[2118]from "AS"-- 4 July 2010:

Until recently, the largest jigsaw I'd ever done was 2,000 pieces. But lately, I've been getting into the larger 5,000+ piece jigsaws. So that got me wondering about when these larger ones were first manufactured. So my question is: do you know when the first 5,000 piece jigsaw was manufactured? By who and what of?

"AS" ***************
from Jim McW -- 18 July 2010:

Great question! We would like to open this topic to all contributors, especially since we seldom attempt any puzzle over 1500 pieces.
We assume, first of all, that the question, for most people, pertains to cardboard puzzles, not wooden. I have no doubt that wealthy patrons have occasionally commissioned wooden puzzles of larger dimensions and more pieces, from almost the earliest days of wooden puzzle cutting, and almost certainly by some time in the early 20th century.
As for cardboard puzzles [of 5000 pieces or more], I suspect that their introduction to the market required the development of new, more capacious manufacturing equipment. We believe this equipment was becoming available by the 1960's or 1970's. However, we suspect (and can find no specific prior releases) the first mass-produced puzzles of 5000 (or more) pieces were mainly produced after 1990.

Can anyone produce evidence of earlier 5000-piece puzzles?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2119]from "JE"-- 6 July 2010:

Hello there. I have recently had some puzzles donated to us and come across some that appear to be very old. Is there simply no date on a puzzle? I have searched everywhere. I would like to describe the puzzles to you. If you are not interested in this, please respond to my first question now and save your time for something more important and I will completely understand.

The first puzzle comes in a square can. It is by Whitman Publishing Co. There are two numbers on the box. No. 4610 and Series No. 203 it also says Title: Fall Pasture. It is a scene of a farmhouse in the background and two horses inside a fence in the foreground. Across the top of the can it says NEW Deluxe Guild.

The second puzzle is called, “The Shape” Adult Puzzle. It is by Fairchild and it is of a baby. I am guessing that it is in the actual shape of the baby, that is siting up with a bottle in hand and a bonnet on her head. It is quite hilarious, really.

Any light to shed? It would be most appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.

Sincerely,

"JE" ***************
from Jim McW -- 18 July 2010:

If you click on our WHITMAN page, you will find there, just under the first paragraph, a link for Chris McCann's COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF TITLES BY BRAND NAME.
If you follow that link through the list, until you get to page 17, you will find what I believe is that series, with a very similar puzzle illustrated. Unfortunaely, few, if any, of those series bore dates of publication on the boxes or canisters. Based on general style, I would estimate late 1950's to early 1960's.

As for the FAIRCHILD SHAPE puzzle, here's a picture from our files of one which may be similar to yours (different theme):
The SHAPE, football game, by FAIRCHILD

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2120]from "MS"-- 11 May 2010:

I have some Springbok updates: Some of the Springbok Ambassador 4600 series of mini puzzles are listed on another site, but these [titles] are not:
1983 "Rose Petal Place"
1982 "Shirt Tales Pandy Panda"
1982 "Shirt Tales Nutty N Nice"

Springbok mini series, PZL7224, "Merry Kitmas!", is a mini version of "Christmas Kittens".

Springbok Ambassador mini series puzzles not listed on the other site include:
1984 732K "Yuletide Yummies" (Is a mini version of "Merry Crispness")
1981 331M "It's Easy to Get the Show On the Road Once You Get Your Act Together"
1981 "Stand By Your Frog"
1981 "I Don't Deserve the Best, I Deserve Much Better".

Springbok Ambassador series puzzles not listed on the other site are:
1985 "Murder In Disguise"
1984 410K "The Sky Is the Limit"
1985 421P "Pizza, Not Just For Carryout Anymore!"

Springbok mini mystery puzzle series puzzles have 110 pieces & include:
1976 CKE63 "Mystery of the Silver Dragon"
1977 CKE73 "Search For the Flying Saucer"

"MS" ***************
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[2121]from "BC"-- 1 August 2010:

Hi

I am trying to find out some history on my Jimmy Caulty "Lord of the Rings" jigsaw. It was made in the 1970's and has a peice missing, I have read that Caulty sometimes deliberately made jigsaws with a piece missing, do you know if this is the case for this jigsaw? Also I would like to find out if its worth anything. It was made by MISCELLANIA and I can't find anything out about them, have you heard about them? Can't seem to find this jigsaw anywhere on any sites, so don't know if its rare. The picture is common. Any details you have about this would be really helpful.
thanks

