The first version of what we know today as rocking horses were designed to train soldiers in swordsmanship and skills for battle. These wheeled horses were used by adults but eventually smaller child size versions were produced to prepare young boys for following their fathers into battle.
As the rocking horse became more of a children’s plaything than a training tool, rich families began to buy wooden rocking horses for their children. These first horses were hand carved by skilled craftsmen and considered an expensive toy for the privileged. Queen Victoria herself purchased a rocking horse, further increased their popularity and reputation as a ‘must-have’ toy for children of the rich.
These original Victorian rocking horses are now highly sought after collector’s items. An antique rocking horse is truly a work of art, carved with fine craftsmanship that is not often seen in children’s toys today.
antique rocking horse picture by joeflintham on flickr
London was the center of wooden rocking horse creation during the 19th century, with high respected manufacturers such as FH Ayres and G&J Lines producing horses to be sold in large department stores such as Selfridges, Harrods and Hamleys.
The original wood rocking horse was based on a bow rocker design, but when their popularity spread to America, a new version was created with a swinger base. This new design had advantages over the rocker style as it required less space to use and did not move across the floor as it was rocked.
The production of antique rocking horses slowed during World War I due to a lack of materials, workers and the economic decline, however rocking horses are now making a comeback as today’s skilled wood workers recreate the charming designs that were so popular in their heyday.
The development of modern technology has made it much quicker and easier to produce beautifully carved wooden horses and skilled artisans now produce these for parents today so that their children can enjoy a beautiful and traditional rocking horse toy made from a natural material.
Modern rocking horses are not only the domain of hand crafters. Large toy companies have also recognized the increasing interest in rocking toys and now mass-produce cheaper versions for families of all budgets to enjoy. One of the significant developments in modern rocking horse development is the baby rocking horse. Traditional rocking horses were designed for older children but now it is possible to buy a plush rocking horse for your baby or toddler which is safe and friendly to use.