Placing Bets

Addison V. Newton. The Saloon Keeper’s Companion, and Book of Reference. Worcester: West & Lee Game and Printing Co., 1875.

Despite sustained attacks against it, gambling remained popular throughout the 19th century, so much so that publishers such as West & Lee, a children’s toy and game company, could also profit from the pastime. In addition to “jokes and stories,” this volume contained rules for games typically played in drinking establishments such as poker, chess, and billiards. Containing an up-to-date and “complete record of sporting events,” it was no doubt used as a source to settle bar bets as well.