5 Outdoor Games From History
As you're exploring the great outdoors and enjoying hard-fought Crossbones® games with family and friends, just remember - you're actually following in the footsteps of history and your early ancestors.
Since our very first days on this planet, humans have been trying to out play and out skill their foes, friends and family.
Historic paintings and writings show that ancient cultures across the globe placed a high value on games and play. And not just for fun, relaxation and enjoyment, either. Traits like accuracy and coordination didn't just bag bragging rights. They meant the difference between surviving or perishing in harsh, hostile and unforgiving environments – and securing shelter, clothes and food.
As you plan this weekend's 'battle of the bones', we thought we'd share five throwing games from history.
If you give any of them a try - particularly Kottabos - we'd love to hear about it 🙂
Outdoor Throwing Games From History
Loggits
In this Tudor England game, players take turns to throw sticks at another pushed in the ground. The stick closest to the target wins. Loggits was banned by King Henry VIII, who feared it would distract soldiers from their military responsibilities. (1)
Kee’an
An indigenous game from North Queensland to develop hunting skills, Kee’an used a large animal bone tied to twine. The bone is thrown over a net before landing in a hole or pit. (2)
Corn Cob
From New Mexico, players throw two stones at a corn cob standing on a large flat stone. If the cob is knocked over, and the pebble bounces back towards the thrower, a point is scored. (3)
Gorodki
Gorodki is a Russian game created by peasant farmers. Using a one-metre stick, players must knock over five pins 13 metres away. The player who smashes the pins out of the playing zone in the fewest throws wins. The game is still played today - and even President Putin has been spotted getting his Gorodki on!
Kottabos
One for the adults! Very popular in ancient Greece, Kottabos players take turns to pitch the last mouthful of wine in their glass at a target, usually a plate held by a small statue. If you knock the plate to the ground while chanting the name of your sweetheart, you win. Ain’t love grand!
PS - two helpful hints based on painful experience. Set up the Kottabos playing area away from the washing line. Have a pressure cleaner on standby!
