Cribbage Boards

Cribbage and the ocean have been paired for almost 400 years; a seaside game is nearly a tradition.

For some folks, time by the ocean includes moments on a back deck, a patio, a screened-in porch, or a dining room table accompanied by the casual competition of cribbage: "Fifteen for two, fifteen for four, pair for six." 

Since the goal is to produce functional art, in which someone interacts with the story of the wood and the artwork, a cribbage board is a perfect way of combining the history of the wood and the region with the casual and playful interactions of the game.

The antique wood and the artwork mean that no two cribbage boards are the same

Invented by a British soldier as a tweak to a game called "Noddy", it came to the colonies and was particularly popular in New England. As sailing expanded and whaling led to multi-year expeditions, cribbage was a perfect game. It required only two people, was quick, and men could pass time carving boards from resources such as whale bone or walrus tusks. Given New England's and Cape Cod's maritime and whaling history, it's unsurprising that cribbage would be a local hit.

These cribbage boards are two-player boards, although teams allow for four players as well. Three-player boards can also be done upon request. They're made from antique wood reclaimed from places such as a sea captain's house, a farmhouse near one of the Cape's many harbors, an old general store, or a barn. They're all on antique wood with the character preserved and nautical artwork added, such as a compass, an anchor, a folk art whale, and other options. The origin of the wood is noted on each piece. These can also be hung when not in use, to feature as a piece of local art if desired.

This custom board will be a lakeside focus for casual evenings.

Custom holes for drinks make this a portable party for two.

Custom boards can also be a perfect way to personalize a board for those moments. Partnering with a client on ideas for a house name, holes for drinks, handles, and other features can add to the fun of those games. Whether as a gift or a small accent for a home, it can be a unique way to foster new memories. 

For newbies, it can seem intimidating. But an experienced teacher can get you started, and it isn't too long before you start getting the hang of it. You'll improve over time, and soon enough you'll realize it often comes down to who pegs first on the last round. The pandemic also created a surge of interest so it's not as hard now to find someone who plays and can teach you.

If you're interested in a regular or custom cribbage board, reach out to newenglandgoodlife@gmail.com. While it comes with high quality pegs, it does not guarantees you'll get a 29-point hand!