Do you ever wonder what people did for fun centuries ago? Believe it or not, hobbies have been around as long as humans have—though our ancestors’ idea of fun was a bit different than scrolling social media or going thrifting. Centuries ago some hobbies started out as survival skills or creative outlets and have evolved alongside society, culture, and technology. Some disappeared with the times (goodbye, pigeon racing!), while others are staging a grand comeback in this era of slow living and rediscovering simple joys. Let’s take a stroll down history lane and explore how hobbies have shaped—and reshaped—our lives over the centuries.
In ancient civilizations, hobbies were often born out of necessity. People crafted pottery, wove textiles, or painted on cave walls. But even then, there was room for creativity. Storytelling around the fire, playing early musical instruments, and creating art were some of the earliest ways humans indulged their curious and creative sides. In ancient times pottery was made to hold food or use in cooking, and in some cultures used in religious or ceremonial practices.
Fast forward to medieval times, and hobbies started to reflect both skill and social standing. Upper-class folks dabbled in embroidery, chess, and music—activities that showed off their refinement. Meanwhile, the working class found joy in simpler pastimes like storytelling, singing, and even some of the earliest forms of competitive sports.
Fun fact: Chess became a big deal during this period. It wasn’t just a game; it was a way to flex your strategic thinking and prove you were clever enough to hang with the nobility.
The Industrial Revolution changed everything—including how people spent their free time. As work became more efficient, leisure time grew. This era saw the rise of hobbies like stamp collecting, gardening, and photography. People were suddenly able to enjoy activities that were purely for their own satisfaction rather than survival.
Imagine this: It’s the late 1800s, and you’re meticulously arranging your collection of rare stamps or perfecting your photos with one of those clunky early cameras. Doesn’t sound so different from today’s scrapbookers or Instagram enthusiasts, does it?
Not every hobby stands the test of time. Some fall victim to cultural shifts, technological advances, or plain old lack of interest. Here are a few that have (mostly) disappeared:
Morse Code Tapping: Once a vital skill, it’s now a niche interest for radio enthusiasts.
Pigeon Racing: This competitive sport had its heyday in the 19th and early 20th centuries but is now largely forgotten.
Playing Bridge: This is a game you only see the older folks play. Back in the day, there used to be regional and national tournaments, but nowadays it is a much-forgotten card game.
I've always loved crafting, but if there’s one thing I could never quite master, it’s bow-making. I even bought a bow maker, hoping it would work some magic—but nope, it only added to my frustration! Back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, big, decorative bows were all the rage for crafts and wreaths, but for me, the charm of them eventually faded.
The Comeback Kids
In recent years, many old-school hobbies have found new life, thanks to trends like slow living, mindfulness, and a desire to disconnect from screens. Here are a few making a splash:
Sewing and Knitting: These crafts have transformed from “grandma” activities to Instagram-worthy pastimes, fueled by a love of handmade, sustainable fashion.
Bread-Making: The pandemic turned many of us into amateur bakers, and sourdough starters became everyone’s best friend.
Journaling: Whether it’s bullet journaling or gratitude journaling, putting pen to paper has never been more popular.
Vinyl Record Collecting: Music lovers are swapping digital playlists for the crackle of vintage records.
Each of these hobbies connects us to a slower, more intentional way of living—something we all seem to be craving.
The Future of Hobbies
What’s next for hobbies? As technology continues to evolve, we’re seeing trends like urban gardening, 3D printing, and even digital detox retreats gain traction. At the same time, sustainability is shaping how we approach leisure activities. DIY projects, upcycling, and eco-conscious crafting are bound to grow in popularity.
It’s exciting to think about how our hobbies will continue to adapt, reflecting the world around us while keeping us connected to our creative and curious sides.
The beauty of hobbies lies in their ability to grow with us. Whether you’re picking up a needle and thread like your ancestors or diving into a modern-day trend like 3D printing, hobbies offer a chance to slow down, recharge, and rediscover joy. So why not embrace something new (or old!) today? Who knows—you might just uncover a passion that’s been waiting to resurface.
Share a hobby you love, or are curious to learn more about!
There’s a whole world of cozy, soul-soothing moments waiting to be discovered, and we’re here to help you find them—one delightful box at a time. Imagine unboxing a curated experience that invites you to slow down, indulge in small luxuries, and fully savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether it’s exploring a new hobby, enjoying meaningful time with loved ones, or carving out quiet moments just for yourself, we’re here to make it effortless. If you’re not already part of our cozy corner online, come join us! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for inspiration, ideas, and a peek at the joy that awaits.
At Simple Joy Box, we believe in the beauty of slowing down and embracing life’s little joys. Each month, we deliver a thoughtfully curated experience designed to help you relax, recharge, and reconnect—with yourself and those around you. From self-care rituals that nourish your well-being to cozy touches that spark creativity, our boxes make slowing down feel both easy and rewarding. Ready to start your slow-living journey? Visit our website to explore more, and don’t forget to join our email list—you’ll be the first to hear about new ideas, fresh experiences, and ways to find joy every day.
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