Let's Play Victorian Games at The 1879 Avery House

Welcome, young adventurers, to a time when hoops rolled, tops spun, and imaginations soared! Step into the enchanting world of Victorian childhood at The Avery House, where a treasure trove of vintage toys beckons you to join the fun.

Peek into the Toy Box:

  • Dolls with personality: Forget plastic princesses! Victorian dolls were crafted from porcelain, bisque, or even wood, each with unique expressions and hand-painted features. Some even sported real hair and elaborate clothing, ready for tea parties and grand adventures.

  • Rocking horses in motion: Gallop into a world of imagination on a hand-carved rocking horse! These majestic steeds, often adorned with real horsehair manes and tails, transported children to faraway lands with every rocking motion.

  • Building block bonanza: Spark creativity with wooden blocks of all shapes and sizes. Victorian children built towering castles, bustling towns, and fantastical creatures, limited only by their boundless imaginations.

  • Puzzles that perplex: Put your mind to the test with intricate jigsaw puzzles made from wood, cardboard, or even bone! Victorian puzzles depicted everything from historical scenes to charming landscapes, offering hours of challenging entertainment.

  • Games by the firelight: Gather around the hearth for classic games like checkers, chess, and dominoes. These timeless pastimes honed strategic thinking and provided evenings of friendly competition.

  • The great outdoors beckons: Beyond the parlor walls, Victorian children reveled in simple pleasures like hoop rolling, skipping rope, and chasing butterflies. Fresh air, sunshine, and a touch of friendly competition made for the perfect afternoon.

Timeless Treasures:

As you explore these vintage toys, remember that many of them have stood the test of time. Building blocks, puzzles, and board games, in modern iterations, continue to delight children of all ages. Even the simple joy of running through the park echoes the spirit of Victorian playtime.

So, step into the past at The Avery House and discover the magic of Victorian childhood. Let these timeless toys and games spark your imagination and remind you that the essence of play remains unchanged, even across the centuries.

Let’s Play! is included with paid admission and is on exhibit through August 2024.

The Avery House awaits your playful spirit!