The Chaotic Birth of Indoor Ice Skating ⛸️

Paris Goes Ice-Crazy

In May 1876, France’s first indoor ice rink opened in Paris, drawing throngs of wealthy spectators eager to see ice in summer. Within minutes, crowds swarmed the building, scaling scaffolding and leaping through windows to enter. The chaos caused injuries and fainting, all for a glimpse of the ice.

The Birth of Synthetic Ice

This frenzy followed years of innovation, beginning with British inventor Henry Kirk’s synthetic ice rink in 1844, made from materials like hog’s lard. Though initially popular, its unpleasant smell led to its decline.

A New Approach to Ice

John Gambee revived the indoor rink idea using real ice and a cooling system in 1876, inspiring new rinks worldwide. The invention caught on in Paris, where opening night mania mirrored London’s earlier excitement.

A Global Sensation

Despite initial resistance in America, artificial ice rinks spread, becoming common in cities worldwide. By the late 19th century, “rink mania” had transformed from a European curiosity into a global phenomenon.

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