The exact origin of billiards is unknown, but most sources trace the game back to 15th century France where the game was played outdoors in a manner similar to croquet. Sometime in the 1500s, the sport was moved indoors and French nobility began to install billiards tables, with green cloth to represent grass, within their residences.

Originally a mace was used to propel the ball, but it was a cumbersome tool and players found it difficult to aim and navigate especially near the rails of the table. The cue was introduced sometime in the late 1600s and only men were allowed to use it at the time. Women were required to continue playing with the mace for the time being as it was assumed that they lacked the control and finesse needed to refrain from damaging the table.

The word billiards comes from the French words for stick and ball. As the game moved across the ocean to the United States, the game was commonly placed in pool rooms for the gamblers to entertain themselves as they awaited outcomes. Pool is a word for collective betting and was used as an umbrella term for horse racing, poker, and other gambling ventures. Eventually the word pool was designated to the game of billiards instead of referring to the gambling itself.

After World War II, people weren’t in the mood for casual frivolities and pool rooms began closing their doors. It was expected that the game would fade into history until a resurgence in the 1960s and 80s. Hollywood brought the game to film and the sport made a triumphant comeback. The sport remains a common pastime both casually and competitively, with no sign of disappearing again any time soon.

If you’re looking to get into the game of billiards, So Cal Pool Tables if the place to be. We offer the lowest prices in the valley and FREE delivery in included with each purchase. Browse our incredible selection and we know you’ll find the perfect addition to your game room.