Croquet in the Lou

We had a wonderful afternoon in Tower Grove Park on October 11, 2025, at Croquet in the Lou! This FUNdraiser brought together friends, laughter, and lively croquet matches—all in support of the Field House Museum. Thanks to your participation and generosity, we were able to provide essential support for the Museum’s mission, helping us create dynamic programs and exhibitions while maintaining the integrity of the National Historic Landmark Field family home.

The game of croquet was first referenced in print in London in 1856 but is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages. Rules include hitting a wooden ball with a mallet through a hoop or “wicket.” Eugene Field was undoubtedly familiar with the game (and its reputation for being intensely competitive) as he mentions croquet in The Tribune Primer:

The Game of Croquet

Here we have a game of croquet.
Henry has just Hit Nellie with a mallet, and Nellie is calling Henry naughty Names.
Their mother is not much of a Croquet player, but in a minute she will Come out and Beat them Both.

Thank you to our donors