The origins of the game "Jackstraws," also known as "Pick up Sticks," are unknown. The game is ancient; the simplicity of the materials made it universally popular. During the late 19th century, many game makers produced finely detailed sets of Jackstraws in which the straws were shaped like individual tools. A hooked wire allowed for picking up individual straws. Players use their hands to pick up the sticks in contemporary versions.