"BC"***************
from Jim McW -- 25 September 2010:

Can anyone give us pertinent information?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2122]from "NG"-- 20 August 2010:

Hi,
Thanks to your site, I did find one of the puzzles of my childhood -- the Springbok Western Birds one.
But there's a couple others I've been having trouble with.
One was, I believe, a picture of Disney's Seven Dwarves in their mine. This one may have been in a sort of book or frame.
The other was a scene of Paris: a mod-ish painting, not a photograph, done in primary colors and in a style where each colored shape was outlined in black (rather Mondrian-like, except that it wasn't all straight lines). It had Notre Dame on the one side and the Eiffel tower on the other. There was a border of little tree-like shapes. I seem to recall the name as being Springtime in Paris, but I have failed to find any puzzle by that name,
The kicker is that one of these (and I don't remember which!) was a two-sided puzzle where the reverse was a photograph of a Unicorn in Captivity tapestry.

Any help is appreciated.

"NG"***************
from Jim McW -- 25 September 2010:

Can anyone give us pertinent information?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
Respond or comment (note inquiry number)

[2123]from "MC"-- 29 August 2010:

Hello
Wonder if you can help me , please?

I have been gifted a gorgeous puzzle - 'Good-Win' Golden Casket Jigsaw' ' over 400 pieces' and the one I have being number 2 in a short series of 4 : 'Costumes Through the Ages' Charles II 1649-1685

I do collect but am well and truly stumped as to its origin! There is an ovoid logo ( pale red background) on the side depicting a runner in vest and shorts and a Number 1 label on his chest, broaching the Tape.

All help appreciated !

"MC"
" Charles II, 1649-1685 ", GOOD-WIN, COSTUMES THROUGH THE AGES ***************
from Jim McW -- 25 September 2010:

We are aware of a GOOD-WIN series of this title, including the following individual titles:
Elizabeth, 1558-1603
Charles II, 1649-1685
George III, 1760-1820

Can anyone give us more information?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
Respond or comment (note inquiry number)

[2124]from "L6"-- 6 September 2010:

Can dry borax damage the printed sides of cardboard puzzle pieces?
I have a collection of vintage cardboard jigsaw puzzles that were stored in the same closet as some items that got moldy. There isn't any mold actually growing on the puzzles, but I'm very allergic so I want to clean and then protect them from any future mold. I've read on this site about using Febreze or Tilex, but book conservators and mold remediators don't recommend using liquids on paper and claim that these cleaning products don't prevent regrowth. I imagine it would be the same for cardboard puzzles, and besides, just hiding mildew odors doesn't stop me from being allergic. Because many remediators claim that borax solution left on moldy items does prevent regrowth, I'm thinking of putting the puzzles into ziploc bags with a little borax powder for storage. (Picture "Shake-and-Bake" for puzzles.) Is the dry borax likely to damage the printed sides of my pieces, though?

Thanks for your help.

"L6" ***************
from Jim McW -- 25 September 2010:

Since we are not experts in paper conservation, nor in chemistry, we can hardly give a useful opinion. The question seems to be two-fold, 1) how do you protect your puzzles, and, 2)how do you protect your own health? Since we have to assume that the preventive power of borax powder is unproven, we have to urge caution, in favor of your health.

Can anyone give us more information or opinions?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2125]from "KP"-- 14 July 2010:

Hello! My name is _____.
I found the information you had on your site very helpful but I still don't know what category of Whitman Publishing Company Puzzles my two puzzles fit in. I was also wondering if you knew a time range for them.

They are die cut cardboard.

The first is titled: Religious Picture Puzzles.
It has 2 puzzles one of Joseph and Mary the other is of Jesus.
The Number on the bottom with the Whitman Publishing info is # 3050

The Second is titled: Picture Puzzles of 3 Famous Americans: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson
There are 3 puzzles one of each George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Thomas Jefferson
The Number on the bottom is # 3069

I was curious if you had any idea about these puzzles.

Thank You so much for your time and interest!

"KP" ***************
from Jim McW -- 9 November 2010:

we are not familiar with these particular series, which would explain why we haven't listed them. WHITMAN had many series of puzzles over the years, not all of which are listed on our site.

