Programs
by Richard McKinstry

Programs, whether they are for concerts, plays, baseball games, or other events, are used for the occasion and then routinely discarded. Thankfully, many spectators and audience members retained them as keepsakes over the years, and we now have them to enjoy as collectors. Programs from years past tell us who the stars of sport were, who played what part when, and what music was in vogue at any particular moment. Since they customarily featured advertisements, programs also offer a glimpse into popular products of the day, their prices, and how retailers promoted their sale. An afternoon or evening's entertainment that first featured a meal would undoubtedly contain a menu as part of its program. Menus provoke thought about the kinds of food that was considered appropriate for the function, as well as change in diet over the years.