The earliest references to lanyards date from 15th century France: "lanière" was a thong or strap-on apparatus. Bosun's pipe, marlinspike, and small knives typically had a lanyard consisting of a string loop tied together with a diamond knot. It helped secure against fall and gave an extended grip over a small handle.

When did lanyards become popular?

Lanyards in the Modern Era

Lanyards have evolved throughout the times as an object of function, but in the 50's they became a popular craft as a way to teach French and American children how to tie knots.

When did lanyards become a thing?

The history of lanyards actually stretches back to the 1500s when French soldiers and pirates used them as a means to keep their weapons close at hand.