HARDWICK – Undoubtedly there have long been puzzles of a limited number of pieces to challenge and entertain people all around the world, but jigsaw puzzles with hundreds of small pieces must have coincided with the invention of the tool itself, either a stationary thin circular band or a hand held up-and-down saw blade, which in turn may have been facilitated by the spread of electricity and electric motors at the end of the 19th century.
In any case, jigsaw puzzles were the focus of the third annual Puzzles for the Pantry party to raise funds for the Hardwick Area Food Pantry last Saturday afternoon in the Fellowship Hall of the United Church of Christ in Greensboro. Tables were set up and a choice of 300 or 500 piece puzzles were offered, many with landscapes or various activities, some more difficult than others. There was a good turnout of 42 people and everyone worked in small groups, which gave a social element to the event that was more fun than assembling a puzzle alone. Delicious home made cookies were popular and a number of valuable door prizes were given out, such as gift certificates from generous local businesses, bottles of wine, maple syrup, comforters, works of art, bird seed and books. Altogether it was a welcome chance to escape from the inevitable cabin fever blues of this time of year and, best news, the jigsaw puzzle party raised $1,667 for the Hardwick Area Food Pantry (plus donations of food). Many volunteers made this event possible.
David K. Rodgers
David K. Rodgers is a writer, mason and card carrying dilettante, who dabbles and babbles in art. He has lived in East Craftsbury for the past 40 years.
