Jack in the Box

A jack-in-the-box is a children's toy that outwardly consists of a box with a crank. When the crank is turned, it plays out a melody, often Pop Goes the Weasel. At the end of the tune, the lid pops open and a figure of some sort, usually a clown, pops out of the box. more...

Origin of Toy

One theory as to the origin of the jack-in-the-box is that it comes from the 13th century English prelate Sir John Schorne who is often pictured holding a boot with a devil in it. It is believed in folklore that he once cast the devil into a boot to protect the village of North Marston in Buckinghamshire.

Historian/Journalist Pete Patterson(Of the Fubar News Network.) believes there's a much more controversial history behind the toy. According to his article (found here) "The original Jacks weren’t actually clowns, but instead runaway slaves ("Jacks" in slang.) The first Jack in a box was actually a live captured runaway slave in a wooden box. Often times children playing where they shouldn't, would jam sharpened wooden sticks though the knotholes of the boxes. In reaction the "Jack" inside would yelp, and often times bust though the top of the box..... In 1832 a young music box maker, John Schorne, inspired by his childhood antics, began hand crafting and selling Jack in The Boxes. The simple music box would cranked and POP out came a crudely crafted black man on a spring. The idea quickly took off as one of the first novelty gifts."

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