Contends that, although the topic of sports and leisure seems suited for study primarily at the national level, local communities can be rich sources of information. Describes the role of sports history within the overall work of the Needham (Massachusetts) Historical Society. (CFR)

Contends that what a society does publicly to entertain itself reveals shared values. Maintains that public entertainment in Worcester (Massachusetts) prior to the War of 1812 was limited largely to Sundays, court days, and the Fourth of July. Describes changes in entertainment and social values after the War of 1812. (CFR)