Can any of our readers provide more information about these puzzles or series?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2126]from "R30"-- 30 August 2010:

Golden Miniature Wood Puzzle, Unicorn Fantasy, ISBN 0-307-24754-6

Hi,

I've had this puzzle for the last 20 years at least. I'm trying to find the history or rest of the series. It's still in it's original packaging and the series listed is:

waterwheel
mare and colt
space shuttle
anchors aweigh
unicorn fantasy
hot air balloon
stained glass
whistler's mother

Can you provide me with info or connect me to who may be able to?

Thanks & best regards,

"R30" ***************
from Jim McW -- 9 November 2010:

we do not recognize this series, from the information you give us.

Does this sound familiar to anyone out there?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2127]from "OM"-- 18 October 2010:

Hi,
I just had a thought about puzzle buyers, and I was wondering if you could help me. I am a relatively amateur and new puzzler, and currently just do 1000p jigsaw puzzles. But I was curious, who does puzzles, what age group etc. Do you have any ideas?

Thanks

"OM" ***************
from Jim McW -- 9 November 2010:

We have no precise information or statistics, but we suspect that puzzles are appealing to all ages and most types of people. Our sense is that most people find at least some interest in jigsaw puzzles, at some time in their lives. I enjoyed jigsaw puzzles when I was young, then forgot about them for a few years while I was in college and military service. Eventually, though, as I matured, I remembered the fun of working on a jigsaw puzzle, with family members, just enjoying being together and doing something pleasant together. The same kind of pleasure can be enjoyed on a spring picnic or a walk in the park, but not when it's raining!

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2128]from "BE"-- 15 November 2010:

Hello, Just trying to find out the manufacturing years of the following HG Toys Puzzle's. Hopefully you can assist me. They are as follows: #429 (Storyland) Sleeping Beauty 10"X14" Rectangular - #431 Snow White 12" Round #432 Rumpelstiltskin 12" Round and #433 Pied Piper 12" Round. I have these puzzels with the Canisters. I have not taken the time yet to put them together, so I do not know if they are complete.
Thank You in advance

"BE" ***************
from Jim McW -- 29 November 2010:

We have never found exact year of issue for these series, that I recall. In fact, I think it is possible that at least some of the HG canister puzzles were distributed over several years. See no. 1974, Page 117.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2129]from "BW"-- 24 November 2010:

My grandparents used to make puzzles during the'20's and '30's I believe. Their name was Hamblet, and I noticed someone inquiring about a Jigette picture puzzle from Hamblet Studios, Inc. I bought the book Jigsaw Puzzles by Anne Williams to see if I could find out more about a possible connection to my family, but no luck.

We have one remaining family puzzle, made of wood pieces. The picture reminds me of an English countryside cottage and garden. The riot of colors is very vivid and varied. If you know anything more about puzzles made by any "Hamblet", I would really appreciate knowing about it!

Thank you for your help.

"BW" ***************
from Jim McW -- 29 November 2010:

There are Q&A's about Hamblet Studios in no. 1016, on Page 67, and no. 1228, on Page 78. Anne Williams does indicate that they produced both hand-cut and die-cut puzzles, during the 1930's. I can find no other information, at present, about the Hamblet Studios.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2130]from "KW"-- 12 November 2010:

I would like to make a mounting frame for my grandson's 2x3 48 piece Dinosaur puzzle (and also for his 4 foot one) that can be a picture framed and that he can hang on the wall that the puzzle pieces can be removed so that he can work the puzzle over and over again. Is there a tacky adhesive that would work? I thought about using a felt board and velcro. Or paint back surface of puzzle pieces with rough paint.

Any ideas?? This is my grandson's 4th Birthday, and his room is decorated in Dinosaurs. I thought this would make easy storage and a nice decoration to his room.

Thanks for your attention,

"KW" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

We have long had a brief discussion on framing on our FAQ page, along with some links to other, related posts on our site. We don't frame puzzles, so we have little or no knowledge or experience on this matter.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2131]from "DJL"-- 24 November 2010:

I found a puzzle, and was wondering if you could tell me some information about it "date made, history,etc."
your site was the only place i could find any info. about this puzzle and I was interested in what era it may have come from.
I found it listed here on your site here [Page 9 of 20, Comprehensive List of Whitman Titles, by Chris McCann]. The puzzle is the 300-U PEACEFUL JUNIATA VALLEY #3. Here is a photo....
" Peaceful Juniata Valley ", WHITMAN GUILD

Thanks for your help.

