The exact origins of the writing slate remain unclear. References to its use can be found in the fourteenth century and evidence suggests that it was used in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The central time period for the writing slate, however, appears to begin in the later eighteenth century, when developments in sea and land transport permitted the gradual expansion of slate quarrying in Wales and the growth of a substantial slate workshop industry. By the nineteenth century, writing slates were used around the world in nearly every school and were a central part of the slate industry. 
 These writing slates have two writing surfaces, each surface measures 10 1/4in x 7 1/16in. The entire board measures   11 7/8in x 8 3/4in. The frame is made of pine. Every board includes two flat soapstone pencil. They are great for kids learning their ABCs or solving math problems. They also make great little signs. To erase simply wipe board with damp cloth.