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Science in Sport, or the Pleasures of Astronomy. A New Game, 1804 (cardboard)
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Science in Sport, or the Pleasures of Astronomy. A New Game, 1804 (cardboard)
7339962 Science in Sport, or the Pleasures of Astronomy. A New Game, 1804 (cardboard) by Wallis, John (19th century); 19.5x15.5 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: John Wallis
The game is based on the traditional Game of the Goose, which was adapted to a wide range of themed boards, many produced by John Wallis, one of the leading publishers of board games in the early 19th century. Margaret Bryan (1795-1816) ran a girl's school in Blackheath and was author of a number of popular works on science (ZBA4475 is her portrait), and Wallis evidently felt that her association with this game would be a testament to its accuracy, as well as highlighting its suitability for girls education.
The board has thirty-five numbered squares depicting astronomical objects, instruments and principles as well as astronomers (Ptolemy, Tycho Brahe, Nicholas Copernicus, Isaac Newton) and moral lessons (e.g. a studious and idle boy, the county gaol and an army volunteer). One square shows the man in the moon as an example of ignorance in astronomy. By spinning a te-totum, players can travel over the board, the object being to spin numbers up to thirty-five and reach the final square, depicting Flamsteed House: Whoever first arrives here is to take the title of Astronomer Royal'. The game involves much rote learning as well as moral lessons en route: within the rules of the game accuracy of knowledge and zeal are rewarded, while ignorance and idleness are punished. The requirements of each square and its consequences were recorded in an accompanying booklet, although this has been lost from this edition.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38515486
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
Astronomer Astronomers Physicist Physics Scientists General Knowledge Knowing
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate and educational board game titled "Science in Sport, or the Pleasures of Astronomy. A New Game" from 1804. Created by John Wallis, a prominent publisher of board games in the early 19th century, this game is based on the traditional Game of the Goose but with a fascinating astronomical twist.
Featuring thirty-five numbered squares depicting various astronomical objects, instruments, astronomers such as Ptolemy and Isaac Newton, as well as moral lessons intertwined with scientific knowledge, this game aimed to educate players while entertaining them. Players would spin a 'te-totum' to move across the board and reach Flamsteed House to be crowned Astronomer Royal.
The association of Margaret Bryan, an author and educator who ran a girl's school in Blackheath, with this game further emphasized its accuracy and suitability for girls' education during that time. The inclusion of moral lessons along with scientific principles made this game not only entertaining but also enriching for players.
Overall, "Science in Sport" serves as a testament to the importance of combining fun and learning in educational tools like board games. Its detailed design and incorporation of astronomy make it a valuable piece of historical artifact that highlights both scientific knowledge and moral values from centuries past.
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