The Past Participle: A Look Back at Skateboarding's Unfiltered Era

Skateboarding in the 1980s and early 1990s was more than just a pastime; it was a form of rebellion, a culture thriving outside the mainstream. Before skateboarding became a global phenomenon with superstar athletes and televised competitions, it was a raw, authentic movement, and this unique period is captured perfectly by a blog and Instagram account called “The Past Participle”. These platforms offer a window into skateboarding’s unfiltered past through a collection of unedited photos.

Table of Contents

Skateboarding’s Rebellious Beginnings

In the pre-X Games era, skateboarding was the domain of misfits and rebels. “The Past Participle,” with its Instagram account boasting over 30,000 followers, transports us back to this time. The blog and photos serve as a time capsule, showcasing skateboarding as an act of defiance against societal norms. It was a time when simply being a skater meant standing apart from the crowd.

A Collaborative Historical Archive

What makes “The Past Participle” truly special is its community-driven approach. Skaters and skateboarding enthusiasts from around the world contribute their personal photos and memories, transforming the Instagram account into a living, breathing archive of skateboarding history. It’s more than just a gallery; it’s a shared space for preserving and celebrating the roots of skate culture.

Screenshot of The Past Participle Instagram account showing various old skateboarding photos

The Curator’s Journey and Dedication

The anonymous curator behind “The Past Participle” took a break from the project due to the overwhelming nature of social media, but has since returned with a renewed sense of purpose. Their focus is clear: to share valuable glimpses of skateboarding’s past while maintaining a healthy perspective on the digital world’s influence. This mindful approach allows the content to remain genuine and engaging.

Remembering a Brother and a Legend

The collection includes a touching tribute from a follower who recalls how their brother, Randy, was inspired by a TV show to create homemade skateboards. This sparked a lifelong passion for skateboarding, embodying the DIY spirit that was so prevalent during those early days.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Past Participle (@thepastparticiple)

Equally poignant is the curator’s personal reflection on the death of Jeff Grosso, a skateboarding icon. A skateboard deck falling off the wall the day Grosso passed away added a surreal and moving element to his memory, highlighting the deep emotional connections within the skateboarding community.

The Raw Essence of Skateboarding

The strength of these photos lies in their unpolished nature. They don’t just capture skaters performing tricks; they capture moments of raw emotion, freedom, and joy found on the fringes of society. Each photo is a story, a testament to the rebellious spirit of early skateboarding.

Screenshot of The Past Participle blog featuring a quote about skateboarding&#039;s impact on freedom

Skateboarding in the ‘80s never made you popular, which was great, because it taught me a good life-lesson: “Once you ruin your reputation, you can live with total freedom.”

The Past Participle

From Underground to Global Phenomenon

Today, skateboarding has achieved widespread recognition, finding its place in sports, art, and popular culture. “The Past Participle” showcases this journey from the underground to the mainstream, reminding us of the authenticity and rebellious spirit that defines the sport’s roots.

Celebrating Skateboarding’s Enduring Spirit

This curated collection of photos and stories is not just a nostalgic look back; it’s a celebration of skateboarding’s core values. From the curator’s insights to the heartfelt personal tributes, it pays homage to the profound impact that skateboarding has had on individuals and society.

“The Past Participle” serves as a rich tapestry of skateboarding history, with each image and narrative weaving together a story of rebellion, community, and an unwavering pursuit of passion. It’s a must-see for any skater or anyone interested in the history of this unique subculture.