History of Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles have been entertaining families for centuries. They have a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1700s. These puzzles were originally used for educating children, but they quickly caught on with adults and have been a joy for all ages ever since.

John Spilsbury- the inventor

The first jigsaw puzzle was created by John Spilsbury around 1760. Spilsbury was an engraver and mapmaker by trade. He mounted one of his maps on a thin sheet of wood and cut around all of the countries using a fine-bladed saw. This product was intended for use in teaching geography to the children of his native England. His clever idea quickly caught on, and others began manufacturing the puzzles. They were called "dissected maps".

More than just a child's toy

Until the late 1800s, jigsaw puzzles were considered to be another tool for teaching children. They were not attractive to adults. However, with the introduction of the treadle saw, the puzzles were much easier to produce. Puzzle makers began printing puzzles with illustrations meant for adults, and they quickly caught on. The "dissections" became known as jigsaw puzzles around this time. Cardboard puzzles were introduced to replace wood puzzles. Cardboard was mostly used for children's puzzles since it was cheap. They sold for $0.25. Wood puzzles were marketed as high quality for adults.

The Golden Age

In the 1920s, jigsaw puzzles really came into their own. Many companies started producing cardboard puzzles, and the puzzles became much more intricate and difficult. They had sentimental scenes, rail yard and shipping scenes and advertising images on them. They were an inexpensive way to enjoy fun activities during the Great Depression.

Jigsaw puzzles have delighted people of all ages for more than 300 years. With a rich and interesting history, the jigsaw puzzle is going to last at least 300 more.