Vintage Photos Of Babies Learning To Walk Using Wicker Walkers, 1900s-1920s

by: Nina Ross
April 7, 2023

Source: Rare Historical Photos

The early 20th century saw the emergence of a new tool to help babies learn to walk – the wicker walker. These vintage photos of babies using wicker walkers from the 1900s-1920s offer a glimpse into a bygone era, where such walkers were widely used as an aid in the development of infants.

Wicker walkers were a popular alternative to the traditional wooden walkers of the time. They were made of wicker, a pliable and lightweight material that was perfect for crafting walkers. The wicker walker typically had a woven basket for the baby to sit in, which was supported by a metal frame with four wheels. The baby could use the walker to move around while learning to walk, and the basket provided a secure and comfortable place for the baby to sit.

One of the notable features of these vintage photos is the diversity of the babies using the wicker walkers. There are photos of babies of different races and nationalities, showing that wicker walkers were not limited to any particular demographic. This is significant because it demonstrates that the use of walkers was a widespread practice that transcended cultural boundaries.

Another interesting aspect of these vintage photos is the clothing and accessories worn by the babies. Most of the babies are dressed in long dresses, bonnets, and socks. The dresses are typically made of lightweight fabric and have a simple design, which allowed the babies to move around freely. The bonnets were an essential accessory for babies during this time, as they protected their delicate skin from the sun and kept their heads warm. The socks, too, were an important part of the baby’s wardrobe, as they provided warmth and comfort for their tiny feet.

The wicker walkers themselves also have a unique design that reflects the craftsmanship of the time. The baskets are intricately woven with a tight pattern that provides a sturdy base for the baby to sit in. The metal frames are usually made of iron and have a simple yet elegant design. The wheels are also a notable feature of these walkers, as they are made of wood and are designed to move smoothly on both carpeted and hard surfaces.

It is fascinating to see how these vintage photos capture the evolution of the wicker walker over time. In the early 1900s, wicker walkers were often used by parents to help their babies learn to walk. However, as time went on, concerns about the safety of these walkers began to emerge. In the 1920s, the American Academy of Pediatrics began to advise against the use of walkers, citing concerns about the risk of injury and delay in motor development. By the 1930s, the use of wicker walkers had declined significantly, and parents began to look for alternative methods to help their babies learn to walk.

Despite the controversy surrounding wicker walkers, these vintage photos offer a unique glimpse into a time when they were widely used as an aid in infant development. The photos capture the joy and excitement of parents as they watched their babies take their first steps with the help of these walkers. They also offer a fascinating look at the fashion and design of the time, from the intricate weaving of the baskets to the simple yet elegant design of the metal frames.

In conclusion, these vintage photos of babies using wicker walkers from the 1900s-1920s offer a unique glimpse into a bygone era. They provide insight into the widespread use of walkers as an aid in infant development, as well as the fashion and design of the time. While the use of walkers may be controversial today, these photos serve as a reminder of the important role that they played in the early 20th century.