Leisure as contested terrain in late nineteenth century Halifax

Abstract

Leisure as contested terrain in late nineteenth century Halifax contends that during this era the birth, development, and shaping of various leisure pursuits involved power struggles between loosely defined groups at all levels on the social scale. Wealth and social prominence did not assure control. Reformers intent upon improving the morals of slum dwellers often failed in their attempts to "civilize" the masses through the regulation of leisure activities.

This thesis is comprised of three chapters. Chapter one, "Theatre", depicts how over the course of five decades theatre proved to be enduring culture, even though beneath its roof class battles raged. The bourgeois sought to use it as a form of social control and instruction while the working class ardently fought to shape this aspect of their cultural life. Chapter two, "Sport", clarifies how certain sports were shaped in class ways according to the needs of different groups, but also argues that sport as a unifying enthusiasm often transcended class, ethnic, and gender boundaries. Chapter three, "Recreational Spaces", examines divisions along class, gender, ethnic, and racial lines on grounds like gardens and parks, in events like fairs and exhibitions, and in institutions like libraries and museums.

Just as Halifax was never classless, nor was any class powerless in the production of leisure culture in the life of 19th century Halifax.