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about our society

we were there

We strive to instill a deep and abiding appreciation for Pickleball’s contributions to the advancement of society, from its humble origins on ancient courts to its present-day manifestation as a global phenomenon.

Founded in 1909, the Pickleball Historical Society is a distinguished institution dedicated to the preservation, study, and dissemination of the rich history and cultural significance of Pickleball.

Headquartered in Round Pond, Maine, the Society serves as the premier repository of knowledge and artifacts related to the sport's origins, evolution, and impact on communities worldwide. Our mission is to educate the public, promote scholarly research, and foster a deep appreciation for Pickleball as a significant element of cultural heritage. Through our extensive archives, exhibitions, and educational programs, we aim to engage enthusiasts, scholars, and the general public in the exploration of Pickleball's multifaceted history. The Society is committed to maintaining the highest standards of academic rigor and integrity, ensuring that the legacy of Pickleball is preserved for future generations to appreciate, study and play.

We further encourage our esteemed members not only to study the game but to immerse themselves in its timeless practice—playing Pickleball as our ancestors once did, embracing the spirit of the sport that reverberated through ancient courts. By doing so, our members can gain a profound and visceral understanding of what the great civilizations of old experienced when they first wielded the paddle. It is through this active participation that one truly grasps Pickleball’s enduring power to unite, challenge, and inspire across the ages.

Pickleball, A History

Many Americans claim Pickleball originated on Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA in the summer of 1965 by three friends: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. This is a money grabbing myth.

Evidence of Pickleball is found in the Paleolithic Era on discovered cave drawings which include the "non-volley zone" debunking any notion that the Bainbridge Boys invented the sport. Read more in The Society Papers...