Our Past Is Present December 29, 2017

December 29, 2017

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            Playing card clubs are still in existence in Junction City.  In fact, I recently heard about a club that was looking for more Bridge players.

            Well, in January of 1898, social card clubs were very popular here.  According to articles published in the “Union” newspaper at that time, these clubs were well organized, met regularly and always included a dinner or refreshments.  A variety of card games were in vogue then.  “Progressive High Five” was mention as the game of choice played by many. This game is similar to the popular game called “Pitch”.  A “Duplicate Whist” club was formed by some of the young people in town. “Whist” was played with a partner and “tricks” are taken based on the suit designated.   

             A report told of an “A.C.E.” Club meeting in Miss Bertha Rockwell’s elegant and spacious studio. “For this gathering score cards were each differently and daintily painted in watercolors and a four-course dinner was served in elegance to complete a pleasant winter afternoon.”

            Card games remain popular either as a regular club meeting or at occasional family gatherings.  Our granddaughter likes to play “Old Maid”.  Her reaction is priceless when she places the “Old Maid” in just the right place for one of us to select the card.  When we select it, she loudly laughs with joy.  The object of the game is to NOT finish the game holding that card and she loves it when someone other than herself does so.

            Well, perhaps you and your family will have an opportunity to play your favorite card game during this holiday season and enjoy each other in a friendly game.

            Thanks for reading today and Happy New Year from the Geary County Historical Society.