Most Americans in the nineteenth century lived relatively isolated lives in the country and had limited opportunities to see sporting events. Farm families found enjoyment in periodic trips to town, but for the most part they found their amusements close to home. Unless distance precluded visits, Americans dropped in on one another with great frequency. Women's diaries often record nearly daily visits from friends for tea, to help with projects, or just to sit and chat. During the Civil War women would get together to knit and sew for soldiers, write letters, or roll bandages.

The Parlor Table.

In many homes the center table in the parlor, where family or neighbors would spend time together in the evening, was the spiritual and moral heart of the home. Family members would read to one another, sew, or talk. Their games included musical chairs and the...