Baseball played a much larger role in American life in the 1920s than it does today. Many businesses and towns had their own teams, and competition between these local teams was keen. Some businesses also encouraged staff participation in company bands and orchestras. Such activities were intended to promote staff morale. Horse racing at Charter Oak Park, tennis, golf, track and polo were also popular. Theatrical performances took place at the Parsons Theater and several splendid movie houses reflected the growing popularity of motion pictures.

Ref. # 1995.36.298

Ref. # 1995.36.416

Gas station with baseball team.
Ref. # 1995.36.794

The identity of the orchestra and the setting are unknown, but presumably the theatre is somewhere in the greater Hartford region, since all of Dudley's documented photographs depict this area. The elaborate architectural stage set appears to be a painted backdrop.
Ref. # 1995.36.497