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The First Roller Skates
The first documented roller skates were made by John Joseph Merlin, an instrument maker. When first showing off his new invention at a party he ran into and broke a mirror. -
Roller Skates' First Patent
Monsieur Petitbled created his own patented version of the roller skates. His skates were modeled after the ice skate. The skates were known to be difficult when it came to stopping and turning. -
Quad Skates Were Born
James Plimpton created the first pair of skates that had 2 parallel sets of wheels. These skates would become one of the most common skates to use and learn in. -
The First Skating Rink
The fist public roller skating rink was opened in 1866. It was located in New York City by Plimpton. -
The Invention of Ball Bearings
The invention of ball bearings helped improved the use roller skates a ton. Ball bearings reduced friction and allowed the wheels to turn more freely.