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38 Facts About Toynbee Tiles

Evangelina Beaulieu

Written by Evangelina Beaulieu

Published: 30 Sep 2024

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Source: Wikipedia.org

Toynbee Tiles have puzzled urban explorers and curious minds for decades. These mysterious messages, embedded in asphalt across cities in the Americas, often read, "TOYNBEE IDEA IN MOViE `2001 RESURRECT DEAD ON PLANET JUPITER." Who created them? Why are they scattered in such random locations? No one knows for sure. Some believe they are the work of a single artist, while others think it's a collective effort. Theories abound, ranging from a tribute to filmmaker Stanley Kubrick to a cryptic call for resurrection. What’s the real story behind these enigmatic tiles? Join us as we uncover 38 intriguing facts about the Toynbee Tiles, shedding light on one of urban art's most captivating mysteries.

Key Takeaways:

  • Toynbee Tiles are mysterious messages found in cities, sparking theories about their meaning. They've inspired art, media, and public interest, leaving a lasting mark on urban history.
  • Despite efforts to uncover their meaning, the true creator and purpose of Toynbee Tiles remain a captivating mystery, continuing to intrigue and inspire people worldwide.
Table of Contents
01What Are Toynbee Tiles?
02Theories Behind Toynbee Tiles
03Discoveries and Investigations
04Cultural Impact of Toynbee Tiles
05Preservation and Future of Toynbee Tiles
06The Mystery Lives On

What Are Toynbee Tiles?

Toynbee Tiles are mysterious messages embedded in asphalt across cities in the Americas. These tiles have puzzled and intrigued people for decades. Here are some fascinating facts about them.

  1. Origin: The first known Toynbee Tile appeared in Philadelphia in the early 1980s.

  2. Material: They are made from linoleum and asphalt crack-filling compound.

  3. Message: Most tiles bear a cryptic message: "Toynbee idea in movie 2001 resurrect dead on planet Jupiter."

  4. Size: Typically, they measure around 6 inches by 12 inches.

  5. Creator: The identity of the creator remains unknown, though some suspect a man named James Morasco.

  6. Spread: Tiles have been found in over 20 major cities, including New York, Chicago, and Buenos Aires.

  7. Longevity: Despite being in the street, many tiles have lasted for decades.

  8. Installation: They are believed to be installed by dropping them from moving vehicles.

Theories Behind Toynbee Tiles

The cryptic nature of the tiles has led to numerous theories about their meaning and purpose. Here are some of the most popular ones.

  1. Stanley Kubrick Connection: Some believe the tiles reference Stanley Kubrick's film "2001: A Space Odyssey."

  2. Arnold Toynbee: Others think they refer to historian Arnold Toynbee's ideas about resurrection and human progress.

  3. Extraterrestrial Life: A theory suggests the tiles hint at life on Jupiter.

  4. Art Project: Some see them as a long-term, anonymous art project.

  5. Mental Illness: Another theory posits the creator might suffer from delusions or mental illness.

  6. Political Statement: Some believe the tiles are a form of political protest.

  7. Urban Legend: They have become a part of urban folklore, with various myths surrounding their origin.

Discoveries and Investigations

Over the years, many have tried to uncover the truth behind Toynbee Tiles. Here are some key discoveries and investigations.

  1. Documentary: In 2011, a documentary titled "Resurrect Dead: The Mystery of the Toynbee Tiles" was released.

  2. Justin Duerr: Artist Justin Duerr has spent years researching the tiles and is featured in the documentary.

  3. Clues: Some tiles contain additional messages, offering clues about the creator.

  4. House of Hades: Some tiles reference a group called the "House of Hades," though its existence is unconfirmed.

  5. Internet Forums: Online communities have formed to discuss and investigate the tiles.

  6. Media Coverage: Various news outlets have covered the mystery, bringing it to a wider audience.

  7. Public Interest: The tiles have sparked public interest and inspired many to search for them.

Cultural Impact of Toynbee Tiles

The Toynbee Tiles have left a significant mark on popular culture. Here are some ways they have influenced art, media, and society.

