to copy his product and cash in on his idea.

The simple design of the paper clip enabled it to be used during World War 2 as a secret sign. Norway was occupied by the Nazis and the paper clip became a symbol of resistance to that regime. Norwegians wore paper clips on their lapels as a silent protest and proud display of solidarity.

The GEM paper clip remains the most favored design. However there have been numerous variations and innovations over the years. One example is the “Owl” paper clip with its two identical metal circles that resembles the eyes of an owl. Patented in 1904, it was designed to hold paper of many pages more securely.

There have been attempts to make the paper clip more attractive. In the 1950s plastic coated paper clips were introduced offering a range of colors and adding durability. They added a touch of color to the otherwise simple task of just holding papers.

An image of a paper clip has also been used in our digital age of computers. It is easily recognizable and conveys the idea of connecting and organizing information in emails. It is an icon that is easily recognized for attaching files to e-mail applications.

Artists and sculptors have taken advantage of the paper clip. They use the plain design as a feature in art, literature and even fashion. Artists have used paper clips to create intricate sculptures and installations showcasing the beauty and versatility of our humble object. I remember years ago seeing a sculpture of the Brooklyn Bridge made entirely out of paper clips.

I use many paper clips as I develop my columns. As an example, I just added another piece of paper with the paper clip to my pile of column ideas. So do not be surprised if you see a column soon about the history and use of the wooden clothespin. I think that is a ‘gem” of an idea!

Hudson Cooper is a resident of Sullivan County, a writer, comedian and actor.