Garden gnomes have recently been popularized by the Travelocity "Roaming Gnome". However, the garden gnomes have been around for centuries.

The first garden gnomes were made in the German town of Graefenroda by Phillip Griebel back in the mid-1800s. Griebel made the terracotta decorations as a way for people to enjoy the stories of gnomes (especially the gnomes' willingness to help in the garden at night). The popularity of the garden gnome quickly spread from Germany into France and England.

The first garden gnomes were introduced to the UK in 1847 by Sir Charles Isham, when he brought these terracotta figures back from Germany and placed them as ornaments in the gardens of his home in Northamptonshire.

The popularity of garden gnomes spawned the rise of numerous gnome manufacturers across Germany, with each manufacturer developing their own particular style of design.

Traditional gnomes are made from terracotta clay slurry poured into molds. The gnome is removed from the mold, allowed to dry, and then fired in a kiln until it is hard. Once cooled, the gnome is painted to the level of detail desired (and sent off to work in someone's garden). Modern gnomes are made from resins and similar materials rather than terracotta.

Note: Griebel's descendants still make garden gnomes today and are the last German producers. Most gnome production has moved to Poland or China.

Let's face it. Not everyone likes gnomes. In fact, they are often the target of pranks. People have been known to return gnomes back "to the wild". Some kidnapped garden gnomes have been sent on trips around the world (i.e., this became the basis for Travelocity's "Roaming Gnome").

Due to the recent rise of pranks against gnomes, an international database of missing gnomes was created. The site, Gnomes Wihtout Homes, allows people to post photos and information that might lead to the return of missing or abducted gnomes.

There is also a site, Gnome Watch, set up to track the disappearance of Travelocity's famous "Roaming Gnome".

Aaron Jr. Garden Gnome Sleeping

Andrew the Traveling Garden Gnome

Al and Anita Garden Gnomes Sitting on a Bench

Bradley the Garden Gnome in the Tub

Dale the Garden Gnome with Wind Chimes

Derek the Garden Gnome with Water Pump

Phillip the Garden Gnome with Flute

Check out more gnomes here.