Croquet Anyone?

FREE Friday game night – September 18, 2020 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Learn everything you would want to know about the game Croquet. The Historic District Commission has been collecting used croquet sets to have a fall family tourney at Cranberry Lake Farm. Learn the game, how to place the wickets, strategies, earning extra shots, and how to score. Croquet parties became more than a leisurely activity with the formation of professional clubs and tournaments – and even competitions in the 1900 Olympics. Today however, many play an informal backyard game on bumpy lawns with nine wickets.

This is a free, outdoor family program, yet registration is required so we know how many croquet sets to have on hand, and if you have your own set, even better. Join in if you would like to watch others play, learn the game, and listen to some music by The Olde Michigan Ruffwater Stringband with Glen and Judi Morningstar and Rosemary Kornacki. You may know the band from our annual Square Dances. To reserve your spot, please contact the Historic District Commission office 248-608-6807 or email bbarber@oaklandtownship.org. We will be following social distancing and only taking registrations so we know how many people are attending. Sadly, we will need to cancel if it is raining.

This antique croquet set was handmade by Elmer Remer, who was born in Dec. 1908 and he made in the 1920s or 1930s. This set is on loan from Debbie Remer and will be on display. Several origins of Croquet lay claim to the vert first game, with the French playing in the 1600s called “paille-maille” latin for “ball and mallet.” Ireland called the game “crooky” and in 1852 introduced to England where the game became the primary social and recreational activity of the British.

RSVP as registration is required.