When was the first punch needle invented?

As far as we know, the first punch needle was invented in 1881. Called “The Griffin,” it was patented by Ebenezer Ross in Toledo Ohio. Since that time, there have been over 100 different brands of punch needles. Early punch needles were advertised and marketed to be used with both yarn and fabric strips. (Similarly, the first “traditionally” hooked rugs were made with both yarn and strips as well. Early rug hookers used whatever materials they had on hand. What a wonderful luxury we have today to have so many beautiful fibers at our fingertips!)