Starlite

The story goes that the two people who know Coca-Cola’s secret formula aren’t allowed to travel together. If one plane crashes, the recipe survives. While there’s no confirmation on whether that’s true, it does make you think: what if something of immense value was lost forever due to one tragic incident?

Now, let’s talk about an invention that might just fit into this category of fiercely guarded secrets—a material called Starlite. Maurice Ward, an unassuming British hairdresser and amateur chemist, created Starlite in the 1980s. The substance was reportedly capable of withstanding extreme heat, protecting against explosions, and resisting radiation. Ward claimed it could shield an egg from a blowtorch or keep a blowtorch-wielded egg cool enough that you could touch it immediately afterward. He even showcased it on British television in a demonstration that left viewers awestruck.

Ward’s life took a drastic turn when he started showing off Starlite. Scientists, military experts, and corporations all lined up, hoping to acquire his invention. For years, Ward guarded his creation jealously. He insisted that he would not allow his invention to be produced on a large scale without a guarantee that he would retain control. He shared his secret formula with no one, not even his family, which only added to the intrigue. Offers from major corporations poured in, but Ward refused them all, fearing they would steal or misuse his creation.

Despite demonstrating the material’s capabilities to experts from NASA and the U.K.’s Atomic Weapons Establishment, Ward never disclosed its formula. Over time, Starlite became a near-mythical substance, with rumors swirling about its purported abilities. People marveled at what the material could do, speculating on how it might change everything from spacecraft design to fireproofing in buildings. Ward had achieved what most inventors dream of: he had something revolutionary, a true one-of-a-kind invention that everyone wanted. And he was the only one who knew its secret.

Ward’s refusal to let go of his creation became his hallmark. But as time passed, he also became increasingly wary, fearing that his invention might be stolen or misused in ways he couldn’t control. He would only demonstrate Starlite under strict conditions, revealing as little as possible while still proving its potential. And then, one day, the unthinkable happened. In 2011, Ward passed away suddenly, taking the secret of Starlite with him to the grave.

To this day, no one knows the exact composition of Starlite, and the world may never benefit from its incredible properties. Ward’s fear of losing control over his creation, ironically, led to its vanishing. And with it went the chance for further development, perhaps even revolutionizing safety in ways we can only imagine.

Ward’s story, as fascinating as it is, serves as a reminder of the unexpected turns life can take. It underscores why having proper estate planning is critical. You see, while Ward might have had his reasons for keeping Starlite a secret, his untimely passing meant that whatever intentions he might have had for his creation died with him. It’s a dramatic example of how quickly the unthinkable can happen, and how failing to prepare for that can leave loved ones, and even the world, in the lurch.

Most of us may not have an invention like Starlite locked away, but we all have things we care about—be it our families, businesses, or assets. Estate planning ensures that when the unexpected happens, what we value most doesn’t vanish with us. By putting the right structures in place, you can make sure that your legacy, whatever it may be, is preserved and directed as you wish. If anything, Ward’s tale serves as a reminder to not only create something but also to ensure it can endure beyond us, passing down to those who might continue our work, share our dreams, or simply remember us fondly.