Happy According to Hoyle Day, card lovers! Celebrated every August 29—marking the passing of Edmund Hoyle in 1769—this day honors the man who gave us the rules for fair and exciting gameplay. Known as the "Father of Whist," Hoyle standardized card games with his 1742 book, A Short Treatise on the Game of Whist, ensuring everyone could play by the same trusted rules and inspiring the phrase “according to Hoyle.”
Hoyle’s influence didn’t stop with his rulebooks. His name became synonymous with quality playing cards when Brown & Bigelow, a Saint Paul, Minnesota-based company, began producing Hoyle-branded decks in 1927. These decks, featuring iconic designs like the shell back and the distinctive Hoyle joker with its optical illusion face, were crafted for durability and clarity, perfect for games like whist, poker, and bridge. Often packaged with rule booklets inspired by Hoyle’s works, these cards became a staple for players seeking an authentic gaming experience. In 2001, the United States Playing Card Company acquired the Hoyle brand, continuing its legacy with both classic and modern designs. Today, Hoyle playing cards remain a symbol of tradition, tied directly to the man who codified card game rules.
This August 29, 2025, let’s celebrate by brushing up on Hoyle’s classics like whist, poker, or backgammon. Gather friends, deal the cards, and play “according to Hoyle” for a night of authentic fun. At ClassicDecks.com, we’re counting down to our launch, where we’ll unveil a stunning collection of decks inspired by the timeless games Hoyle championed and the quality of Hoyle-branded cards. From vintage-inspired designs to modern twists, our upcoming lineup will elevate your game nights.
Want to prep for the big day? Check out a free PDF of Hoyle’s original rules from historical archives and practice your skills. Share your favorite Hoyle-inspired game moments in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your rule-abiding triumphs! Stay tuned for ClassicDecks.com’s launch and get ready to deal the fun with decks that honor Hoyle’s enduring legacy.