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History of the Hammock
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History of the HammockMillions of people around the world enjoy a hammock for outdoor use, in the home, for camping, or wherever they want to rest. As most know, they are extremely comfortable and offer many conveniences to our lives, but one might ask, where did the hammock originate? The earliest hammock recorded in the history books was woven from the bark of the Hamack tree. The Sisal plant (similar in looks to an Aloe Vera plant) later replaced the bark, as the material of choice, in the hammock because it was more abundant, and its fibers could be softened by rubbing them against the thigh. The use of cotton is a relatively new material adopted only in the last 50 to 60 years! The citizens of almost every country in both South America and Central America have been using hammocks for nearly 1000 years. Because of the extensive trade routes that were established between these two regions, the hammock easily found its way into the hearts and homes of many natives. It didn't take long before they were being made from indigenous fabrics and materials which resulted into a multitude of different styles. By the 19th Century, the history takes an interesting turn as British prisons, needing space-saving options used them for beds.They were hung using large brass hooks that were securely fastened to the walls. This proved to be successful until the prisoners found that the brass hooks could be used as weapons, and their use was discontinued. By the 18th century, hammocks in North America were still considered a novelty. Most hammocks were narrow with wood staves, and demanded agility and balance on the part of the user. It wasn’t until the 1880’s, and a wider version, that the hammock became popular with North Americans. In recent years, there has been a big surge in hammock popularity. As more emphasis has been placed on developing stress-free habits, more individuals are looking at a variety of ways to relax. The hammock is no longer destined for use in third-world countries, but it has become a common site in gardens, decks, and inside homes in rec rooms, dens and bedrooms around the world. Its sheer comfort and space-saving abilities has added to its popularity. It is estimated that over one hundred million people around the world today use a hammock in their gardens and homes. They will continue to play a significant role in relaxation and decor. Yes, the hammock certainly has enjoyed a rich and interesting history. |
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