The use of Lanyards was briefly discussed in “Lanyards, don’t leave home without them” but where did the Lanyards come from? Were they a name that the Greeks invented or just one of those random new words that someone decided to make up (google).
The word Lanyard, Lanyards started a nautical term which was used to hold things down on ships. The beginning uses of this term started shortly before the 1700s. Lanyards made additional appearances in the military. They would be fastened to the pistol belt then wrap around the pistol to keep it in place. It would keep the revolver intact and from falling out and possibly discharging. Lanyards have since been replaced by latches, which cover over the pistol in modern day police and military gun holsters.
The use of Lanyards in the military has evolved from just on the holster to becoming a decorative piece on an officer’s uniform designated a rank or special status. As one would increase in rank the colorful use of lanyards would be attached to their uniform. This can still be seen with the use of Lanyards on British uniforms; while not showing as a colorful piece they certainly dress up an otherwise dull uniform.
Lanyards played a part in the Napoleonic Wars where they were used to set off the canons from the Royal Navy ships. These types of Lanyards were called ‘firing lanyards’; which would be used at the end of the canons as a pull to fire the canon; thus the name ‘firing lanyards’. These are still used on some ships today.
Lanyards, also had their appearance among the cowboys and Indians. Lanyards would be used to create the reins for the horses that they rode. Now I am not sure if it was Tonto was the first to make one but, I am sure The Lone Ranger must have had made a fair share of these.
Lanyards have fallen into more common use within the last 20 years. They are used for security, ID badges, whistles, glasses, pictures, etc. You will find them on football fields, classroom teachers, the corporate office, the hunting grounds of Montana, the airways of the world and so many other places. Given a 24 hour period of time you would be hard pressed without seeing one person having a lanyard around their neck.
While it appears the history of Lanyards has moved from noble purposes, military, nautical etc., the legacy of Lanyards will go on for years to come.