Board games were quite
popular in earlier times, and much simpler than today’s electronic games
obsessions.
It is interesting that in centuries prior
to the 19th and 20th centuries, games were considered
instruments of the devil. The later
periods were full of society changes which included the traumas of war, new
immigrants coming to the country and an industrial revolution. With all these transitions, board games were
now viewed as a way to educate, entertain and even live out dreams, whether it
be striking it rich or traveling the world.
Games of chance or fortune telling were
popular and during these years, few games were actually based on strategy or
skill. Conversation games evolved during
the Victorian Era and provided a venue for people of the opposite sex to interact
and develop relationships.
Several early board games that I
purchased in a collection were made by Mc Loughlin Brothers who produced games
from 1858 – 1920. Many of their games
focused on children’s education or moral lessons and all are known for their
detailed and colorful artwork.
Some of the games for sale at Vintage Gal
Antiques include:
The District Messenger Boy game- McLoughlin Bros.-- c1886. The object of the game is to see which player
will first become the President of the Telegraph Company. Spaces reflecting misbehavior direct a player
to go back, or sometimes go to prison which requires a return to “Start” upon
release.
Please call or email for price.
The Game of Hide and Seek-McLoughlin Bros.-- c1895. This is an extremely rare board game and quite large, measuring 15 1/2" x 22". The
graphics are very intricate and colorful.
A page from an early McLoughlin Brothers catalog describes the Hide and Seek Game as "simple and lively for small players."
Please call or email for price.
Ally Sloper – circa 1907. Milton Bradley produced this target game and
used the name “Ally Sloper” which was one of the earliest known comic
characters, dating from 1867. The clown
image on the game doesn’t resemble the official comic character, but perhaps
Bradley wanted to capitalize on a once funny name.
Please call or email for price.
There are many more early 19th and 20th century toys and games available for sale at Vintage Gal Antiques. Please stop by and check out the unique selection!
