In the late nineteenth century, Adirondack tourism was rising as wealthy vacationers sought luxury resorts with scenic views. A variety of activities were available to pass the time, but tennis and croquet emerged as popular pastimes in the Adirondacks. Tennis gained popularity in the 1880s and 1890s, courts were available for guests at Loon Lake House, St. Hubert’s Inn, and Childwold Park House. Croquet became fashionable earlier in the century after being introduced in England in the 1850s. Many hotels and camps had designated croquet lawns, providing guests with an easygoing recreational activity between hiking, boating, or evening entertainment. The presence of both sports speaks to the blend of rustic retreat and refined leisure that defined elite tourism in the Adirondacks during this era.
Featured Image: S.R. Stoddard (1843–1917), Tennis Court at Childwold Park, 1893, Chapman Museum 1977.218.3426
This exhibit is made possible by funds provided by the Touba Family Foundation.