"DJL" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

The Comprehensive List of Whitman Titles is the work of Chris McCann, so we take no credit for it, except the honor of providing the public access to it on our site, at his request.
We are not aware of precise dating on the GUILD series, but our own guess would be late 1940's or 1950's.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2132]from "T28"-- 24 November 2010:

Hello,

I was reading your site and wondering if you knew the history of this family heirloom (below)? It was given to me in 1955, I think. It used to be housed in a deep pale blue Waddington's box that hasn't survived.

At that time, it was already a few years old as it was considered a little too complex to give as a gift to a 5-year old. I have done the puzzle many, many times with lots of fond memories. Any direction/suggestion you could provide would be much appreciated.
" Royal Britain ", WADDINGTONS [?]

Thank you.

"T28" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

We don't remember seeing this puzzle before. Can anyone give us more information about this puzzle or the map upon which it is based?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2133]from "BH"-- 2 December 2010:

Dear Friends, I recently found your web site and would like to commend you for providing such a great resource for jigsaw puzzle fans.
I have an unusual jigsaw puzzle which I received as a gift in 1958. Since I have never seen this type of puzzle discussed or posted anywhere on the Web, I thought I'd send you a photo in case you're familiar with it.
The title of this puzzle from the box lid (which I no longer have) read, "Jaymar 3-Dimensional Jigsaw Puzzle - Featuring Scenic Niagara Falls - Large Interlocking Pieces Little Fingers Can Handle." (Printed in blue at the top of the puzzle itself is "Jaymar Specialty Co. 200 Fifth Ave. New York." There's no item number on the puzzle.) This is an 80 piece, 18" x 18" puzzle which when completed looks rather strange. But when you view it with the 3-D glasses that came with it, it provides a nice black and white 3-D photograph of visitors viewing Niagara Falls from an overlook, with the Peace Bridge in the background. (As you can see in the photograph, my 3-D glasses are rather worn, but they still work.)

I was wondering if this might have been one of a 3-D series that Jaymar produced. I've never seen another one.

" 3-D Niagara Falls ", JAYMAR

Sincerely,

"BH" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

We don't remember seeing this puzzle before. For other references to 3-D puzzles, see no. 81, on Page 7, and no. 829 on Page 57.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
Respond or comment (note inquiry number)

[2134]from "KL"-- 22 December 2010:

Merry Christmas!

This is in response to no. 1363, Page 85 [from "DG"--24 November 2004].

I colored and own this puzzle. Our family has assembled it every Christmas. Currently, it takes a couple hours. The picture you posted is a colored version of the puzzle requested. Yet, it is not the same as the colored portion on the puzzle box; Santa has blue jeans. Maybe the one you pictured was the winner! I purchased it from Carson-Pirie-Scott in 1985 at their third floor 'dock sale' at Lakehurst Mall in Waukegan, Illinois. I am also seeking another.

Here is the info from the box: (c)1984 Great American Puzzle Factory, 230 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' Jigsaw Puzzle by Chris Davenport, Over 1000 pieces, puzzle size about 20" x 27", Made in U.S.A. There was a coloring contest which ended Feb 10, 1985. I would love more information.

"KL" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

We didn't realize there was a contest connected with this puzzle. It may be possible to find one of these on popular on-line auction sites. See no. 1363, Page 85, for the original question. Here's the picture:
" Visions of Sugarplums ", by Chris Davenport, AMERICAN PUBLISHING COMPANY TM, 550 pieces, 1987.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2135]from "CF"-- 22 December 2010:

Hi:

Regarding GALLES puzzles, which on your Q&A page 56, references that these were in a lending library, I have some additional information.
I have a few such puzzles and they have borrowers name lists inside and the ones I have/had include a stamp on the box outside of "THE VILLAGE SHOPPE - 5550 Main St. - Williamsville, N.Y.", making me believe the The Village Shoppe was also a 'lender'. I recall that many names are oldtime Williamsville names as well. Rental seemed to be 5cts per day.

Thanks,

"CF" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 January 2011:

See no. 805, Page 56.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2136]from "MR"-- 18 January 2011:

Hi:

Back in 1903(?) Teddy Roosevelt took a fleet of white-painted ships around the world, showing off the US's military might.

I have the puzzle. It's a 50-piece color, non-interlocking puzzle. The finished puzzle is 2 pieces high and 25 pieces wide. It shows the ships all in a row with their names in red letters over each. It was evidently a picture from a port somewhere.
It's copyright 1907 by W.N. Jennings Company, Philadelphia PA. The box (in rather tatty shape) says:
Round-the-World Fleet
U.S. Battleships

Assemble it at Hampton
Roads, Va.

