Talk: The history of rubber ducks

A Talk About Rubber Ducks

by Dr D Drake (BA HONS Duckology & Quackerlosophy MADRACK)

The rubber duck did not begin as the cheerful bath-time companion we know today. No—its origins are far more sinister, or at least mildly disappointing.

In the 19th century, when rubber first became commercially viable, manufacturers had one clear goal: make things slightly bouncy and vaguely unsettling. Early rubber ducks were not the bright yellow optimists we recognize now, but rather heavy, solid creatures that looked like they had seen things. These ducks did not float. They sank with quiet determination, like Victorian expectations.

Children were handed these dense little waterfowl and told, “Have fun.” The ducks, meanwhile, sat at the bottom of the tub, contemplating existence.

The talk lasts approx 90 minutes with a chance to ask questions at the end. Doors open 20 minutes before the talk start time.