The birth of the roller-skate

With Britain facing a  future of raised petrol prices it’s more than likely that the country and its drivers will turn to alternative and cheaper modes of transport. What better to meet their needs than the both efficient and charmingly old school roller skate?

It’s been 135 years this month since The Engineer reported on developments in the design of the roller skate, or the “parlour velocipede” as it was known.  The invention was pioneered for German barmaids during the mid 1800’s in an attempt to serve punters more efficiently, due to the nature of the skate however women found they struggled to turn in a smooth curve when wearing them.

First patented in 1819 by French inventor M.Petitbled the early rollerskate was similar to the modern day inline skate. But, unlike the 20th century design, Petitbled’s wheels were sized with an equal diameter and made of metal, the weight making it virtually impossible for the skater to lift their foot.