Any ideas?

Thanks for any info you can share.

"MR"***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

We are not familiar with such a puzzle. You don't say whether it is made of cardboard or wood. Does anyone have any information about the puzzle or the maker?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2137]from "LZ"-- 22 January 2011:

I am looking for a specific jigsaw puzzle with a picture of a female sailor in the fore-ground and an american flag in the background. I know that it part of a series of puzzles that are about the different branches of the military. I've been searching for this puzzle for a while. If anyone knows where I can purchase it I would be greatly appreciative of that info. Thank you so much.

"LZ"***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

Can you give us an idea of approximately when it might have been made?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2138]from "DH"-- 22 January 2011:

RE: Elspeth Eagle-Clark - The Elfin Puzzle (6026/33)
Dear Puzzle People
I have inherited the above jigsaw from my late mother.
I remember playing with it as a child but had forgotten all about it until re-discovering the pieces in a 1960’s Pifco Princess Hairdryer box.
Unfortunately the original box (and picture) are lost and I am unable to complete the puzzle without it.
I do not even know if I have all the pieces.
Please can anyone advise on the number of pieces there should be and/or provide a copy of the finished article?

Many thanks,

"DH"***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

See no. 1163, Page 75; no. 1583, Page 99; and no. 1766, Page 108 for more discussion. The latter includes a photo which may be of some help to you. We regard these as being rather scarce, and highly prized.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2139]from "S&CR"-- 25 January 2011:

Hello,
I recently acquired 2 tray puzzles recently - each is 14 pieces. The puzzles are of 'Jack and Jill' and 'Mary, Mary'. [In] the lower left hand corner it is signed Ethel Hays (a printed signature). The lower right hand corner has S.P. Co. and beneath that is #7478.

I have done a lot of research, and I know Ethel Hays was an artist for the Saalfield Publishing Company between the 40’s and 50’s. My question is, did Saalfield Publishing use the S.P. Co. ?

Thank You,

"S&CR"***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

I think it highly likely this is an abbreviation for SAALFIELD PUBLISHING CO.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2140]from "GS"-- 26 January 2011:

Hi,
Can you possibly identify the attached Big Ben 1500 piece puzzle? We worked on it while on a cruise recently (VERY difficult). I haven't been able to locate it on the internet. It may be a recent issue, as it was new out of an unopened box. There was no puzzle name or identification on the box.
It's possible that the librarian bought it at a Carribean port, if that would make a difference.

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

"GS", Ohio

kids playing in the snow, unknown title, artist, MB BIG BEN.***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

This type is unknown to us. Can anyone shed any light on this puzzle, its approximate date, or the artwork?

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2141]from "SF"-- 1 February 2011:

My parents recently bought a vintage Built Rite Puzzle. Printed on the puzzle is the title “work well done”. It is a paragon 1000 piece puzzle. However they are missing pieces and since it is an old puzzle, they can’t find a replacement. I have searched your site and cannot find the puzzle. There is a man on a white horse with a red face. It is drinking from a stream and in the background is a herd of cattle also drinking. (if that helps, any) If the information my father gave me is correct, he says it is model number 1,000. But my findings come up empty.

I would like to reorder this puzzle, if possible so we can complete it.

Any information will be very helpful.

Thank you

"SF" ***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

I think this may be a picture of a similar puzzle:

"Work Well Done ", unknown artist, Built Rite.
I don't think we have this puzzle in our collection. I would guess that this was published between 1945 and 1959.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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[2142]from "BC"-- 15 February 2011:

Curious what the age of puzzle would be?

Hi, I recently purchased a wooden simplex puzzle at a thrift shop. It has 3 rows with cut pieces. Under each piece is the name of the picture on the puzzle piece, I.e. doll, house. It has 3 rows with 5 pieces per row. Each piece has a red (I think) plastic pull to get the piece out. It’s 12 inches wide and 8 inches tall. I was just curious of the age. It’s a really cool puzzle, and I have lots of grand babies who will love playing with it. Thanks for your help. Happy Valentines Day.

Regards.

"BC"***************
from Jim McW -- 1 May 2011:

See no. 1441, Page 90 for some possibly helpful discussion.

Thanks, Jim McW
***************
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