What is the history of wooden jigsaw puzzles?

The history of wooden jigsaw puzzles dates back to the late 18th century, with the earliest known puzzles made of wood emerging in Europe. Here’s a brief overview of the history:

Early Origins: The precursor to modern jigsaw puzzles can be traced to hand-cut wooden maps, known as dissected maps, which were popular educational tools in Europe during the late 1700s. These maps were used to teach geography to children, with each country or region represented as a separate wooden piece.
Transition to Entertainment: Over time, the educational purpose of dissected maps evolved into entertainment, with manufacturers producing wooden puzzles featuring various themes and subjects. These puzzles were often hand-cut from thin plywood or solid wood and featured irregularly shaped pieces that interlocked together.
Rise in Popularity: Wooden jigsaw puzzles gained popularity throughout the 19th century, becoming a fashionable pastime among the upper class in Europe and North America. Puzzle manufacturers such as John Spilsbury in England and Milton Bradley in the United States produced a wide range of wooden puzzles, including maps, landscapes, historical scenes, and botanical illustrations.
Advancements in Production: The introduction of mechanical fretsaws and improved woodworking techniques in the mid-19th century facilitated the mass production of wooden puzzles. Manufacturers could now produce puzzles more efficiently and cost-effectively, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Golden Age of Puzzles: The late 19th and early 20th centuries are often referred to as the “Golden Age” of jigsaw puzzles, characterized by a surge in popularity and innovation. Wooden puzzles became more intricate and elaborate, featuring finely detailed illustrations, whimsical figurative pieces, and custom-shaped pieces tailored to the theme of the puzzle.
Decline and Resurgence: The popularity of wooden jigsaw puzzles waned in the mid-20th century with the rise of alternative forms of entertainment and the advent of mass-produced cardboard puzzles. However, wooden puzzles experienced a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, fueled by nostalgia, appreciation for craftsmanship, and the appeal of premium-quality puzzles made from sustainable materials.

Today, wooden jigsaw puzzles continue to be cherished by enthusiasts for their craftsmanship, durability, and timeless appeal. They are available in a variety of themes, sizes, and difficulty levels, catering to puzzle lovers of all ages and interests.