Spelling Board (game)

Dateca. 1886

Mediumwood, paint, iron

Dimensions9 1/8 × 13 5/8 × 1 1/4 in. (23.2 × 34.6 × 3.2 cm)

ClassificationsRecreational Objects

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Gail Montgomery

Object numberPC1983.99.1

DescriptionThis late 19th-century tabletop spelling game consists of a rectangular wooden board with beveled corners, painted a warm yellow hue with red floral and geometric designs. The game features grooved tracks, allowing for the movement of round wooden letter disks, each painted with a black uppercase letter. A central metal pin aids in guiding the disks along the path to form words. The board bears the patent date “PAT. 1886” stamped along the edge. Manufactured in California, this game reflects the growing emphasis on education and literacy during the late 19th century. Such parlor games were popular in households and schools, offering both entertainment and a means of practicing spelling skills.

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