Excerpt from Hutchings, Bonner, Wyatt: An Intimate Family History

Their houses were large, -well-trained servants numerous, cooks were Only changed when decrepitude made it necessary and one or two understudies were available who had been in training for years. The social system of the planter class was in terms of we. They were gregarious in their tastes and dearly loved picnics, barbecues and dances, any excuse in' fact to get the crowd together, and nothing was easier.

At the dances every man present was expected to share his attentions among the ladies, paying especial attention to a guest from a distance, to ask the host for an introduction if that had not been attended to, and invite her to dance. To have danced more than twice in an evening with one girl, even if engaged to her, was considered rudeness to others and it subjected the offenders to criticism. It was the duty of every one to enhance the pleasure of all others present inevery way possible. Any disposition to monopolize the com pany of one, or for couples to leave the room except during an intermission, was considered bad taste. At barbecues and picnics, it was equally expected of every man to circulate among the group, to say at least a few words of greeting to every one he knew, giving particular courteous attention to the dowagers and matrons, and be introduced to newcomers. This obligation having been fulfilled, the young man was free to spend the time with the people of his own age.

Friendship and courtesy and a sincere desire to make him self agreeable to others was the spirit which animated every youth, it having been instilled into him by the precept and example of his elders.

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