Have you tried contacting the Institute of Education as they have a good archive of teaching materials etc.

If they have a rubber coating wouldn’t be Victorian – guess early 20^th century – as this curious article from 1909 concerns the abolition of school slates (ie. real slate) because of the cost/associated health hazards/it made kids clothes dirty etc: http://www.llechicymru.info/slatesinschools.english.htm

Although rubber was used in the 19^th century I would think it would be too expensive to be used in this way. They would have previously been framed by a wood. Maybe this was a wartime measure (1914-18) when paper would have been short. Then maybe finally disappearing in the 20s and 30s (because probably continued in poor rural areas for some time).

Just a guess but an educated one (excuse the pun)

Liz
_____________________________
Liz Walder
Director
Royal Society of Architects in Wales/ Cymdeithas Frenhinol Penseiri yng Nghymru

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From: List for discussion of issues in museum education in the UK. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Bailey, Rachel
Sent: 24 February 2009 15:04
To: Liz Walder
Subject: Artificial school slates - any ideas

HI Gem

I am trying to catalogue some school slates we have inherited - they appear to be made from thick cardboard with a rubberized black surface coating. Unframed rectangles 30x25cm approx with very rounded corners. I am wondering what era they originate from - before I take a wild stab in the dark - any ideas?

Thanks in anticipation

Rachel

Rachel Bailey

Artefact Librarian

Islington Education Library Service

Bellside House

4 Elthorne Road

London

N19 4AG

Tel: 0207 527 5524

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