Description
The goal is to arrange three rectangular wood cards so that each rider is in his/her correct riding position on top of a horse.
We laser etch wood pieces to provide both beauty and durability. Each of the larger cards with the horses is 5" x 2.5" x 1/8". The smaller card with the rider is 5" x 1" x 1/8". The artwork was done by Alexander Plummer and we make them in our Florida shop.
This puzzle has a long history. Puzzle promoter Sam Lloyd invented the "Trick Mules Puzzle" in 1872. Loyd sold the concept to P.T. Barnum (of Barnum and Bailey circus fame), who handed out millions of paper versions to circus-goers under the name "P.T. Barnum's Trick Donkeys." It has since taken on many variations, from clowns on donkeys to witches on black cats, and has delighted generations of puzzle lovers around the world. This variation involves jockeys on horses.
This puzzle is not at all easy and is rarely solved except by those with a good deal of perseverance and insight. I do not include the instructions with the puzzle in case it is accidently viewed by those who may not want to see it; but this link below will allow you to try it electronically and it does provide the solution: http://britton.disted.camosun.bc.ca/jbhorses.htm
This puzzle and puzzle design are registered trademarks of The Sam Loyd Company and used by permission. We appreciate them allowing us to make and share this terrific puzzle.
Level of Difficulty: Level 3