  1. Street Art: They are considered an early form of street art.

  2. Inspiration: The tiles have inspired other artists to create similar works.

  3. Books: Several books mention or are inspired by the tiles.

  4. Music: Some musicians have referenced the tiles in their songs.

  5. Film: The mystery has been featured in various films and TV shows.

  6. Merchandise: Toynbee Tile-themed merchandise, like T-shirts and posters, is available.

  7. Tours: Some cities offer tours to see the tiles.

Preservation and Future of Toynbee Tiles

As time passes, the future of Toynbee Tiles remains uncertain. Here are some facts about their preservation and what might come next.

  1. Restoration: Efforts have been made to restore damaged tiles.

  2. Removal: Some tiles have been removed during road repairs.

  3. New Tiles: New tiles continue to appear, suggesting the creator or copycats are still active.

  4. Digital Archive: Websites and digital archives document the tiles' locations and conditions.

  5. Legal Issues: The legality of installing the tiles remains unclear.

  6. Public Awareness: Increased awareness has led to more people spotting and documenting the tiles.

  7. Art Exhibits: Some tiles have been featured in art exhibits.

  8. Legacy: The tiles have cemented their place in urban history.

  9. Mystery: Despite all the research, the true meaning and creator of the Toynbee Tiles remain a mystery.

The Mystery Lives On

Toynbee Tiles remain one of the most intriguing urban mysteries. Despite numerous theories, the identity of the creator and the true meaning behind these tiles still elude us. Some believe the messages are linked to a 1983 movie, others think they reference historian Arnold J. Toynbee's ideas. What’s clear is that these tiles have sparked curiosity and debate for decades.

Their cryptic messages, often found embedded in busy city streets, continue to captivate those who stumble upon them. Whether you see them as art, a puzzle, or a message from another world, Toynbee Tiles have left a lasting mark on urban culture.

Next time you’re walking through a city, keep an eye on the pavement. You might just spot one of these mysterious tiles and become part of the ongoing quest to uncover their secrets. The mystery lives on, inviting us all to wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Toynbee Tiles?
Toynbee Tiles are mysterious plaques found embedded in asphalt streets across about two dozen major cities in the United States and a few South American locations. These tiles typically bear cryptic messages referencing British historian Arnold J. Toynbee, with the most common inscription reading, "TOYNBEE IDEA IN MOVIE `2001 RESURRECT DEAD ON PLANET JUPITER."
Who created the Toynbee Tiles?
The creator of the Toynbee Tiles remains unknown, though several theories and investigations have pointed towards a reclusive Philadelphian named Severino "Sevy" Verna as a possible artist. Despite extensive research and a documentary on the subject, the true identity of the tiler is still a matter of speculation.
How old are the Toynbee Tiles?
The first sightings of Toynbee Tiles date back to the early 1980s. Since then, hundreds have been discovered, with new tiles continuing to appear, suggesting the practice has been ongoing for at least four decades.
How are Toynbee Tiles made?
These tiles are typically made from layers of linoleum and asphalt crack-filling compound. Creators cut out letters from the linoleum, arrange them into the cryptic messages, and then seal the ensemble with tar paper. Over time, traffic and weather wear away the paper, revealing the message.
Why do people find Toynbee Tiles fascinating?
Their mysterious origins, cryptic messages, and the guerrilla art aspect of their installation captivate many. The tiles raise questions about space, resurrection, and the power of ideas, sparking curiosity and intrigue among those who encounter them.
Where can you find Toynbee Tiles?
While primarily found in Philadelphia, where they are most densely concentrated, these tiles have been spotted in over two dozen cities across the United States, including New York, Chicago, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C., as well as international locations like Buenos Aires.
Are Toynbee Tiles being preserved?
Efforts to preserve Toynbee Tiles vary by location. Some cities view them as vandalism and pave over them, while others see them as street art worth preserving. Enthusiasts and historians often document their locations and conditions to keep the phenomenon alive.
Can new Toynbee Tiles still appear?
Yes, new Toynbee Tiles have been discovered in recent years, indicating that either the original artist or inspired individuals continue to create and install them. Each new tile adds another layer to the ongoing mystery and allure surrounding these urban artifacts.

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