Yes, I was of two minds over it- and very nearly did not do this thread. Actually have a thread where Mary Lincoln ( as usual ) is accused of being one of the well-heeled pleasure seekers at Saratoga Springs exotic hotel- she had to publish a letter stating no, she was in DC. There was certainly an overlay of the uber-wealthy enjoying themselves at lavish locations dedicated to their entertainment during those years.It's all very ' iew ', still digging around on a thread. I think I was hoping perhaps the whole thing wouldn't be so awful- it's pretty awful. As you said, while soldiers are suffering, an awful lot of people with n awful lot of money were having a splendid time.
Looking into it, this seems different? While certainly we see in Godeys and Demorest's some lavish ' Skating Costumes ', seems more an escape into some community based enjoyment, leaving war behind for awhile. Most classes ( glaringly missing is one race ) seem present. In a day when artwork was hugely representational with symbols galore, seem to be carefully inserted military caps and capes. And flags.
Sorry JPK I don't see the military caps and just one flag, where it should be on the top of the cupola. I've looked at this for many years and I always assumed that it was done well after the war. I agree that its "an escape" though. At that time recreation was new. The folks who worked seven days a week, 10-12 hours a day didn't have much time or need for physical recreation.
Thanks for your posts. I always enjoy them.