
The history of the garden gnome dates back to the mid 19th century. Originally manufactured in Grafenroda, Germany; the gnome was based on the local folklore. Its popularity quickly spread across all parts of Europe and North America.
The traditional garden gnome manufacturing process involves pouring terracotta clay into molds until the clay is stable. The molds are then removed and allowed to dry completely, and then are fired in a kiln until they harden. Once they cool down there are painted with the familiar face and apparel that has made them famous.
Oddly enough, there are organizations that are dedicated to “liberating” the garden gnome from their captors. Some are “returned to the wild”, and some are sent on trips around the world; the latter being the inspiration for many a commercial. This practice is often referred to as “gnoming” or “gnome hunting”.