In North America, "Solitaire" almost always refers to the variant known as Klondike. But why is this game named after a remote region in the Yukon territory of Canada? While many believe the game was invented by weary miners during the Gold Rush of 1896, the truth is more complex and far more interesting.
The 1896 Gold Rush Connection
The Klondike Gold Rush began in 1896 when gold was discovered in Rabbit Creek. Over 100,000 prospectors migrated to the Yukon. During the long, dark sub-arctic winters, playing cards were one of the few forms of entertainment available in mining camps.
Survival of the Luckiest
The specific variant of "Patience" played in these camps supposedly involved a gambling element. Miners would "buy" a deck for $50 and receive $5 back for every card they moved to the foundation. This high-stakes environment helped cement the "Klondike" name in popular culture.
| Era | Region | Common Name |
|---|---|---|
| Late 1700s | Europe | Patience / Cabale |
| 1890s | USA / Canada | Klondike / Canfield |
| 1990s | Global | Microsoft Solitaire |
Naming Confusion: Klondike vs. Canfield
For decades, there has been a significant naming conflict. What most people call "Klondike" today was originally called "Canfield" in some circles, named after Richard Canfield, a famous casino owner.
The Hoyle Standard
The 1907 edition of Hoyle's Games was the first to officially use the name "Klondike" for the variant we play today. By the time the name appeared in print, the Gold Rush was over, but the rugged, adventurous branding of the Yukon remained powerful for marketing the game.
Evolution of the Rules
The original "miners' version" of the game was significantly harder than the modern "Turn One" variant.
- Single Pass: Historically, you were only allowed one pass through the deck. If you got stuck, the game was over.
- Draw Three: The "Turn Three" variant was the standard for competitive play, making victories rare and highly prized.
- The Modern Shift: Turn One with unlimited passes gained popularity in the digital era, prioritizing user satisfaction and casual play.
Why the Name Endures
Even though modern players aren't search for gold in the Yukon, the name Klondike evokes a sense of discovery and reward. Each revealed card in the tableau is a small "nugget" of progress toward the ultimate win.
Did You Know?
- Regional Names: In the UK, Klondike is still widely referred to as "Patience" or "American Patience."
- Casino Origins: In the early 20th century, Klondike was a popular casino game before it transitioned into a home pastime.
- The $50 Deck: The original gambling math meant you needed to move 11 cards to the foundation just to break even!
Find Your Own Gold
You don't need to be a 19th-century miner to enjoy a game of Klondike. Start a new game today.