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Game of forfeits
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Game of forfeits
Game of forfeits commenced with a large group of people, by spinning a wooden trencher or dish and was called turn-trencher. People seated round, when one of the party step forward and spins the trencher on the floor, someone is called upon to catch it while spinning, until the name was called by the spinner, which was seldom done until the trencher appeared ready to fall, if not caught before it fell, they would have to pay a forfeit. The women gave up their purses, necklaces and gloves the men give up their watches, pencil-cases, nay and even their hats and coats, everyones belongings piled high on the table. We knew that some kind of freemasonry existed between the lady who held up the forfeit and the lady knelt down, as if pretending not to know to whom the pledge belonged, while she passed sentence with her face buried in the lap of her laughing companion
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Media ID 14265027
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Indoor Spinning Forfeits Games Trencher
EDITORS COMMENTS
Step into the Victorian era and experience the thrill of a traditional indoor game of Forfeits, as depicted in this photograph from Mary Evans Prints Online. The large group of people huddled around a table, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of the fireplace, are engaged in a lively and spirited game of turn-trencher, also known as Game of Forfeits. The game commenced with one person stepping forward to spin a large wooden trencher or dish on the floor. The challenge for the others was to catch it while it was still spinning. The game continued until the spinner called out a name, a feat seldom achieved until the trencher was on the brink of falling. If someone failed to catch it before it hit the ground, they would have to pay a forfeit. The forfeits ranged from personal belongings such as purses, necklaces, gloves, and even hats and coats. In this image, we see a woman holding up a pledge, while another woman pretends not to know to whom it belongs, as if in on the secret. The laughter and merriment in the room suggest a sense of camaraderie and fun. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us to a time when people gathered around the fireplace on cold winter evenings to enjoy the simple pleasures of a traditional party game. The image is a reminder of the enduring appeal of games and the role they play in bringing people together, creating memories and strengthening bonds.
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