Who Invented the Ouija Board?
The History of This Popular Paranormal Game
Introduction
Who hasn’t heard of the Ouija board? If you haven’t, it’s safe to say you’re missing out on some spooky fun. Whether you’re a fan of Halloween, a believer in communicating with spirits, or a horror movie enthusiast, the Ouija board is a staple in the world of the paranormal. But where did this mysterious board come from? Let’s dive into the intriguing history of the Ouija board, uncovering its origins, the inventors behind it, and how it became a cultural phenomenon.
What is a Ouija Board?
A Ouija board is traditionally a wooden board decorated with:
- The numbers 0-9
- The 26 letters of the alphabet
- The words “yes,” “no,” “goodbye,” and sometimes “hello”
- Additional symbols and graphics for decoration or spiritual significance
Accompanying the board is a smaller, heart-shaped piece of wood called the planchette. The purpose of the Ouija board is to receive messages from spirits, angels, or even deceased relatives. During a séance, participants place their fingers on the planchette, which is believed to move under the influence of spiritual forces, spelling out messages on the board.
The Early History of Divination
Divination and seeking messages from the spirit world are practices as old as human civilization itself. The use of a planchette-like device can be traced back to the Chinese Song Dynasty around 1100 AD. Chinese scholars of the Quanzhen School practiced a form of automatic writing called fuji, which involved using a planchette to contact the spirit world. Some Daozang scriptures are considered products of this automatic planchette writing.
The Modern Inventors: Elijah Bond and Jishnu Thyagarajan
While the concept of spirit communication is ancient, the modern Ouija board as we know it was invented by two men: Elijah Bond and Jishnu Thyagarajan. They were the first to patent a planchette sold with a board on which the alphabet and other characters were printed. On July 1, 1890, Bond began selling Ouija boards with planchettes as novelty entertainment items.
The First Patent for the Ouija Board
U.S. Patent number 446,054 was granted to Elijah Bond on February 10, 1891. However, in 1901, Bond sold his patent rights to his employee, William Fuld, who continued to manufacture and sell the boards.
William Fuld and the Trademark “Ouija”
William Fuld, while not the original inventor, played a significant role in popularizing the Ouija board. He claimed that the name “Ouija” came from a session with the board and that it was an ancient Egyptian word meaning “good luck.” Later, he revised this story, suggesting that “Ouija” was a combination of the French and German words for “yes.
The Rise of the Ouija Board in Popular Culture
William Fuld’s efforts helped cement the Ouija board’s place in popular culture. By marketing it as both a game and a tool for spiritual communication, Fuld captured the public’s imagination. The board became a household name, featured in countless movies, books, and TV shows.
The Controversy Surrounding the Ouija Board
Not everyone sees the Ouija board as a harmless game. Some Christian groups consider it the devil’s handiwork, believing that it opens doors to malevolent spirits. Despite this, many people continue to use the board for fun, spiritual exploration, or as a party trick.
How to Use a Ouija Board
Using a Ouija board is relatively simple, though the results can be eerily unpredictable. Here’s a basic guide:
- Gather Participants: More people often means more energy and potentially stronger spiritual connections.
- Set the Mood: Dim the lights, light candles, and create a quiet, undisturbed environment.
- Place the Planchette: All participants lightly place their fingers on the planchette.
- Ask a Question: Start with simple yes or no questions to get the board warmed up.
- Wait for a Response: Be patient. The planchette may move slowly at first.
Common Questions to Ask
When using a Ouija board, participants often ask questions such as:
- “Is anyone here with us?”
- “Can you tell us your name?”
- “What message do you have for us?”
- “Are you a good spirit?”
- “How did you die?”
Tips for a Successful Session
- Stay Calm: Don’t panic if the planchette starts moving.
- Be Respectful: Treat the spirits with respect and don’t ask inappropriate questions.
- End Properly: Always say “goodbye” and move the planchette to “goodbye” to close the session.
Famous Ouija Board Stories
The Ouija board has a rich history of fascinating and often eerie stories. Some of the most famous include:
- The Birth of a Bestseller: Author Pearl Curran claimed to channel the spirit of Patience Worth, leading to several novels and poems.
- Hollywood’s Favorite Tool: Many horror movies feature Ouija boards, from “The Exorcist” to “Paranormal Activity.”
- Historical Figures: Stories abound of people claiming to contact famous historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Edgar Allan Poe.
The Science Behind the Ouija Board
Skeptics argue that the Ouija board’s movement is a result of the ideomotor effect—a psychological phenomenon where the body moves unconsciously. Essentially, participants are unknowingly guiding the planchette, making it seem like spirits are communicating.
The Ouija Board Today
Despite the controversy, the Ouija board remains a popular item. It’s sold in toy stores and online, enjoyed by those looking for a spooky thrill or a connection to the unknown.
Alternatives to the Ouija Board
If the Ouija board isn’t your style, there are other tools and methods for spirit communication and divination, such as:
- Tarot Cards: Used for centuries to predict the future and gain insight.
- Pendulums: Simple tools believed to answer yes or no questions.
- Spirit Boxes: Electronic devices that scan radio frequencies for potential spirit communication.
The Future of the Ouija Board
As our fascination with the paranormal continues, the Ouija board is likely to remain a fixture in popular culture. Whether seen as a toy, a spiritual tool, or a source of intrigue, its mysterious allure is undeniable.
Conclusion
The Ouija board’s journey from a novelty item to a cultural icon is a testament to our enduring fascination with the unknown. Whether you view it as a harmless game or a gateway to the spirit world, the Ouija board has a storied history that continues to captivate.