Texan joins list of numerous inventors

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Dr. Charles Drew created blood banks, George Washington Carver discovered 300 ways to use peanuts and Lonnie Johnson invented the Supersoaker.

Those are just some of the many African Americans who have invented products that we use today.

At 67 years old, Harold Odom has been a builder, an athletic director, a healthcare manager and a sports agent.

"You name it, and I've done a lot of it," said Odom.

However, it's his role as an inventor that keeps Odom busy. The inventor said it is a career move he fell into.

"Inventors, many times, it's an accident,” said Odom. “You stumble upon something that excites you and intrigues you and makes a difference in the way people do things."

That sparked Odom's idea of a self-watering Christmas tree stand.

"I was concerned about how I would keep it from drying out and becoming a hazard," said Odom.

Odom’s first invention was a intravenous watering system for the Christmas Tree, it's called the Christmas Tree I-V.

And one idea lead to another invention.

"Since then, I've created a version of the Christmas tree stand. My first version of the Standtastic," said Odom.

The third invention created by Mr. Odom was called the mouse surfboard in 1996. It is a computer mouse pad that was made to be used while in your lap.

Odom said he looks at the accomplishments of those who came before him for inspiration.

"Typically African Americans have made things out things throughout our lives from the days of slavery,” said Odom. “We've taken the discards and the hand-me-downs and we've put things together."

He's started a tradition in his family that he said he hopes to pass on to his nine grandchildren.