Roller skating is a popular pastime for many adults and children.
Legend has it that the first roller skates were used in a London stage play in 1743. Living in the city, John Joseph Merlin asserted that he had invented the first skate in 1760.
They were also referenced in the United States’ futile attempt to save gas during World War II by using them to move infantry across Europe.
In 1935, they were popular as a recreational activity in the US, and when disco music skating rinks were constructed in the 1970s, the sport took off.
If you’re older, you may remember those heavy metal skates that grew to accommodate your feet as they changed sizes and fit over your shoes. You might not remember that these skates came with a metal gadget around your neck, though, as the majority of skaters wore it.
Pictures of the copper-colored object are being shared on social media, and many people are guessing that it might be a tool or bottle opener.
It’s a skate key, and if you skated before the 1970s, you probably required one.
You would use the skate key to adjust the size, and your shoe would be attached to the skates.
Since the key fit into the rear of the pair of skates, most people would wear it around their neck to keep it from falling out while skating.
Songs have even been written about this essential skating item.
Do you still have the skate keys? Please share your skating stories with us on our Facebook page.
