I tend to go down a lot of odd paths when researching for writing projects. Here’s a sample. Enjoy!
When were actual chalkboards invented, and what was used before that?
Briefly: The first patent for a modern-style chalkboard (well, modern-ish, given that we’re now in the era of whiteboards and computers, while chalkboards are slowly fading from common use) was granted in 1823. There were two forms: a painted pine board was the simplest, while the more complicated involved a mixture painted on the walls themselves.
As to what was used before: slate, which is formed from shale, was scraped and cut into the desired shape, then put inside a wooden frame. (Slate is also what’s often under the felt on pool tables, by the way.)
The chalkboards us living old folk remember being a major feature in our classrooms, though, are largely porcelain enamel with a solid steel base. The green version started being used around 1930, and that’s when they started to be called chalkboards.
I’m annoyed to find that while I distinctly remember seeing something about very very early slate boards — like, barely into the C.E. range — I cannot find it again. It’s probably buried in one of many folders or bookmark lists. Since the above links already gave me the answer I was looking for in regards to my writing project, I’m okay with stopping here.
I have a lot more to post; in the interests of keeping to a manageable length, I’ll stick to one topic at a time. So go explore those links and check back soon!
Sources
Museum of Teaching and Learning
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