Entertainment

Monopoly is one of the most played board games in the world, with the British edition first appearing in 1935. Originally called ‘The Landlord’s Game’, it was intended to be an anti-monopolist educational tool. This set, produced during the Second World War, substituted card pieces for the original metal trinkets, and a spinner for dice, as materials were in short supply.

Monopoly, c.1939-1945, Object number 4139.1

As card playing became integral to entertaining guests in the home, demand grew for ornate Chinese game counters, such as these fish, to mark winnings.

Fish game counters, c. 1750–1850, Object number MI 398-1

In the late 1960s the hi-fi began selling in large numbers. It provided a complete home audio system with a radio, record player, amplifier and stereo speakers. Norman bought this Ferguson hi-fi in 1968: its simple design allowed the whole family to use it. Norman’s son Russell even learned to play the drums after using the hi-fi to play tutorial records.

Ferguson Unit Audio Stereo System, 1968