More "Bright Ideas for Entertaining"

As promised, another in a series of ideas for entertaining from my 1905 antique book: Bright Ideas for Entertaining by Mrs. Herbert B. Linscott, a.k.a, Hilda Bates Linscott...

Red, White and Blue Luncheon

"The entire color scheme of this Fourth of July luncheon must be worked out in the national colors; as far as possible the doilies used should be designed in star-shaped patterns, with a border in wash silks of interwoven red carnations and blue corn-flowers. Suspended directly over the centre of the table, a huge liberty bell should be hung, composed of red, white and blue carnations and blue corn-flowers. Descending therefrom should be ropes of red, white and blue ribbon, terminiating at the four corners of the table. The luncheon to be served should be as far as possible in the prevailing colors, the ices might be in firecracker form, and the starry banner should appear wherever it can be introduced. Draperies and pictures indicative of the occasion should be placed in conspicuous places, and do not forget a goodly supply of pyrotechnics to conclude the day. Such a luncheon will certainly commend itself to all, and most particularly to the younger element."

The author goes on to suggest a number of verses to be written on cards and passed around among the guests after they have left the table. Below are some examples which certainly must have contributed to a laughter-filled, fun occasion!

"We'd like to hear you tell today,
Some funny things that children say."

"Your talent gives us much delight,
We wish that you would please recite."

"Your part in this program to help us along
Will give us much pleasure; please sing us a song."

"Tell some joke on yourself, your wife, or your friend.
But we hope that you'll have it pleasantly end."

"Without a bit of gossip sweet,
This program would not be complete.
Be sure that whole the seasons roll,
This crown will never tell a soul."

Bright Ideas for Entertaining

Several years ago at an antiquarian book shop, I found a first edition of this book, authored by Mrs. Herbert B. Linscott, a.k.a, Hilda Bates Linscott of Ohio, and published in 1905 by the George W. Jacobs & Co. of Philadelphia. The book was based on an original publication from 1901 by Mrs. Linscott: "One Hundred Bright Ideas for Social Entertainment; Adapted to Christian Endeavor Societies, Epworth Leagues, and All Other Similar Organizations”. Many of the ideas in this little book were subsequently published in The Ladies Home Journal.






This fabulous little volume, is filled, as listed on the title page, with “two hundred forms of amusement or entertainment [games, themes, recitations, menus, decorations] for social gatherings of all kinds: larger or small parties, clubs, sociables, church entertainments, etc. with special suggestions for birthdays, wedding anniversaries, Hallowe’en, All Fools’ Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and other holidays.” The book is also an excellent commentary on the social and cultural values of the Edwardian era – a time before television, computers, movies and cell phones in which people enjoyed gathering together to engage in wholesome planned entertainment and activities.

From time to time I will be publishing some of these charming “bright ideas” in this blog…

Pie Party

The invitation to this party should be written on three-cornered papers, shaped and painted to look like pieces of pie.

Have each lady bring a different kind of pie, thus securing great variety. The refreshments should consist entirely of pies and hot coffee.

Have each gentleman present write a recipe for the kind of pie eaten by him, also telling how long it takes to bake it. A suitable prize can be given for the best recipe.

A large pie filled with bran may contain a favor for each guest, any little articles that will not be injured in the baking being suitable.