It can really be difficult trying to find that perfect gifts for history buffs when they just seem to have everything. From old books to rare artifacts or documentaries, often the things history enthusiasts need are those not easily found. Worry not, however; there are plenty of surprising and unique gifts in store for them that will once again reignite their passion for the past. Are you looking for some creative gift ideas? Then, keep reading for the inspiration. Here are some unusual gift ideas for history buffs who have all of everything.
Personalised Historical Maps
One of the most thoughtful things you could give to a history buff is a personal historical map. These customized maps will often allow you to select the region and time frame of choice, which turns geography into a work of art. Whether it is an old map of their hometown, the very first historic battle site, or a favorite vacation location, these customized maps break out the nostalgia and excitement. In a study or living room with a frame, it forms an eternal piece of decoration.
You can even go further to get maps on what the world looks like at the pivotal moment in history, like the height of the Roman Empire or the Age of Exploration. These will not only be decorative but also educational, so they are ideal for a gift for a history enthusiast.
Historical Subscription Boxes
The subscription boxes have gained popularity very recently, and are a great gift for someone who would really appreciate something new each month. There are quite a few history-themed subscription boxes that bring the pleasure of getting historically-themed items to your doorstep. Some such packages contain, for instance, vintage-style souvenirs, educational material, or artifacts.
A history-themed subscription box lets a recipient learn about different eras, cultures, and moments in time without having to leave their home. Every month, they will eagerly look forward to learning something new about history, which is a gift that keeps on giving.
Reproduction Antiques
Of course, actual historical artifacts are way beyond the purse of most givers; however, decent-quality reproductions of artifacts are a great, if not equally intriguing, alternative. Replicas run the gamut from ancient Greek coins and Roman helmets to medieval swords and Egyptian relics. They can be something almost tangible related to the past or will serve as wonderful inlays for any history-lover’s home.
The beauty of reproduction artifacts is that they can be as engaging and educational as the originals, but without the price tag or ethical concerns that sometimes accompany actual artifacts. Seek out reproductions that have been crafted to closely match the detail and authenticity of the original items.
Historical Fiction Books
While many history enthusiasts have extensive, diverse lists of books on non-fiction material related to history, historical fiction is a different way of illuminating the world through the work of storytelling about the past. For the most part, history fans discover that novels with historical content bring events, personalities, and ages to life in a rather unforgettable way. A well-crafted novel, for example, can transport people to other eras or evoke sensations that people believe they are actually living through history.
There are a few popular historical fiction genres too, for example, novels over World War II, ancient civilizations, medieval times, and the Renaissance. Be it a critically acclaimed bestseller or an under-the-radar novel, a history enthusiast would definitely fall in love with historical fiction.
Museum Memberships
For a history buff with an already highly comprehensive library of books, relics, and documentaries, membership to a local museum might be a wonderful experience-based gift. Most museums grant all members special benefits such as unlimited admission, invitations to exclusive events, behind-the-scenes tours, and access to members-only lectures or exhibits.
Whether it’s a history museum membership, an art museum with historical gifts exhibits, or even a living history park, this gift affords endless possibilities for exploring. It’s also a way for them to dive deeper into specific time periods or cultures while having an interactive experience.
Historical-Themed Puzzles
Recently, puzzles have increasingly become popular as an entertaining yet mind-healing activity. Historically-themed puzzles are fantastic entertainment for history lovers; designs and pictures about the history of landmarks, famous battles, or maps would occupy hours with the curiosity of historical facts that can be learned while finishing off a puzzle of a medieval castle or a World War II battlefield.
Most are accompanied by informative booklets on related educational topics, making this a fun experience, too. You can even frame them upon completion as a beautifully intellectual piece of decor.
Historical Cooking Kits
A historically themed cooking kit is a wonderful gift for both history buffs and home cooks as it will make for an intriguing, hands-on type of experience. It comes equipped with everything needed to rediscover traditional recipes from nearly all ages- medieval feasts, ancient Roman deals for a banquet, and dishes from colonial America. Such kits contain elaborate ingredients detailed with instructions and historical context, making for a unique aspect of studying the culinary side of history.
With the experience of recipes from the past, your history enthusiast will truly indulge in an experiential and tasty experience and learn not just about flavors but also about the cultural and social aspects of the period.
Vintage Postcards and Letters
For the history buff who loves the personal side of history, old postcards, and letters make for some very unique and poignant presents. For the most part inexpensive, such artifacts reveal the aspect of ordinary lives and, indeed, the minds of past persons. Whether soldiers penned them during wartime or by travelers at the very dawn of the twentieth century, these personal artifacts bring history to life in ways that reading books and watching documentaries simply cannot.
Framing these postcards or letters or putting them in a scrapbook will turn them into a precious souvenir. This will make an authentic experience available to your loved one about the past.
Conclusion
Finding a gift for a history buff who seems to have it all doesn’t have to be an impossible task. Surprising the one you love through outside-the-box thinking and the use of unique historically-themed gift ideas can become a delightful surprise. Personalized historical maps, antique reproduction artifacts, and museum memberships are great in this regard, as thoughtful gifts will undoubtedly stir up their imagination and thereby bring them closer to the past.
