Before TV Series - 1700s

Awakenings from Then 'til Now steps back in time across five centuries (1600s to 21st century) exploring events that define who we are as a nation and a people. Times were much different back in the day, some say better. Simpler maybe, but debatable whether actually better. Life was harsh without the amenities enjoyed today. One aspect that evolved, rather than being invented by one single individual, is television...the boob tube, idiot box, the tube, the telly, TV! By whatever name it is called one fact remains: The TV without a doubt has taken over the home since its inception. 

What games did children play before TV? Here is a glimpse. . .

In many cases, the toys of the 18th century were not much different from the toys of today. Modern day toys are based in part or entirely on popular toys from the 1700s. Their composition may be different but basic designs have changed very little. Modernization dominated by electronic devices and video games has replaced the more simple toys, which in the 1700s were primarily crafted by hand.

Before TV: Eighteenth Century

Life was hard for children in the eighteenth century.
Most did not go to school since work was needed to help the family.
However, children did have time to enjoy playing games,
some of which laid the framework for sports and activities
that are widespread today.

Tough cloth balls made from canvas

Met their match with a stick for a bat

Worn and ragged from countless games

The balls resembled a tattered hat

Favorite childhood wily amusements

Engaged the cup and ball family

Swinging a wooden ball into the cup

Not as simple as it seemed to be

  

Blocks skillfully hand-tooled out of wood

Challenged the creative inventive mind

From stacking a tower to building a bridge

Imagination left nothing behind

 Adorable stuffed cotton cloth dolls

Revealed a strong affection of the heart

Made of scraps from Mama’s sewing box

Innumerable hugs did they impart

Timeless, popular, exciting beyond words

Declared the hand-carved rocking horse

Spanning generation upon generation

Nothing could alter its due course
 

Sticks and stones provided hours of fun

From marbles to jacks to pick-up sticks

No greater joy than being outdoors
Rolling, bowling, and trundling hoop tricks 

That's the way it was
Way back in the day
Want to join in on the fun?
Step outside and play!

©2013 Awakenings
Sharla Lee Shults