Name/Title
Children's BlocksEntry/Object ID
2022.2.32.62Description
Alphabet blocks have a long educational history. They were in use in the 17th century, and in 1693, philosopher John Locke popularized them by expressing that learning to read would be facilitated by the use of 'dice and play things with the letters on them'. Parents and educators have followed this advice every since, with numerous examples of alphabet blocks, both homemade and purchased, created for children.
By the late 19th century, alphabet blocks were being mass produced. In 1867, Samuel Hill of Brooklyn, New York gained a patent for a set of alphabet blocks, and Milton Bradley's company followed with a set in 1870. The set pictured here was commercially made.Location
Ohio State Park
Lake Loramie State Park
