Have you ever been asked a question about our industry that you should know the answer to but are completely baffled? I had this just the other day when someone asked, "Hey, you're in the amusement industry, when was roller skating invented?" My answer; I have no idea!
It set about lengthy google search, where all answers can be found, and some intriguing information.
To answer the first question, roller skating dates to the 1700's, when a Dutchman took wooden spools (google them), attached them to a piece of wood, and placed them on the bottom of his shoes. This "invention" did not last long, they broke right away (Palumbo, 2021, National Geographic)
Even though the first attempt failed, this is where we can safely say roller skating began. From there, many inventors tried to master the manufacturing, but the first patented roller skate came from C.L. Petilbled (Palumbo, 2021, National Geographic)
If you are interested in more, take some time and follow this link. You will not be disappointed. National Geographic