Oddments about Christmas

[petal]

Odd Christmas games in Victorian times:

Flapdragon:

A candle is lit and put into a can of cider. Attemps were then made to drink the cider while the candle was burning !!!

Brother I'm Bobbed !!:

Those unfamiliar with the game were sent out of the room. Three chairs were then placed in the centre of the room, two end ones occupied by people 'in the know'. The other player was then called back into the room to sit in the vacant chair and a cloth put over his head and his colleagues. He was then struck on the head repeatedly and had to guess who was doing the 'bobbing'. The assumption by the 'victim' was that the two either side were getting the same treatment..........in fact, they were the one's doing the 'bobbing' !! It would take time for the player to guess !
After this experience he may be asked to 'blow out a candle' while blindfolded and directed three steps to the right, left, backwards, forwards etc.

Grabbing the Raisin

Raisins were soaked in flaming Brandy and the idea was to stick your hand in and grab as many as you could.

(I think Health and Safety would have a lot to say if these sort of 'games' were played now !)

DIY Presents:

Picture easel made from the lid of a disused box.

Slipper shaped holder for a feather broom made from cardboard covered with material.

Pen wiper made of black cloth pleated into a bell shape and decorated with silk.

Horn shape made from cardboard and decorated to hang above a bed. This was meant to hold a small vase of flowers.................wouldn't like to have tried that !