Bouncy Castles are known by many names depending on what part of the world you come from. Bounce House, Moon Walk, Jolly Jump, these are a few English names for these inflatable toys. Latinos call them Brinca Brinca, which means Jump Jump in Spanish. As fun and as popular as these toys are with kids around the world, you may wonder who invented them. Whether or not there are any Bouncy Castle historians out there is not known to us here at Blackpool Bounce. The information on the subject we found on-line is a bit thin, but we thought we’d share it with you anyway as inflatables are quite popular in the UK.
A man named John Scurlock is credited with the creation of the first inflatable. Scurlock, who lived in the southern US state of Louisiana, was reportedly experimenting with ideas for inflatable tennis court covers when inspiration struck. Supposedly, Scurlock witnessed one of his employees enjoying a jump on one of his tennis court covers. Instead of firing the man, which we don’t think he did but he might have, he used the idea to develop an inflatable bouncy toy. Scurlock also developed safety cushions for use in fire and rescue operations.
Scurlock started manufacturing his inflatables in New Orleans in the 1960s. Along with his wife he started renting them out later that decade. In the mid 1970s they built a facility to make and rent their bouncy products for children’s birthday and school parties, picnics, fairs and fetes. The Scurlock’s son expanded the rental business throughout the US and opened a inflatable theme park in 1986.
There have been many safety improvements to the Bouncy Castle over the years. Pirate and Princess themes, Disco Domes, Fun Runs and inflatable obstacle courses can now be hired to entertain both children and adults.
If you would like to learn more about the inflatable toys or soft play sets available from Blackpool Bounce, give us a ring today. We can help make your next garden party one your young guests will never forget. We serve the areas of Blackpool, Lytham, St. Anne’s and Preston. Don’t let nasty weather run your event. We can provide a list of indoor vendors who we’ve recommended in the past. Rain or shine the party must go on!
<< Return to news