1922 Halloween Party Games
Dennison's Bogie Books have become quite the collectible for Halloween buffs. They are a look into life almost a century ago, full of fun party ideas that today we might have to wonder a little bit about trying out. The 1922 Bogie book has as assortment of crepe paper costumes to make, games, decorations and food suggestions. Most of the games are geared to young adults, those who are looking for dates and mates.
For instance the Cellar Stairs Test listed below, I really do not think anyone should be trying this game today. Besides how many of us even have cellar steps anymore?
From the book: Although a few new and untried games may be interspersed on Hallowe'en, the old ones that have been handed down are the very life of the celebration and must never be omitted.
The number of blows indicates the number ofyears before the wedding day. A row of candles may be used instead, with one blow; the number left lighted will tell the same story.
The action of these little craft reveals the destiny of their owners, sometimes gliding smoothing along their way together, sometimes drifting apart. To be a bachelor or maid will be the fate of the one whose candle goes out first.
Clear water in the first denotes a long and happy married life; milky water in the second, early separation; the third, alas--is empty.
For instance the Cellar Stairs Test listed below, I really do not think anyone should be trying this game today. Besides how many of us even have cellar steps anymore?
From the book: Although a few new and untried games may be interspersed on Hallowe'en, the old ones that have been handed down are the very life of the celebration and must never be omitted.
Blowing Out Candles
Blindfolded players, in turn, blow out a lighted candle.The number of blows indicates the number ofyears before the wedding day. A row of candles may be used instead, with one blow; the number left lighted will tell the same story.
A Party of Departed Spirits
Ask each guest to come as the ghost of some famous character. When all guests are assembled announce that the first game will be guessing the ghosts. Number each one, then furnish paper and pencil for the contest.Ducking for Apples
Two tubs half-filled with water are placed on opposite sides of the room. In one are placed apples with the names of boys written upon bits of paper and tied to their stems. Names of girls are similarly placed in the other tub. The game is for the players to remove the apples with their teeth, hands tied behind them. Each name appearing upon the slip is supposed to be that of the future helpmeet of the one who succeeds.
The Cellar Stairs Test
This test is for a girl and consists of backing downstairs with a mirror in her hand, trying meanwhile to see within it the face of future mate.Sailing Walnut Boats
The boats are empty half shells of English walnuts. In each is fastened a short piece of a bright-colored Christmas candle, named for some member of the party, lighted and set afloat with others in a big tub of water.The action of these little craft reveals the destiny of their owners, sometimes gliding smoothing along their way together, sometimes drifting apart. To be a bachelor or maid will be the fate of the one whose candle goes out first.
The Apple Paring Charm
The apple must be pared with the paring in one long piece. It must then be thrown over the left shoulder, whereupon it will fall into the form of the initial of the favored one.
The Three Luggies
There are three dishes placed in a row. The players are blindfolded then allowed to dip a finger in one of the dishes.Clear water in the first denotes a long and happy married life; milky water in the second, early separation; the third, alas--is empty.
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