Skates Made of Bone: A History

Before metal-bladed skates were invented, people in Europe used ice skates made from animal bones for thousands of years. Thousands of examples have been found in Bronze Age archaeological sites, and they are often mentioned in popular books on the Vikings. Bone skates continued to be used in rural areas until the early 1970s and help scientists and re-enactors understand migrations and interactions among ancient peoples.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 181 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2020
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Before the invention of metal-bladed skates, ice skates made from animal bones were widely used in Europe for millennia. Numerous examples of these ancient skates have been discovered through Bronze Age archaeological excavations, with thousands of findings scattered across various sites. These bone skates have gained significant attention in popular books on the Vikings and even appear in children's literature, captivating the imagination of readers young and old.

While metal skates eventually became the preferred choice, bone skates continued to be used in rural areas even into the early 1970s. These skates hold a unique significance for scientists and re-enactors who seek to understand the migratory patterns and interactions of ancient peoples. This book serves as a comprehensive guide on how to make and use bone skates, providing a deep dive into their history, from their likely origin in the Eurasian steppes to their eventual disappearance in the modern era.

The use of bone skates offers a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors, who adapted their tools and equipment to suit their needs in different environments. It also sheds light on the cultural and social dynamics of ancient societies, as the popularity and usage of bone skates varied across regions and time periods. By exploring the history and practical aspects of bone skates, this book provides valuable insights into the rich tapestry of human civilization.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 178 x 253 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476673905