Looking for parlour games

[Eleanor]

We are having our first Archery picnic this weekend and we have a lot of outdoor activities planned, but Mother Nature is threatening us with rain...

Rather than cancel the event, should rain appear, we hope to move inside and turn it into a luncheon with some parlour games.

Other than cards, what other indoor games were popular with adults during the Regency? Do any of you have particular favorites?

I am all eagerness to hear from you!

[The Major]

My Dear Eleanor,

Let me be of assistance. There were a number of card games that were popular, however you ask of other games that were popular. Well, there are a number of them. Some of which you will still know today. Blind Man's Bluff was played and popular, although more for parties than a luncheon. Snapdragon. Draughts, known today as checkers. Dominoes. Marbles (they weren't for just children back then). Jacks (again, not just for children). There were a number of dice games with anywhere from 2 to 6 dice (Foo is something I've played before, and yes, gentlefolk did play dice games and gentlemen when out of sight of the ladies gambled with dice ). And of course, if anyone is musically able, they would also play music, sing, and even dance (if you have the space).

I hope this helps.

Cheers,
Major