Online users look for answers on old wooden objects that fed clothing to the wind
Long before modern technology, people used inventive tools to complete household chores, such as the wooden clothespin. This simple tool evolved from earlier versions that couldn’t hold onto clothing in the wind, making them a “serious evil to washerwomen.”
A recent online post about finding small wooden dowels with two legs led to a wave of nostalgia from boomers, who identified them as old-school clothespins used for hanging wet clothes to dry outside.
The modern clothespin, with its hinged design and spring mechanism, became popular in the 19th century, thanks to David M. Smith’s 1853 patent. This design improved on earlier versions by ensuring that the pin would stay securely attached to laundry, even in windy conditions.
Although industrialization made clothespins more affordable and plastic versions became common, wooden clothespins remain beloved for their durability, simplicity, and eco-friendly nature. Today, they’re still used for drying clothes and in crafts, evoking a sense of nostalgia and traditional living.
Which is worse—losing socks to the wind or to the dryer? Share your thoughts and memories!
