Writing a rainy day
Tracking down a real 1871 parlor game to keep the chapter historically accurate
When writing historical fiction, research isn’t optional. I’ve tossed plenty of books into the CRDNF pile after an author handed a character a tool that didn’t exist yet. I was never great at history—most of it didn’t stick—but if something feels off, I stop and check. Finding out the writer didn’t bother to with research is the fastest route to a DNF.
I’m doing my best to keep all of my research for Once Upon a Time in Iowa rooted in the facts of the time. Most of my research materials were in print in 1871. Project Gutenberg and Chronicling America have been excellent resources. Then came a rainy-day problem.
They couldn’t dance in the rain all day, and eventually it drove everyone inside. Suddenly, I had to figure out what they would do on a grey afternoon. I started researching the games they would have played. That’s when I learned about the McLoughlin Brothers and their wide array of toys, books, and games.
I found that the American Antiquarian Society holds one of the largest collections of McLoughlin Bros. materials. After wandering through their online exhibits, I reached out to them for assistance, asking about a game I’d come across in my research. I was passed from one staff member to another until I finally reached someone with McLoughlin Brothers expertise.
They didn’t have the McLoughlin Bros. version, but they had a DP Ives version that he was able to provide. He sent me a PDF copy of the entire Amusing Game of Conundrums, including the instructions and answer sheet. I’ve played it a few times now between the characters and am finalizing the chapter with all the laughter a group of young people can produce. Jesse gives up a point for the chance to flirt and bring a blush to Mary Cardelia’s beautiful face.
Sadly, my email provider cleared my entire box in an update, and I lost the gentleman’s name, but I am forever grateful for his willingness to help. He gave me more authenticity than I could have hoped for.