Omnibus Stickball (Entry 1225.MK0608)
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Apr 11, 2024 Exploring the evolution of stickball from a rural pastime to an urban sport in American cities. Discussing childhood memories of playing outside and contrasting suburban versus wilderness environments. Reflecting on the decline of stickball in NYC and its impact on community dynamics. Delving into the humor of language usage and receiving a mystery package. Engaging with future listeners and encouraging Patreon support for bonus content.
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Urban Childhoods Invent Playgrounds
- Urban childhoods differ from suburban or rural ones and often involve improvised play in tight spaces.
- Ken Jennings and John Roderick recount how city kids adapted playgrounds, parking lots, and alleys into play spaces.
Stool Ball: Dairymaids' Courtship Game
- Stool ball originated in southeast England as a dairymaid pastime using milking stools and milk bowls as equipment.
- Ken describes stool ball's springtime courtship role and its relation to cricket and rounders.
Games Adapt To Urban Geography
- Stool ball and related bat-and-ball games crossed to colonial America and adapted to denser city spaces.
- As cities lacked grassy fields, these games evolved into compact street versions like stick ball.