The original birthplace of the classic murder mystery board game, Cluedo, is set to become its permanent archive, as a treasure trove of historical items returns to Birmingham.
A Daughter's Legacy Donation
Marcia Lewis, the 72-year-old daughter of the late inventor Anthony Pratt, has personally delivered a significant collection of Cluedo memorabilia to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The donation includes one of the game's first versions, personal letters, and other unique artefacts that chart the creation of a global phenomenon.
Pratt originally devised the game in his Birmingham home kitchen during the Second World War, seeking to alleviate the monotony of blackout evenings. His creation, patented by the company Waddingtons in 1949, would eventually captivate families in over 40 countries worldwide.
Pride in a Cultural Icon
Speaking about her parents' legacy, Marcia Lewis expressed immense pride. "It has become a part of people's culture in 40 countries," she said. "It has brought families together for generations around the Christmas dinner table and all year round." She reflected that her father's primary satisfaction came not from financial gain but from creating decades of joy and entertainment.
The archive reveals fascinating developmental details, including how a key character was altered. The Colonel was renamed Mustard because the original yellow-associated term for cowardice was deemed unsuitable for a military figure.
Unseen Ideas and a Fitting Home
Among the donated papers are letters from Waddingtons and proposals for other games that never reached production. One such concept, titled 'Goldrush' and based on mining minerals, was reportedly rejected for being too similar to Cluedo's gameplay mechanics.
"The archive belongs in Birmingham where it all began," stated Lewis, affirming the city's rightful place as the custodian of this slice of social history. The museum will now prepare the collection for public display, allowing visitors to trace the origins of the iconic game from a Birmingham kitchen to international fame.
