Billiards date back many centuries, with mentions of a game similar to pool in the writings of Shakespeare as far back as the early 1600s.In fact, the first pool cues were not invented until the late 1600s, so the modern day game, while dating back over 300 years, is not as old as many people would think. At the same time, the basic idea of the game does date back quite far.  The development of modern day games has happened over time, with so many variations on the typical game being created that it’s difficult for even professionals to keep up with ever iteration

Basically a British game from the start, the major improvements on pool tables and the pool cue was quick and constant throughout the early 1800s, making the game an up and coming competitive activity that has turned into an international phenomenon, resulting in worldwide competitions. From the late 1700s through the early 1900s, the dominant game in Britain was played with only 3 balls, while the preferred game in the Americas was a four-ball billiard game with 4 pockets until around 1870

Games played with pool cues such as 15-ball, 8-ball, and straight pool were invented later on, and tournaments of different kinds were played almost annually from 1878 to 1956. Today, people collect the pool cues and antique pool sticks used in these old fashioned games, displaying them as prized showpieces in their game rooms or their billiards businesses.

The size of pool tables has also changed through the years. For example, the 4-pocket table used in the four-ball billiard game popular in the Americas in the 1800s was typically 11-12 feet long. Now, compact tables, which are often found in homes that cannot accommodate full-sized billiard tables, are 7 feet long. On the other hand, professional tables are 9 feet long.

Today, a lot of value is placed on personalized pool cues, as well as perfectly leveled and felted pool tables, as these are considered to be treasures of the trade. Having a unique pool cue is essential to many who feel that they play better using their own equipment. Pool tables are often preferred based on their age and upkeep, including the condition of the felt and the perfection of the level of the table. Often, it is seen as unprofessional to even attempt a game on an uneven pool table. As you can see, pool has a long and rich history, which can make for very interesting reading in its full recollection.